EP3049583A1

EP3049583A1 - Equipment for forming surfaces, method of manufacture and use of the equipment for forming surfaces and mobile unit including the equipment for forming surfaces

Info

Publication number: EP3049583A1
Application number: EP14848811.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jocelyn LANDRY; Martin COULOMBE
Original assignee: 9277-9347 Quebec Inc
Current assignee: 9277-9347 Quebec Inc
Priority date: 2013-09-26
Filing date: 2014-09-26
Publication date: 2016-08-03
Anticipated expiration: 2034-09-26
Also published as: US20190010676A1; EP3049583A4; CA2925072C; JP6523300B2; EP3049583C0; CA2925072A1; US20160251825A1; CN105849337B; EP4303364A3; US11072907B2; EP3049583B1; CN105849337A; CA3114364C; EP4303364A2; CN110080320A; CN110080320B; JP2016536494A; CA3114364A1; US10267015B2; WO2015042716A1

Abstract

This invention relates to a piece of equipment for forming surfaces comprising a blade including an arm; and an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to said blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit. It further relates to a piece of equipment for forming surfaces comprising a blade including an arm; and at least one lateral wing pivotably connected to one end of the main section, whereby said at least one lateral wing is configurable in a folded configuration and at least one folded position. The forming equipment may include a knife secured to the arm close to the lower surface.

Description

SURFACE FORMING EQUIPMENT, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING

AND USE OF SURFACE FORMING EQUIPMENT AND MOBILE UNIT INCLUDING SURFACE FORMING EQUIPMENT

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to equipment designed for forming surfaces. It also relates to a method of manufacturing equipment designed for forming surfaces, the use thereof and the assembly of said equipment to mobile units.

Technological background

Equipment (devices or devices) for surface forming, such as floor coverings made of granular or liquid materials (eg liquid concrete), currently used in industry and available on the market, are presented in many ways. and different forms. Some equipment has been designed for an application specifically for surface forming such as leveling. Other equipment commonly used for forming surfaces has not been designed for this application but is still used for this purpose.

Surface forming includes activities in which granular materials such as earth, sand, gravel, fine rock, stone dust, mulch, crushed stone, recycled asphalt, Liquid concrete and other granular or liquid substrates, such as concrete, resting on the ground, are moved to create a desired surface profile. Surface forming includes the leveling of the soil during which the soil is leveled. Surface forming may also include moving the granular material to create an embankment, embankment, etc. Surface forming is frequently carried out in landscaping, public works, agricultural work and industrial work.

Many "leveling blade" manufacturers supply the market for surface forming equipment. Of these, Caterpillar, Kubota, John Deere, Yanmar, Bobcat and others are supplying the market with substantially straight and flat blades that can be mounted at the front or rear of a motorized unit (or motorized vehicle). ), as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2013/0000929 published on 3 January 2013 and in German document no. DE3608893 published September 24, 1987. However, these are primarily designed to grow granular material rather than leveling a piece of land. In some situations, they may tend to tilt forward and thus sting in the ground. There are also leveling platforms or other leveling units that are mounted at the rear of a motorized unit, such as that described in US Pat.

-l- 3,901,618 published August 26, 1975. However, it is impossible to use these to push granular material effectively.

There are also devices designed specifically for surface leveling or moving granular material. However, these are generally less versatile and / or with relatively low forward speeds.

The desired surface forming equipment must be adaptable to mobile units and must have at least one of the following properties:

1. Compactness;

2. High efficiency, including constant efficiency even when employed with a relatively high speed of movement;

3. Great maneuverability;

4. A great versatility in the diversity of the development works of the

landscape;

5. Small footprint in operation and / or storage and / or transportation; 6. A limited number of component parts;

7. Durability without premature wear despite conditions of use

generally difficult (including inclement weather, intense abrasion, impacts, etc.);

8. An ease of assembly of the component parts of the equipment; and

9. A competitive cost.

In view of what has been mentioned above, there is therefore a need for surface forming equipment which is capable of overcoming or at least minimizing at least one disadvantage of the prior art.

Summary of the invention

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide adaptable surface forming equipment on mobile units, such as those of the track type (especially compact loader type skidsteer) working in the field of work public, agricultural and / or industrial, the equipment being devoid of at least one of the disadvantages of the equipment of the prior art.The mobile units include motorized units such as those intended for leveling operations.

In a general aspect, the invention relates to surface forming equipment comprising: a blade including a closed profile beam having the shape of an elongated geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis and defining an interior volume therebetween; and an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit.

In one embodiment, the beam comprises a lower surface and the blade comprises a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being contact with a surface to be formed when using surface forming equipment. The beam may include a front surface and a back surface and the knife extends beyond the bottom surface of the beam at the front surface and the rear surface. The knife may extend beyond the bottom surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife protrudes at least ½ inch from the bottom surface of the beam. The knife can completely cover the bottom surface of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam. The knife may have a beveled flange along the longitudinal axis. The beveled edge may form an acute angle, the edge protrudes outwardly of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife has a thickness between 3/8 inch and 1 inch. The knife may have a substantially planar lower surface. The knife can be made of a material with high abrasion resistance. In one embodiment, the knife has a thickness less than the height of the beam. The knife may include a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

In one embodiment, the attachment structure is configured to attach the blade to the front of the mobile unit.

In one embodiment, the attachment structure comprises two arms, engaged to each other at their proximal end and spaced from each other at their distal end.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment includes a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to the blade. a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment. The pivoting assembly of the blade is pivotable about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis and substantially perpendicular to it, spaced behind the longitudinal axis. ci, and substantially vertical. The pivot assembly may include a rotating platen system including a first platen, fixedly mounted to the blade and extending rearwardly therefrom, a support surface at the proximal end of the platen structure. attachment, and at least one secure securing piece to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the minus a securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the rotating plate system. The support surface may comprise an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure. The at least one security piece may comprise two secured arches on the support surface. The pivot assembly may comprise at least one actuator. For example, the assembly of pivoting may comprise at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis of the blade. Each of the two actuators may include a jack having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade. The jack may include a single acting cylinder.

In one embodiment, the interior volume defined within the beam is substantially empty. The beam may include an internal reinforcing structure including at least one reinforcing rib extending in the interior volume between two of the at least three surfaces. In one embodiment, the beam has a length of at least seven times greater than its height and whose depth is less than its height. In one embodiment, the beam has a width varying between 2 inches and 12 inches. In one embodiment, the beam has at least six surfaces. The beam may comprise at least two side surfaces. In one embodiment, the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and at least one of the front and rear surfaces is concave. In one embodiment, the beam includes a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the blade includes a main section and at least one side wing pivotally connected to one end of the main section. The at least one side wing may include two side wings, each of which is pivotally connected to a respective end of the main section. The at least one side wing may have a length less than half the length of the main section along the longitudinal axis. The at least one side wing may comprise a pivoting assembly of the wing mounted at one end of the main section, in an upper portion of the beam. The wing pivot assembly may include at least one actuator having a first end mounted to the main section and a second end mounted to the at least one side wing. The at least one actuator may comprise a jack, such as a double-acting cylinder.

In one embodiment, the wing pivot assembly includes: a cylindrical cavity defined in one of the main section and the at least one side wing in the respective adjacent end; at least two plates, spaced from each other, extending to the respective end of the other end of the main section and the at least one side wing; and a core inserted in the cylindrical cavity and secured to the at least two plates, the plates covering the openings of the cylindrical cavity and the at least one core being rotatable within the cylindrical cavity, a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the blade in the center of the core. In one embodiment, the pivot axis of the wing is located in the upper portion of the beam and below the upper surface of the beam.

In one embodiment, the at least one side wing pivots about a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the blade. In one embodiment, when the at least one side wing is in unfolded configuration, the bottom surface of the at least one side wing is in the same plane as the bottom surface of the main section to form a ground contact surface. keep on going.

In one embodiment, each of the at least one wing and the main section comprises a lower surface with a knife secured to the beam near the respective lower surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed at the use of the surface forming equipment, the main section knife comprising at least one of a male connector and a female connector at its lateral end and the knife of the at least one wing comprising at least one of the other of the male connector and the female connector at its end adjacent to the main section, the male and female connectors being engageable with one another in the unfolded configuration of the blade.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment includes a deflector mounted to the main section and extending substantially vertically above the upper surface of the beam.

In one embodiment, the adjacent ends of the at least one wing and the main section are inclined and of substantially complementary shape.

In another general aspect, the invention relates to surface forming equipment comprising: a blade including a beam having the shape of an elongated geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, the blade including a main section and at least one side wing pivotally connected to one end of the main section, the at least one side wing being configurable in an unfolded configuration and at least one folded position.

In one embodiment, the at least one side wing comprises two side wings, each being pivotally connected to a respective end of the main section.

In one embodiment, the at least one side wing has a length less than half the length of the main section along the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, the at least one side wing comprises a pivoting assembly of the wing mounted at one end of the main section, in an upper portion of the beam. The wing pivot assembly may include at least one actuator, such as a cylinder, having a first end mounted to the main section and a second end mounted to the at least one side wing.

In one embodiment, the wing pivot assembly includes: a cylindrical cavity defined in one of the main section and the at least one side wing in the respective adjacent end; at least two plates, spaced from each other, extending to the respective end of the other end of the main section and the at least one side wing; and a core inserted into the cylindrical cavity and secured to the at least two plates, the plates covering the openings of the cylindrical cavity and the at least one core being rotatable within the cylindrical cavity, a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the blade, in the center of the core. The pivot axis of the wing may be located in the upper part of the beam and below the upper surface of the beam.

In one embodiment, the at least one side wing pivots about a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, when the at least one side wing is in unfolded configuration, the bottom surface of the at least one side wing is in the same plane as the bottom surface of the main section to form a ground contact surface. keep on going. In one embodiment, each of the at least one side wing and the main section comprises a lower surface with a knife secured to the beam near the respective lower surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed during the operation. use of the surface forming equipment, the main section knife comprising at least one of a male connector and a female connector at its lateral end and the knife of the at least one lateral wing comprising at least one of the other of the male connector and the female connector at its end adjacent to the main section, the male and female connectors being engageable one into the other in the unfolded configuration of the blade.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment includes an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit. The attachment structure may be configured to attach the blade to the front of the mobile unit. The attachment structure may include two arms, engaged to each other at their proximal end and spaced from each other at their distal end.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment includes a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to the blade. a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment. The pivoting assembly of the blade is pivotable about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis and substantially perpendicular to it, spaced behind the longitudinal axis. ci, and substantially vertical. The pivot assembly may comprise a system of rotary plates including a first plate, mounted on the blade fixedly and extending at the rear thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the attachment structure, and at least one securing piece secured to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece about the axis pivoting the blade, aligned with the center of the rotating tray system. The support surface may comprise an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure. The at least one security piece may comprise two secured arches on the support surface. The pivot assembly may comprise at least one actuator. For example, the pivot assembly may comprise at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis of the blade. Each of the two actuators may include a jack, such as a single acting jack, having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade.

In one embodiment, the beam comprises a lower surface and the blade comprises a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment. . The beam may include a front surface and a back surface and the knife extends beyond the bottom surface of the beam at the front surface and the rear surface. The knife may extend beyond the bottom surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam. The knife may extend at least ½ inch above the bottom surface of the beam. The knife can completely cover the bottom surface of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife has a beveled edge along the longitudinal axis. For example, the beveled edge may form an acute angle, the edge protrudes outwardly of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife has a thickness between 3/8 inch and 1 inch. The knife may have a substantially planar lower surface. The knife can be made of a material with high abrasion resistance. The knife may have a thickness less than the height of the beam. The knife may include a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

In one embodiment, the beam has a length of at least seven times greater than its height and the depth is less than its height.

In one embodiment, the beam is a closed-profile beam having the shape of an elongated geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis and defining an interior volume between them. The interior volume defined inside the beam can be substantially empty. The beam may comprise an internal reinforcing structure including at least one reinforcing chord extending into the interior volume between two of the at least three surfaces. In one embodiment, the beam has a width of between 2 and 12 inches.

In one embodiment, the beam has at least six surfaces. The beam may comprise at least two side surfaces.

In one embodiment, the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and at least one of the front and rear surfaces is concave.

In one embodiment, the beam includes a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to each other.

According to another general aspect, the invention relates to a surface forming equipment comprising a blade including a closed profile beam having the shape of an elongate geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis and defining an interior volume therebetween; and a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment.

In one embodiment, the beam includes a front surface and a rear surface and the knife protrudes from the lower surface of the beam at the front surface and the rear surface. The knife may extend beyond the bottom surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam. The knife may extend at least ½ inch above the bottom surface of the beam. The knife can completely cover the bottom surface of the beam. The knife may have an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam. The knife may have a beveled flange along the longitudinal axis. The beveled edge may form an acute angle, the edge protrudes outwardly of the beam. The knife can be between 3/8 inch and 1 inch thick. The knife may have a substantially planar lower surface. The knife can be made of a material with high abrasion resistance. The knife may have a thickness less than the height of the beam. The knife may include a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment includes: an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit; and a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment. In one embodiment, the pivotal assembly of the blade pivots about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis and substantially perpendicular thereto, spaced rearwardly. of it, and substantially vertical.

In one embodiment, the pivot assembly includes a rotating platen system including a first platen, fixedly mounted to the blade and extending at the rear thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the blade. the attachment structure, and at least one secure securing piece to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the rotating plate system. The support surface may comprise an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure. The at least one security piece may comprise two secured arches on the support surface. The pivot assembly may comprise at least one actuator. For example, the pivot assembly may comprise at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis of the blade. Each of the two actuators may include a jack, such as a single acting jack, having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade.

In one embodiment, the interior volume defined within the beam is substantially empty. The beam may include an internal reinforcing structure including at least one reinforcing rib extending in the interior volume between two of the at least three surfaces. The beam may be at least seven times longer than its height and the depth is less than its height. In one embodiment, the beam has a width of between 2 and 12 inches. In one embodiment, the beam has at least six surfaces. The beam may comprise at least two side surfaces. The beam may include a front surface and a back surface and at least one of the front and rear surfaces is concave. The beam may comprise a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to each other.

In another general aspect, the invention relates to a surface forming equipment comprising: a blade including a beam having the shape of an elongate geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, the blade including a main section; an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit; and a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment. In one embodiment, the pivotal assembly of the blade pivots about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis and substantially perpendicular thereto, spaced rearwardly. of it, and substantially vertical.

In one embodiment, the pivot assembly includes a rotating platen system including a first platen, fixedly mounted to the blade and extending at the rear thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the blade. the attachment structure, and at least one secure securing piece to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the rotating plate system. The support surface may comprise an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one security piece may comprise two secured arches on the support surface.

In one embodiment, the pivot assembly comprises at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis of the blade. Each of the at least two actuators may include a jack, such as a single acting jack, having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade.

In one embodiment, the beam has a length of at least seven times greater than its height and whose depth is less than its height. The beam may have a width of between 2 and 12 inches.

The beam may comprise a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment comprises a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment. The knife may extend beyond the bottom surface of the beam. The knife may extend beyond the bottom surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam. The knife may extend at least ½ inch above the bottom surface of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife completely covers the bottom surface of the beam. In one embodiment, the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam. The knife may have a beveled flange along the longitudinal axis. The beveled edge may form an acute angle, the edge protrudes outwardly of the beam. The knife can be between 3/8 inch and 1 inch thick. The knife may have a substantially planar lower surface. The knife can be made of a material with high abrasion resistance. The knife may have a thickness less than the height of the beam. The knife may include a bottom surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

According to another general aspect, the invention relates to motorized equipment for forming surfaces comprising: a motorized unit; and surface forming equipment as described above, mounted to the motorized unit. The surface forming equipment can be removably mounted at the front of the motorized unit. In one embodiment, the motorized unit includes a ground contact surface and the lower surface of the blade of the surface forming equipment is mounted in the same plane as the ground contact surface of the motorized unit. In one embodiment, the motorized unit includes a support for receiving the surface forming equipment and the support is pivotally and controllably mounted to change the position of the blade.

According to another general aspect, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a surface forming equipment as described above.

According to another general aspect, the invention relates to the use of surface forming equipment as described above.

According to another general aspect, the invention relates to a pivoting mechanism between two components comprising: a central plate fixedly mounted to a first component; a support surface on the second component; and at least one secure securing piece on the support surface with the central plate extending between the two and preventing the disengagement of the central plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the at least one a security room.

In one embodiment, the central plate is circular in shape and has a profile in the form of "T". In one embodiment, the support surface comprises an upper plate. In one embodiment, the at least one security piece comprises two arches disposed under the support plate. In one embodiment, the mechanism comprises at least one actuator connected to the first component and the second component to enable pivoting of the central plate relative to the support surface.

In the specification, the term "beam" is used to describe an object, body or structure having an elongated geometric profile extending along a longitudinal axis. The beam can have the profile of common structural elements including "I" beams, "C" beams, "L" beams, "T" beams, tube-shaped beams with flat surfaces or curves, etc.

In the specification, the term "closed-profile beam" is used to describe an object, body or structure having an elongated geometric profile extending along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending over a longitudinal axis. along the axis

-he- longitudinal and defining an interior volume therebetween. The profile of the beam to a closed profile, according to a sectional plane perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, defines a closed figure. The beam with a closed profile has three dimensions (length, depth (or width) and height) and its geometric profile is elongated because its length is substantially greater, or larger, or significantly larger than its depth and height. The interior volume defined by the at least three surfaces can be full, semi-empty, substantially empty, or completely empty (hollow). In one embodiment, the closed-profile beam has at least five surfaces including the at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis of the beam and two side surfaces closing the ends. The ends of the beam with a closed profile can be opened or closed by a surface. In one embodiment, the elongated geometric profile has six faces (i.e., six surfaces) that may be planar, concave, or convex. In one embodiment, the beam with a closed profile has a sectional profile, along a cutting axis perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, of substantially rectangular, square, diamond, trapezoidal shape, etc. In one embodiment, the section profile of the closed profile beam is substantially trapezoidal but in which some of the surfaces have a substantially concave shape and, more particularly, the surfaces joining the ridges extending parallel with the longitudinal axis.

In embodiments where the beam is not a closed profile beam, it has at least one bottom flange and a core extending from the bottom flange. In one embodiment, the beam also has an upper flange and the core extends between the lower flange and the upper flange. The soul may have a flat or curved profile.

In the specification, the term "wing" is used to refer to a lateral section mounted laterally to a main section of the blade for blades in two or more sections.

In the specification, the term "leveling" is used to describe a surface forming activity and, more specifically, the flattening of a surface, whether level or inclined.

In the specification, the term "proximal" is used to refer to an element or component near the blade or center of the blade, while the term "distal" is used to describe an element or component distant from the blade or center of the blade (near its ends).

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 is a front and right perspective view of a surface forming equipment according to one embodiment, including two side wings configured in an unfolded (or elongated) position; Figure 2 is a front elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a rear elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a top view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 is a bottom view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a side elevational view, illustrating the right side, of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1, with the right wing in the unfolded position;

Figure 7 is a front and right perspective view of a surface forming equipment according to one embodiment, including both side wings configured in folded (or compact) position; Figure 8 is a front elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 9 is a rear elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 10 is a top view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 11 is a bottom view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 12 is a side elevational view, illustrating the left side, of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 7, with the right wing in the folded position; Fig. 13 is a perspective view from above of the surface forming equipment shown in Fig. 1 in which the beam defines an oblique angle with the direction of travel of the forming equipment when mounted to a mobile unit (not illustrated); Figure 14 is an exploded front and right perspective view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 15 includes Figures 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e, 15f and 15g which are sectional views of different implementations of a blade for the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 16 is a top view of a surface forming equipment according to another embodiment, wherein the side wings are connected to the section. main by a hinge system and in which the lateral wings are configured in folded position;

Figure 17 is a front elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 16;

Fig. 18 is a sectional view along the line A-A of Fig. 16 of the surface forming equipment shown in Fig. 16; Figure 19 is a side elevational view, illustrating the right side, of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 16, with the right wing in the folded position;

Figure 20 is a rear elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 16;

Figure 21 is a top view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 16, in which the side wings are configured in the unfolded position;

Figure 22 is a front elevational view of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 21;

Figure 23 is a side elevational view, illustrating the right side, of the surface forming equipment shown in Figure 21, with the right wing in the unfolded position; and Fig. 24 is an exploded and enlarged perspective view of the articulation system of the surface forming equipment shown in Fig. 21.

detailed description

Referring to the figures, surface forming equipment and a method of manufacturing surface forming equipment will be described.

More particularly, with reference to Figures 1 to 14, the surface forming equipment 20 comprises a generally beam-shaped blade 22 and at least one outer surface of the blade constitutes a forming surface. In one embodiment, the blade 22 includes at least one beam 26 and an outer surface of the beam 22 may constitute one or more of the forming surface (s). The forming equipment 20 is configured to be positioned and mounted at the front or rear of a mobile unit (not shown) (or motorized unit or power unit), such as, but not limited to, those of the type tracked vehicles (especially skidsteer compact loaders), tractors and bulldozers working in the field of public works, agricultural and / or industrial.

In one embodiment, the forming equipment 20 also includes an attachment structure 24 of the blade 22 connected thereto and for mounting the blade 22 to the front or rear of a mobile unit. In Figures 1 to 14, the attachment structure 24 is configured to mount the blade 22 at the front or rear of the mobile unit. It is configured to allow the indirect engagement of the blade 22 to the unit mobile. More particularly, the attachment structure 24 comprises a first end, connected to the blade 22, and a second end, engageable with the mobile unit, at the front thereof. In one embodiment, the attachment structure 24 of the blade 22 is connected to the blade 22 through a pivoting assembly of the blade 40.

In one embodiment, the blade 22, characterized by a longitudinal axis L, is configurable at a plurality of positions. In the present description, these positions are referred to the direction of travel D of the forming equipment 20 while it is pushed or pulled in a rectilinear direction by a mobile unit, that is to say without performing any turns. In a first position, referred to as the "right position", the longitudinal axis L of the blade 22 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement D of the equipment 20. In a second position, referred to as "tilted position The blade 22 is pivoted, forwards or backwards, relative to an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the blade 22 while the blade 22 is in an upright position in a plane forming a tilt angle with the direction of movement of the equipment. In a third position, referred to as "inclined position", the longitudinal axis L of the blade 22 defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement D of the equipment. An oblique angle is defined as an angle that is not a right angle (90 °) or a multiple of a right angle. In the inclined position, it is appreciated that the inclination can be oriented to the right or left relative to the direction of movement D of the equipment. It is appreciated that combinations of positions are possible. For example and without being limiting, the blade 22 can be configured in a straight and tilted position or in an inclined and tilted position.

Referring to Figures 1 to 14, there is shown a first embodiment of the surface forming equipment 20. The surface forming equipment 20 comprises a blade 22 and an attachment structure 24 of the mounted blade 22 at the rear of the blade 22 in a substantially centered manner. The blade 22, having a longitudinal axis L, includes a beam 26 whose longitudinal axis corresponds to the longitudinal axis L of the blade 22. In the embodiment illustrated, the beam 26 is a closed profile beam and, more particularly, having an elongated geometric profile with six surfaces. The six surfaces of the beam 26 respectively include a front surface 30, a rear surface 32, opposite and spaced from the front surface 30, a bottom surface 34, extending between the front 30 and rear surfaces 32 at the lower end of the beam 26. these, an upper surface 36, opposite to the lower surface 34 and two side surfaces 37, spaced apart from each other. In some embodiments, the surface of the blade 22 in contact with the ground is not the lower surface 34. It is appreciated that, in an alternative embodiment, the beam 26 may be free from side surfaces 37 and that the beam 26 may be open at the lateral ends 37. It is also appreciated that, in an alternative embodiment, for a closed profile beam, the beam 26 may be free of upper surface 36 so that the front 30 and rear 32 surfaces have an edge upper engaged to each other (beam with three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis L). It is also appreciated that in one embodiment Alternatively, the beam 26 may include more than six surfaces. It is also appreciated that the beam 26 may be different from a closed profile beam. For example and without being limiting, the beam can have the profile of common structural elements including "I" beams, "C" beams, "L" beams, "T" beams, etc.

As mentioned above, the beam is of elongated shape, that is to say that its largest dimension is that of length. In one embodiment, the length of the beam is at least seven (7) times greater than the height of the beam. In another embodiment, the length of the beam is at least nine (9) times greater than the height of the beam. In a particular embodiment, the length of the beam is approximately eleven (1 1) times greater than the height of the beam. In one embodiment, the depth of the beam is less than its height. It is appreciated that, in an alternative embodiment, the depth of the beam is greater than its height. More particularly, in one embodiment, the depth-to-height ratio is of the order of 5/8. In addition, along the longitudinal axis of the beam, the profile thereof may be rectilinear (straight beam) or non-rectilinear (curved beam). In one embodiment, the beam may have a radius of curvature, constant or irregular, or at least one angular change along the length.

For a closed profile beam, the interior volume of the beam 26 may be solid, partially filled, or empty (or hollow). In one embodiment, in order to reduce the weight of the equipment 20, the internal volume of the beam 26 is mostly empty (or hollow) but includes a reinforcing structure. In one embodiment, the reinforcing structure comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs extending in the interior volume between two walls of the beam 26 defining two surfaces. In one embodiment, the beam 26 may be of mechanically welded and / or glued and / or bolted type. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade 22 includes a main section 22a and two side sections 22b (referred to as side wings 22b), pivotally mounted to the main section 22a at the ends thereof. Each of the main section 22a and the side wings 22b includes the front surface 30, the rear surface 32, the lower surface 34 and the upper surface 36 of the beam 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the beam 26 of each of the side wings 22b includes a lateral surface 37 at its distal end (i.e., remote from the main section 22a) and at its proximal end (i.e. adjacent to the main section 22a) while the ends of the main section 22a of the beam 26 are open. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the proximal and distal ends of the beam 26 in the side wings 22b can be opened. Also, the ends of the beam 26 in the main section 22a can be closed.

In one embodiment, the upper surface 36 at the main section 22a is shorter along the longitudinal axis L than the lower surface 34. Thus, at the main section 22a, the ends are inclined. At the side wings 22b, the beam 26 may have proximal ends that are substantially shaped complementary to the ends of the main section 22a and, particularly, which are inclined, being longer near the upper surface 36.

In one embodiment, the distal ends of the lateral wings 22b may also be inclined, for example in the same direction as the proximal ends of the lateral wings 22b. As a result, the lower edge of the distal end protrudes from the upper edge outwardly of the lateral flange 22b. It is appreciated that the inclination angles of the distal and proximal ends, defined with the lower surface of the blade 22, may be similar or different.

It is appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, the ends of the side wings 22b and / or the main section may be straight, i.e., not inclined or substantially vertical.

In an unfolded configuration of the blade 22, illustrated in Figures 1 to 6, as will be described in more detail below, each of the front surfaces 30, the rear surfaces 32, the lower surfaces 34 and the upper surfaces 36 are substantially aligned with the corresponding surface of the other sections to define substantially continuous surfaces, i.e. the corresponding surfaces of the different sections 22a, 22b are substantially in the same plane in the unfolded position.

It is appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, at least one of the front surfaces 30, rear surfaces 32, lower surfaces 34 and upper surfaces 36 may not be aligned with the corresponding surface of the other sections.

In the illustrated embodiment, the main section 22a and the lateral wings 22b of the blade 22 have substantially the same profile, for cutting along a sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The lateral wings 22b are, however, of shorter length than the main section 22a, that is to say their length along the longitudinal axis L of the blade 22. In one embodiment, the lateral wings 22b have a length less than half of the main section 22b of the blade 22. It is appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, the main section 22a and the lateral wings 22b of the blade 22 may have a different profile, for cutting along a sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L.

As mentioned above, the side wings 22b are pivotally mounted to the main section 22a of the blade 22 via a pivoting assembly of the wings 50 defining a pivot and allowing pivoting about an axis. 52. The pivot axes 52 of the lateral wings 22b extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the blade 22. In one embodiment, the pivot assemblies of the wings 50 are positioned at least above the upper section of the main section 22a of the blade 22 and substantially at the ends thereof. More particularly, they are positioned so that the pivot axis 52 extends above a median line of the beam 26, that is to say closer to the upper surface 36 than the area In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14, the pivot axis is situated above the upper surface 36 of the beam 26.

More particularly, each of the wing pivot assemblies 50 includes a hinge 54 engaged on the upper surface 36 of the main section 22a and a respective side wing 22b. The hinge 54 is secured to the main section 22a, on one side of the pivot axis 52, and to the side wing 22b, on the other side of the pivot axis 52. As shown in FIG. it will be described in more detail below, the pivoting assemblies of the wings 50 allow configuration of the side wings 22b in an unfolded position, illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6, in a maximum folded position, illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 12, and in a plurality of intermediate folded positions, lying between the unfolded position and the maximum folded position.

Although the blade 22 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14 consists of three parts (a main section 22a, which in the present embodiment is a central section, and two lateral wings 22b), it is appreciated that, in alternative embodiments, the blade 22 may include a single section and be free of side wings or the blade 22 may include a single side wing 22b, mounted on the right side or the left side of the main section 22a. In another alternative embodiment, the blade 22 may include more than two side wings 22b. In another alternative embodiment, the blade 22 may include two lateral wings 22b connected together and be devoid of main section 22a. Thus, the two side wings 22b can pivot relative to each other and be configured simultaneously or independently in the deployed position where they are in contact with the ground and the folded position where they are predominantly spaced from the ground (raised).

In addition, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6, in the unfolded position, the lateral flanges 22b are aligned with the main section 22a, along the longitudinal axis L, that is to say that a zero angle is defined between them. In an alternative embodiment, in the unfolded position, the side wings 22b may define an oblique angle with the main section 22a. In a particular embodiment, the side wings 22b may extend forward, in the opposite direction to the attachment structure 24, relative to the main section 22a.

The pivoting assembly of the wings 50 also comprises two actuators 55. An actuator 55 is associated with each of the lateral wings 22b. In the embodiment illustrated, the actuators 55 comprise two double-acting cylinders (pneumatic, electric or hydraulic). It is appreciated that the actuator may differ from the double acting (or double acting) cylinder illustrated. For example and without being limiting, the cylinder can be replaced by a rotary actuator. These have a first end mounted on the rear surface 32 of the main section 22a and a second end connected to their respective lateral flange 22b at the rear thereof. More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, the second end of the actuator 55 is connected to the distal end of the hinge 54, slightly above the upper surface 36. As mentioned above, the attachment structure 24 is connected to the blade 22 at the rear thereof. The attachment structure 24 is substantially centered with respect to the length of the blade 22, relative to its longitudinal axis L. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6, the attachment structure 24 is characterized by a general shape in " V "with two arms 38 having a proximal end (or front) connected to the blade 22 and a distal end (or rear) connectable to a mobile unit (not shown). The proximal ends of the two arms 38 are engaged to each other while the distal ends are spaced from each other. In view from above (FIGS. 4 and 10) or from below (FIGS. 5 and 11), the attachment structure 24 defines a substantially triangular profile.

The surface forming equipment 20 also includes a pivot assembly 40 of the blade 22, mounted at the proximal ends of the arms 38, and for attaching the blade 22 to the attachment structure 24 and, more particularly, to the arms 38 pivotally. More particularly, the pivot assembly 40 allows the blade 22 to pivot about a pivot axis 44 extending substantially vertically and aligned with the center of the pivot assembly 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the axis pivoting member 44 is located at the rear of the rear surface 32 of the blade 22, spaced therefrom. In one embodiment, the pivot assembly 40 includes a rotary table system 46 and the pivot axis 44 is located centrally of the rotary table system 46. The pivot assembly 40 will be described in more detail below.

In one embodiment, the attachment structure 24 is mainly metallic. For example, it can be made mainly of steel.

The attachment structure 24 also includes an attachment structure 56, which in the illustrated embodiment includes two plates 58, each securable at a distal end of one of the arms 38, as well as mechanical fasteners, such as bolts. , screws or any other suitable mechanical fastener. This attachment structure 56 allows a quick and adjustable attachment to the chassis of a mobile unit (not shown). The height of the surface forming equipment 20 relative to the mobile unit is adjusted by means of the attachment structure 24 and, more particularly, by means of the plates 58, as will be described more in details below.

The blade 22, including the main section 22a and the side wings 22b, are configured to form the floor. The front and / or rear surfaces 32 of the beam 26 may have a straight and / or concave (or hollow) profile or any other suitable profile. Different profiles of the beam 26 will be described below with reference to Figure 15. It is appreciated that the shape of the front surface 30 may differ from the shape of the rear surface 32. Also, it is appreciated that the shape of the front surface 30 of the beam 26, in the main section 22a, may differ from the shape of the front surface 30 of the beam 26 at the side wings 22b. Similarly, the shape of the rear surface 32 in the main section 22a may differ from the shape of the rear surface 32 at the side wings 22b. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14, the blade 22 also comprises a knife 42, mounted on the beam 26, close to the lower surface 34. In the embodiment illustrated and as mentioned above, the blade 22 includes a main section 22a, which in the illustrated embodiment is centrally located, and side wings 22b. The knife 42 also includes three parts: a main section, mounted to the beam 26 at the main section 22a, and two side sections, each mounted to the beam 26 at the side wings 22b. The thickness of the knife 42 is less than the thickness of the beam 26.

The knife 42 extends parallel to the lower surface 34 of the beam 26. It supports the blade 22 on the ground and therefore extends parallel thereto.

In the illustrated embodiment, the knife 42 has a substantially trapezoidal shape profile and completely covers the lower surface 34 of the beam 26. However, in an alternative embodiment (not shown), the knife 42 could be of rectangular profile or any other shape appropriate. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the knife 42 could be mounted on the periphery of the beam 26, near the lower surface 34 of the beam 26, without necessarily covering it. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the knife 42 partially covers the lower surface 34 of the beam 26.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outer edges of the knife 42 are beveled at an acute angle, the knife being wider at the ground engaging surface than at the upper surface joining the beam 26. The outer edges of the knife 42 thus define an angle with the ground and the lower surface 34 of the beam 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower edges of the knife 42 extend outwardly of the beam 26; that is, the knife 42 has an edge protruding outwardly from the beam 26 and, more particularly, from the lower surface 34 of the beam 26. In embodiments, the angles of the bevel-shaped edges vary between 20 ° and 40 °.

The knife 42 is supported on the ground, in the rest position (or non-operation) of the equipment 20. It also acts as a sliding and forming surface of the ground during the operation of the equipment 20, that is to say that the knife 42 slides on the ground during the movement of the equipment. Since the knife 42 is in contact with the granular or liquid materials during the operation, the latter is subjected to considerable friction. In one embodiment, it is made of a material with a high abrasion resistance, such as a high abrasion resistant steel. The sharpened edge of the knife 42 protruding from the beam 26 facilitates penetration into granular or liquid materials covering the ground.

In one embodiment, the knife 42 is in the form of a plate completely covering the lower surface 34 of the beam 26. Primarily, over its entire periphery, the knife 42 has a beveled edge which projects beyond the lower end of the beam 26, including at the side surfaces 37. In an embodiment where the blade 22 includes one or more side wings, the adjacent ends of the main section 22a and / or the side flange 22b may be free of beveled flange, as shown in the figures.

The knife 42 may be attached to the beam 26 by a plurality of mechanical fasteners, such as screws or bolts, or by any other suitable fastening means, such as, but not limited to, welding.

In the embodiment where the blade 22 includes a plurality of sections, the lateral ends of the side sections of the knife 42 may be provided with male-female connections, engageable with one another, in the unfolded configuration of the blade 22. More particularly, Figures 7 and 14 show that the ends of the knife 42 of the main section 26a include a depression 43 (female connection) while the proximal ends of the lateral wings 26b include a protuberance 45 (male connection), complementary to the depression 43 and engageable therein in the unfolded configuration of the respective side wing 22b. The male-female connections at the knife 42 reduce the risk of pivoting backwards or forwards of the lateral wing 22b during the operation of the equipment 22. It is appreciated that in one embodiment Alternatively, the male-female connections can be reversed on the main section 26a and the side wings 26b. It is also appreciated that the shape and configuration of the male-female type connections may vary from the illustrated embodiment.

It is appreciated that in some embodiments, the knife 42 may be free of male-female type connection.

In one embodiment, in the unfolded configuration, the side wings 22b are slightly spaced from the main section 22a.

In the folded embodiment illustrated in Figures 7 and 14, the ends of the beam 26 in the main section 22a are exposed, i.e. they are not closed. In an alternative embodiment, the ends of the beam 26 in the main section 22a can be closed by a wall, thus preventing the introduction of granular or liquid material into the interior volume of the beam 26, if it is at least partially hollow.

In one embodiment, the blade 22 has a flat bottom surface. It may be the lower surface of the knife 42 which completely covers the beam 26. It may also be the lower surface of the knife 42 which is substantially aligned with the lower surface 34 of the beam 26 which is at least partially exposed. In one embodiment, the lower surface of the blade 22 is substantially free of cavities, except for mechanical fasteners, if any.

In one embodiment, in the unfolded position of the blade 22, the lower surface of the blade 22 at the side flange 22b and the main section 22a defines a single plane, i.e. the lower surface of the blade 22 at the level of the lateral wing is substantially in the same plane as the lower surface of the blade 22 at the main section 22a.

It is appreciated that, in an alternative embodiment, the blade 22 may be knife-free 42 and that the contact surface of the blade 22 with the ground may be the lower surface 34 of the beam 26.

As mentioned above, the side wings 22b of the blade 22 are pivotally mounted to the main section 22a. More particularly, they can pivot between an unfolded position (Figures 1 to 6 and 13) and a plurality of folded positions. Figures 7 to 12 illustrate the blade 22 in one of the possible folded positions and, more particularly, in the maximum folded position. In the unfolded position, the lateral flanges 22b are aligned with the main section 22a, that is to say that the angle defined between the longitudinal axis of the main section 22a and the longitudinal axis of the lateral flanges 22b is zero . It is appreciated that although the two side wings 22b are configured in a folded position in Figures 7-12, only one of the side wings 22b can be configured in a folded position while the other side wing 22b can be configured in a unfolded position. It is also appreciated that the positions of the side wings 22b in the folded position may be different. In the present description, the folded position of a lateral flange 22b is defined by the angle defined between the longitudinal axis of the main section 22a and the longitudinal axis of said lateral flange 22b. In the maximum folded position, the lateral flanges 22bs are supported on the upper surface 36 of the main section 22a, which approximately doubles the height of the thrust surface of the blade 22. This increase in the height of the thrust surface of the Blade 22 permits the movement of a relatively large amount of granular material with equipment 20, as will be described in more detail below.

The possibility of selectively configuring the blade 22 in a plurality of folded positions and an unfolded position makes it possible to reduce the risk of structural fractures and / or frictional infrastructures. The folded position of the side wing 22b, i.e., the angle defined between the longitudinal axis of the main section 22a and the longitudinal axis of said side wing 22b, can be adjusted as required. The intermediate folded positions between the unfolded position and the maximum folded position may be useful in some applications.

In the illustrated embodiment, the surface forming equipment 20 also includes a deflector 60. The baffle 60 includes a substantially trapezoidal shaped plate extending upwardly from the upper surface 36 of the beam 26, near the junction with the front surface 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the deflector 60 is mounted only on the main section 22a. However, in an alternative embodiment, the lateral wing (s) 22b may also include a deflector. For example, without being limiting, the deflector may be mounted near the rear surface 32 of the blade 22 or the blade 22 may include two baffles: a front baffle and a rear baffle. The shape and configuration of the deflector 60 may vary from the illustrated embodiment. The baffle 60 increases the area of available equipment when thrusting a large amount of granular material.

In the maximum folded position shown in FIGS. 7 to 12 and in the folded positions approaching thereto, the lateral wings 22b provide support for the deflector 60. More particularly, the lateral wings 22b are positioned at the rear of the deflector 60 and the latter can rely on them when the displaced load is important. As a result, they reduce the possibility that the deflector 60 is bent or damaged during a surface forming operation.

Referring now to Figure 14, the pivot assembly 40 will be described in more detail. It enables the blade 22 to pivotally connect to the tip of the attachment structure 24. It defines a pivot axis 44 around which the blade 22 can pivot relative to the direction of movement D of the equipment 20. It comprises a rotating plate system 46 including a central plate 62, mounted on the blade 22 in a fixed manner, extending at the rear thereof, a support surface 64 and, more particularly, an upper plate mounted on the arms 38, at their proximal end, in a fixed manner, and two securing parts and, more particularly, arches 66a, 66b. As mentioned above, the pivot assembly 40 pivots the blade 22 between the upright position and the inclined positions and the pivot axis 44 is substantially aligned with the center of the rotary plate system 46.

In the illustrated embodiment, the central plate 62 is of substantially circular shape and has a substantially T-shaped profile. It is secured centrally on the top of the beam 26 and, more particularly, in the center of the main section 22a. The upper plate 64, also plate-shaped, is also circular. Part of it protrudes forwardly the point defined by the two arms 38. More particularly, it is secured to the lower surface of the two arms 38.

The two arches 66a, 66b are of complementary shape. They are configured and arranged to trap the center plate 62 therebetween and the top plate 64. More particularly, in the assembled configuration, the center plate 62 extends and, more particularly, is contained between the top plate 64 and the two arches 66a, 66b, with the upper plate 64 extending above the central plate 62 and the two arches 66a, 66b, extending below. More particularly, the arches 66a, 66b are secured to the upper plate 64 by means of mechanical fasteners, such as and without being limited to screws and bolts. Thus, the central plate 62 can pivot in the space defined between the upper plate 64 and the arches 66a, 66b.

In order to reduce the friction between the central plate 62, the upper plate 64 and the arches 66a, 66b during pivoting, labyrinths (not shown) as well as several lubrication nipples (not shown) are arranged symmetrically on the cavity of the system rotating plates 46. In a complementary or alternative embodiment, the surfaces in contact with the various components of the rotating plate system 46 whose central plate 62, the upper plate 64 and the arches 66a, 66b can be covered or made of a material with a low coefficient of friction to reduce friction between the components during pivoting and having a resistance to wear. For example and without being limiting, the components of the rotating plate system 46 may comprise Nylatron®.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the top plate 64 could be a part or a support surface of the "V" shaped attachment structure 24 defined by the arms 38.

The pivot assembly 40 described above provides a more stable pivoting mechanism than a simple pivot rod and also less prone to premature wear than pivot rods or an assembly including a rolling mechanism (ie rings). Thus, the pivot assembly 40 described above is appreciated for the longevity it provides. It is appreciated that, in alternative embodiments (not shown), other known pivot assemblies could be used for the equipment 20. For example and without being limiting, among known alternatives, rack and pinion assemblies, toothed ring, rod and rings could be used.

The pivot assembly 40 also comprises two actuators 41 and, more particularly, two cylinders (hydraulic, electric or pneumatic or electric). In one embodiment, the cylinders 41 are "single action" type cylinders (or single effect) ensuring a hydraulic release during thrusts exceeding the tensile capacity of the mobile unit. Thus, in one embodiment, the cylinders 41 are provided with a thrust resistance management device exerted on the blade 22 in operation. It is appreciated that the actuators 41 may differ from the cylinders.

Each of the jacks 41 is associated with one of the arms 38 of the attachment structure 24 as well as one side of the blade 22, that is to say a first jack 41 is mounted on the right side of the equipment. 20, relative to the attachment structure 24 and the pivot assembly 40, while a second cylinder 41 is mounted on the left side of the equipment 20. They have a first end mounted on one of the respective arms 38 and a second end mounted on the blade 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end of the cylinders 41 is connected to the upper surface 36 of the beam 26 at the main section 22a. These jacks 41 are selectively operable to allow the pivoting of the blade 22 to the right or to the left, relative to the direction of movement D of the equipment 20, as shown in FIG. 13. The jacks 41 are therefore operable to change the configuration of the blade 22 between the straight position and one of the inclined positions or between two inclined positions. It is appreciated that the actuators of the pivot assembly 40 may differ from the cylinders 41 illustrated. To reduce the risk of breakage and limit the sliding of the tracks or wheels of the mobile unit on the ground, an oil valve device is integrated in the hydraulic system of the cylinders 41.

It is appreciated that the pivoting assembly of the beam 40 can be used as a pivoting mechanism between two components, different from the blade 22 and the attachment structure 24. In such an embodiment, the central plate is mounted from fixed way to a first of the two components. It can be an intrinsic part of the first component. The upper plate 64 may be replaced by a support surface on the second component, which may also be a plate. Finally, one or more securing pieces, such as the hoops, are secured to the support surface with the central plate extending between the two and preventing the disengagement of the central plate. Thus, the central plate can rotate between the support surface and at least one security part. The particular features of the embodiment described above, in connection with the surface forming equipment, apply to the pivoting mechanism between two components.

In one embodiment, the pivot assembly allows the blade to be tilted up to 30 ° on each side, relative to the direction of travel D.

Referring to Fig. 12, to reduce the risk of blade rollover 22 that may be caused by positioning the pivot assembly 40 of the blade 22 in the upper section thereof, the attachment structure 24 also comprises a reinforcement 70 (or angular reinforcement), in the form of a square. This reinforcement 70 is disposed at the rear of the main section 22a, centrally to the blade 22. More particularly, it is secured to the rear surface 32 of the main section 22a and to the central plate 62. one embodiment, the reinforcement 70 extends almost to the junction between the rear surface 32 and the lower surface 34 of the beam 26, slightly above the knife 42. It allows to transfer the thrust force (or the load ) from the mobile unit (not shown) to the pivot assembly 40 and simultaneously to the lower section of the blade 22, thereby reducing the risk of overturning (or spilling). The reinforcement 70 serves as bracing between the rotating plate system 46, linking the arms 38 defining a generally V-shaped support and the main section 22a of the blade 22.

Referring to Figure 15, different profiles of the blade 22 including the beam 26 and the knife 42 will be described. It is appreciated that the profiles described above can be applied to both the main section 22a and the side wings 22b of the blade 22.

Figures 15a to 15e illustrate possible profiles for closed profile beams. In all the embodiments illustrated in Figures 15a to 15e, the beams 26 are geometric profiles having six surfaces, four surfaces 30, 32, 34 and 36 define the shape of the beam 26 in a sectional view. It is appreciated that the front and rear surfaces 30, 32 may have a straight (i.e. without curvature) or concave (i.e., hollow) profile whose radius of curvature may be constant or irregular. . In the embodiment of Figure 15a, the lower and upper surfaces 34, 36 are planar and extend substantially parallel to each other. The front and rear surfaces 30, 32 are concave in shape and are characterized by a substantially uniform radius of curvature along the respective surface 30, 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of the front surface 30 is substantially equal to the radius of curvature of the rear surface 32. The knife 42 is of substantially rectangular shape and protrudes from the front and rear surfaces 30, 32 of the beam 26. The edges of the knife 42 are at right angles.

In the embodiment of Figure 15b, the shape of the beam 26 is substantially similar to that of Figure 15a. However, the knife 42 has beveled edges that protrude from the lower surface 34 of the beam 26. More particularly, the knife 42 has a substantially trapezoidal profile and the depth of the upper surface of the knife 42 is larger than the depth of the blade. lower surface 34 of the beam 26.

In the embodiment of Figure 15c, the shape of the knife 42 and the rear surface 32 of the beam are substantially similar to that of Figure 15b. However, the front surface 30 of the beam 26 is divided into two sections: a substantially planar section in the upper section followed by a concave bottom section whose radius of curvature is substantially uniform.

In the embodiment of Figure 15d, the shape of the knife 42 is substantially similar to those of Figures 15b and 15c. However, the front and rear surfaces 30, 32 differ. The front surface 30 of the beam 26 is divided into three sections: an upper section, an intermediate section and a lower section. All sections are substantially flat. However, the upper section is prominent forward in comparison to the lower section and the two sections are oriented substantially perpendicular to the lower and upper surfaces 34, 36. The intermediate section connects the upper and lower sections. The rear surface 32 of the beam 26 is divided into two substantially planar sections: an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is oriented substantially perpendicular to the lower and upper surfaces 34, 36. The lower section extends rearwardly, i.e. the opposite side to the front surface 30.

In the embodiment of Figure 15e, the shape of the knife 42 is substantially similar to those of Figures 15b, 15c and 15d. The front surface 30 of the beam 26 is divided into two substantially planar sections: an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is oriented substantially perpendicular to the lower and upper surfaces 34, 36. The lower section extends rearwardly, i.e. towards the rear surface 32. The shape of the rear surface 32 is similar to the rear surface 32 of Figure 15d, except that the upper section is of lower height. In addition, in the embodiment of Fig. 15e, the depth of the upper surface of the knife 42 is substantially similar to the depth of the lower surface 34 of the beam 26 and only the bevelled edges extend beyond the lower surface 34 of the beam 26, forwards and backwards.

It is appreciated that many modifications to the embodiments described above can be made. In addition, combinations of different achievements can be interviewed. For example and without being limiting, the lower and upper surfaces 34, 36 may be non-planar and / or not extend substantially parallel to each other. At least one of the front and rear surfaces 30, 32 could be of convex shape. In addition, the radius of curvature of the front surface 30 may be different from the radius of curvature of the rear surface 32.

Figures 15f and 15g illustrate two possible profile embodiments for beams that are not closed profile beams. In the embodiments of Figures 115f and 15g, the shape of the knife 42 is substantially similar to those of Figures 15b, 15c, 15d and 15e.

In the embodiment of Figure 15f, the beam 26 is a mixture of a "C" beam and an "I" beam. It comprises a core 72 having a curved profile extending between a lower sole 73 and a flat sole 74 planes. The lower sole 73 extends on each side of the core 72 while the upper sole Z74 extends only forwardly, its rear end being aligned with its junction with the core 72.

In the embodiment of FIG. 15g, the beam 26 is a mixture of an "I" beam comprising a core 72 having a straight profile extending between a bottom flange 73 and a flat top 74.

It is appreciated that many modifications to the embodiments of Figures 15f and 15g described above can be made. In addition, combinations of different achievements can be interviewed. For example and without being limiting, the lower and upper flanges 73, 74 may be non-planar and / or not extend substantially parallel to each other. In addition, the cores 72 may have a curvature or be straight. Also, the beams may be free of upper sole 74.

In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 15a-15g, the thickness of the knife 42 may vary between about 3/8 inch and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the depth of the knife 42 may vary between 6 inches and 10 inches.

In one embodiment, the knife is a substantially rectangular shaped plate having beveled or straight edges. It may also be a rod mounted on the periphery of the beam 26, a series of teeth positioned side by side, inverted teeth located side by side or any other suitable form, including partially rounded profiles or completely rounded. In one embodiment, the knife 42 exceeds the beam 26 at the lower surface 34 thereof. In a particular embodiment, the knife 42 exceeds the beam 26 at the lower surface 34 at the front surface 30 and the rear surface 32.

With reference to Figures 16-24, an alternative embodiment of the surface forming equipment 20 will be described and in which the components are numbered with reference numbers which correspond to those of the previous embodiment but in the series of 100. In the embodiment of Figures 16 to 25, the majority of the components are similar to those described above with reference to Figures 1 to 14. However, the pivoting assembly of the side wings 150 differs from that described above.

More particularly, with reference to Figure 24, at the lateral ends of the main section 122b, the hinges 54 are replaced by a hinge system including a cylindrical cavity 176 defined by an outer ring 179 including a cylindrical peripheral wall. The cylindrical cavity 176 is formed in the lateral flanges 122b and the outer ring 179 extends slightly above the upper surface 136 of the lateral flange 122b and protrudes laterally from the respective proximal lateral surface. The lateral surface of the lateral flange 122b is of a shape inclined towards the lower surface 134, the upper surface 136 extending beyond the lower surface 134 at the proximal end. The ends of the main section 122a are of substantially complementary shape to the proximal end of the respective lateral wing 122b. More particularly, the lateral surface is of a shape inclined towards the upper surface 136, the lower surface 134 extending beyond the upper surface 136 at the end. At their proximal end, at the upper surface 136, the main section 122a includes two plates 178, spaced from each other, and whose shape corresponds substantially to the shape of the openings of the cylindrical cavity 176. The wall peripheral defining the cylindrical cavity 176 and the two plates 178 define the fixed components of the articulation system. When assembled, the plates 178 are disposed on a respective side of the cylindrical cavity 176 and close them.

In the cylindrical cavity 176 and between the plates 178, movable components of the articulation system are inserted. More particularly, a core 180, surrounded by an inner ring 182, is inserted into the cylindrical cavity 176. In one embodiment, the core 180 and the inner ring 182 are replaceable when worn. In an alternative embodiment, the inner ring 182 may comprise a plurality of inner ring sections disposed adjacent the periphery of the core 180. In an alternative embodiment, the hinge system may be free of ring (s) 182. For example the core 180 may be made of or be covered with a low coefficient of friction material to reduce friction between the components during pivoting and having a wear resistance. For example and without being limiting, the components of the rotating plate system 46 may comprise Nylatron®. It may also have undergone a suitable heat treatment to have a low coefficient of friction and a relatively high wear resistance. The plates 178 are secured to the core 180 and prevent the extraction of the core 180 from the cylindrical cavity 176. The inner ring 182 is made of material that promotes pivoting by reducing friction.

In one embodiment, the cylindrical cavity 176 has been formed by machining the side wing 122b. In an alternative embodiment, the peripheral wall defining the cylindrical cavity 176 may be removably attached to the lateral wings 122b. In an alternative embodiment, the cylindrical cavity 176 may be formed in the main section 122a while the lateral wings 122b may include the two plates 178.

Like the pivoting assembly of the lateral wings 50, the pivoting assembly of the lateral wings 150 comprises two actuators 155, an actuator 155 is associated with each of the lateral wings 122b. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuators 155 also include two double acting cylinders. For example and without being limiting, the cylinder can be replaced by a rotary actuator. It is appreciated that the actuators 155 may differ from the illustrated double action cylinder. These have a first end mounted on the upper surface of the beam 126 at the main section 122a and a second end connected to their respective lateral flange 122b on the upper surface 136 thereof. More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, the second end of the actuator 155 is spaced from the cylindrical cavity 176 towards the distal end of the respective lateral flange 122b.

The surface forming equipment 20, 120 may also include a control mechanism (not shown), such as a joystick type control mechanism (or joystick). This may be manipulated by the operator, for example the operator of the motorized type mobile unit to which the surface forming equipment 20, 120 is connected to control the position of the lateral wings 22b, 122b as well as the position of the blade 22, 122, or its inclination relative to the direction of displacement D (right or inclined). More particularly, the actuators 41, 55, 141, 155 of the pivot assembly 40, 140 of the blade 22, 122 and the wing pivot assembly 50, 150 can be operatively connected to the control mechanism by hydraulic and / or electrical connectors. The control mechanism may also include electrical controls for actuating the different actuators of the surface forming equipment 20, 120.

The surface forming equipment 20, 120, described above, can be manufactured using a manufacturing method including known assembly means including welding, bonding, riveting, casing, crimping, screwing and combinations of at least two of these assembly means.

As mentioned above, the surface forming equipment 20, 120 may be releasably secured to a mobile unit to form an operative motorized assembly composed of surface forming equipment, as described above, Removably or permanently attached (non-removable) to a mobile unit. In one embodiment, the mobile unit may be a motorized unit of the track-type type (in particular of the skidsteer compact loader type) or those sold by the companies Caterpillar and BobCat In one embodiment, the mobile unit is provided with a device for tilting, forward or backward, the blade 22, 122 of the equipment 20, 120.

In one embodiment, for a predetermined motorized unit, a surface forming equipment 20, 120 having a blade 22, 122 whose length (including the lateral wings 22b, 122b) is 1.6 to 2 times the width of the motorized unit can be selected.

To mount the surface forming equipment 20, 120 to a mobile unit, the attachment structure 56, 156 is attached to the frame of the mobile unit. For example, the equipment 20, 120 can be secured through the plates 58, 158 on appropriate supports of the frame, optionally pivotable to allow the blade 22, 122 to tilt.

When mounted to a mobile unit, the height of the surface forming equipment 20, 120 is adjusted so that the lower surface of the blade 22, 122, the lower surface of the knife 42, 142 or the lower surface 34, 134 of the beam 26, 126 at the main section 22a, 122a, in the same plane as the pull point on the ground of the mobile unit, that is to say the lower surface in contact with the ground. This may be the ground contact point of the wheels or tracks of the mobile unit. Thus, in the rest position and on a flat and straight surface, the lower surface of the blade 22, 122 is in the same plane as the point or the traction surface of the mobile unit, that is to say the surfaces supporting the mobile unit on the ground. This configuration during the assembly of the surface forming equipment 20, 120 to the mobile unit, referred to as "zero position" or "zero point", makes it possible to have a buoyancy of the blade 22, 122 on the ground in operation. Thus, when mounted to the mobile unit, the buoyancy of the blade 22, 122 can be maintained without the aid of electronic devices, such as a laser, electrical, hydraulic or other. This buoyancy also makes it possible to form the ground with the surface forming equipment 20, 120 with a relatively high speed of displacement. The equipment "floats" on the ground without necessarily being in "floating mode", that is to say the mode integrated on several mobile units, where no pressure effect on the ground is mechanically or hydraulically present, except the intrinsic weight of the equipment 20, 120.

It has been observed that adjusting the height of the blade 22, 122, relatively to the traction surface of the mobile unit, when both rest on a flat surface, significantly increases the surface forming results. , as much in the speed of movement and execution as in the quality of the surface formed.

In several embodiments, the surface forming equipment 20, 120 is mounted on a frame section of a mobile unit whose inclination can be varied. Thus, the operator of the mobile unit can change the inclination of the frame and thus rotate the blade 22, 122 about an axis extending substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis L, when it is configured in the upright position, that is to say substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement D of the equipment 20, 120. Thus, the blade 22, 122 can be configured in a tilted position, either forwards or backwards, and thus modify the angle of attack of the knife 22, 122 or the lower surface 34, 134 of the blade 22, 122.

In several embodiments, the surface forming equipment 20, 120 is mounted on a section of the chassis whose elevation can be varied. More particularly, as mentioned above, the surface forming equipment 20, 120 is mounted on the frame at the minimum height, i.e., at the "zero" position. However, in some embodiments, the position of the frame section may be upwardly adjustable, i.e. the surface forming equipment 20, 120 may be raised above the position "Zero" during the operation. It may also be possible to lower the surface forming equipment 20, 120 below the "zero" position during the operation.

In one embodiment, the blade 22, 122 has a low profile, and a height that allows its center of gravity is substantially positioned below the center of gravity of the mobile unit to which it is attached.

The surface forming equipment 20, 120 described above may be employed in the field of forming floors covered with granular or liquid materials including, but not limited to, surfacing, leveling and moving the granular material.

When the surface forming equipment 20, 120 is mounted to a motorized unit, it can move over a wide speed range and in certain situations the maximum speed of movement of the motorized unit could be reached. while pushing the surface-forming equipment 20, 120 mounted at the front while maintaining a high quality of surface forming. For example, when forming surfaces with the equipment 20, 120, a speed of movement varying from a very low speed to a speed of 20 km / hour can be achieved. These speeds are achieved by virtue of the high buoyancy and the substantially flat bottom surface of the blade 22, 122, which minimize the risk of "bad shots" and make it more difficult to prick the blade 22, 122 improperly into the ground. Indeed, because of the buoyancy, the risks of "bad blow" or maneuvering error are substantially reduced.

Also, the pressure exerted on the ground by the blade 22, 122 and, mainly by the pressure that it exists on the ground, makes it possible to visually identify zones with different levels of compaction, that is to say to distinguish the more compacted soil zones versus the less compacted zones. Indeed, it is known in the field that the visual appearance of the worked surface differs according to its compaction rate. For this purpose, the knife 42, 142, made of a material with high abrasion resistance, makes it possible to visually distinguish the more compacted zones of the ground from the less compacted zones. Thus, the operator can rework the surface to be formed until the targeted compaction uniformity according to the type of granular material and the quality required. Thus, it is possible to reduce and / or eliminate the subsequent use of compaction equipment, such as compression rollers. The knife 42, 242, with a beveled edge, also allows profiling the surfaces while maintaining the "floating" effect of the blade 22, 122, moving on the ground.

In addition, because of the configurability of the side wings 22b, 122b between the folded and unfolded positions, the forming width that can be reached is variable. In one embodiment, a width of twelve (12) feet was obtained. In addition, the configurability of the lateral wings 22b, 122b between the folded and unfolded positions make it possible to form angular and rounded slopes. This configurability also makes it possible to transport surface forming equipment 20, 120 laterally while traveling on the road. More particularly, in order to reduce the width of the surface forming equipment 20, 120 while traveling on the road, the lateral wings 22b, 122b are configured in the maximum folded position, thereby reducing the width of the equipment 20, 120, without reducing the width that can be reached during surface forming.

Also, the pivot assembly 40, 140 of the blade 22, 122 makes it possible to configure the blade in a plurality of inclined positions and thus makes it possible to carry out the work in confined areas.

The surface forming equipment 20, 120 is versatile and can be used for finishing work, as well as pushing granular materials and often in relatively large amounts. Thus, it can be used to perform work normally performed with a motorized vehicle with a bucket.

Although it is mentioned that in one embodiment, the blade 22, 122 has a length of up to twelve feet, it is appreciated that blades having smaller and larger dimensions can be designed. For example, larger blades can be designed and assembled on larger motorized units, such as bulldozers. Models can also be adapted to other types of motorized units such as, but not limited to, hydraulic excavators.

The surface forming equipment 20, 120 can be used for producing complex shapes, ie for forming complex profiles, because of these many components including the configurable side wings 22b, 122b simultaneously or independently, between an unfolded position and a plurality of folded positions, adjusting the inclination of the blade 22, 122 relative to the moving direction D of the equipment 20, 120 and the tilting of the blade 22, 122 (change of fore / aft inclination). The surface-forming equipment 20, 120 makes it possible to produce composite-angle profiles on the ground as well as rounded profiles. In this context, the actuators 41 of the pivot assembly 40 of the blade 22, 122 allow lateral action and the actuators 55 of the pivot assembly 50, 150 of the lateral wings 22b, 122b make it possible to define a non-linear profile. and adjustable with the blade 22, 122, the lateral wings 22b, 122b being movable by pivoting about the respective pivot axes 52, 152. The surface forming equipment 20, 120 can be used for producing shapes in narrow areas, ie for forming small areas, because of the low profile of the blade 22, 122 and the possibility of pivoting the blade 22, 122 in order to modify its inclination relative to the direction of displacement D of the equipment 20, 120.

Surface forming equipment 20, 120 can be used to push relatively large amounts of granular material. As described above, when the side wings 22b, 122b are in the folded configuration, and with the aid of the baffle 60 attached to the main section 22a, 122a, relatively large amounts of granular material can be pushed. As mentioned above, the deflector 60 can rest on the side wings 22b, 122b, configured in a folded position, to prevent deformation thereof. In some applications, the surface forming equipment 20, 120 may be used to replace the normally used buckets.

When connected to a mobile unit, the blade 22, 122 may be propelled in the forward direction and the rear direction, either by a forward or reverse movement of the mobile unit. It has been observed that the forming of surfaces is carried out rapidly in both directions of displacement.

Surface forming equipment 20, 120 is also suitable in the case of heavy work such as that intended for the devices of the type of bouleteur (bulldozer) and agricultural or industrial tractors.

The surface forming equipment 20, 120 may be used for forming surfaces including surfacing, leveling, moving granular material but also for structural demolition, snow removal and de-icing.

In summary, the surface-forming equipment 20, 120 have, in particular, at least one of the following advantages:

1. versatility for forming flat, rounded surfaces as well as pushing granular material; 2. a modular working capacity thanks to the folding side wings which widen the field of action in the unfolded position and which allow to push large quantities of equipment in the folded position;

3. a high-speed leveling ability since the blade base is on a knife with a flat bottom surface with beveled edges that is very effective in limiting the risk of improperly "poking" into the ground;

4. great versatility since the blade can form with one or two side wings individually positioned unfolded or folded position; 5. Swivel assembly of the blade to reach cramped spaces and improving stability on the ground (triangulation relative to the tracks of a mobile unit); 6. pivoting assembly of the blade including a rotating plate system reducing premature wear and ensuring maximum stability;

7. blade pivot actuators including "single-action" type slewing cylinders providing hydraulic release during thrusts exceeding the tensile capacity of the moving unit;

8. a design to form floor surfaces near objects or obstacles; 9. a leveling ability in both directions, that is, moving forward and backward; and

10. the possibility of leveling spaces of limited height (for example, advanced from a suspended dwelling wall).

Moreover, although the achievements of the surface forming equipment and its components consist of certain geometric configurations, as explained and described above, only a portion of these components and geometries is essential and so the majority of these should not be interpreted in a restrictive sense. As apparent to one skilled in the art, other components and cooperation therebetween, as well as other geometric configurations, may be used for surface forming equipment, as briefly explained below. above and as it is possible to infer it for a person skilled in the art. In addition, it is appreciated that the positions of the description, such as "above", "below", "left", "right", and other similar positions, should be interpreted in the context of the figures. , unless otherwise specified, and should not be considered limiting.

Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated above. The embodiments of the invention described above are only examples. One skilled in the art will appreciate the characteristics of the individual achievements, as well as the possible combinations and variations of the components. One skilled in the art will also appreciate that any of the embodiments can be made in any combination with the other embodiments described above. It is appreciated that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or the main features thereof. The examples and embodiments described are to be considered in all aspects as illustrative and non-restrictive, and the invention is not limited to the particulars given. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, many modifications are apparent without departing from the spirit of the invention. The scope of the invention is thus limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

claims

1. Surface forming equipment comprising:

a blade including a closed profile beam having the shape of an elongated geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis and defining an interior volume therebetween; and

an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit.

The forming equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the beam comprises a lower surface and the blade comprises a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed. when using surface forming equipment.

3. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 2, wherein the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and the knife protrudes the lower surface of the beam at the front surface and the rear surface.

4. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 3, wherein the knife protrudes from the lower surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam.

5. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

4, wherein the knife protrudes at least ½ inch from the bottom surface of the beam.

6. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

5, wherein the knife completely covers the bottom surface of the beam.

7. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

6, wherein the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam.

8. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

7, wherein the knife has a beveled flange along the longitudinal axis.

The forming equipment as claimed in claim 8, wherein the beveled flange forms an acute angle whose ridge projects outwardly of the beam.

10. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

9, wherein the knife has a thickness between 3/8 inch and 1 inch.

11. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

10, wherein the knife has a substantially planar bottom surface.

12. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

1 1, wherein the knife is made of a material with a high resistance to abrasion.

13. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

12, wherein the knife has a thickness less than the height of the beam.

14. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 2 to

13, wherein the knife comprises a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

15. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

14, wherein the attachment structure is configured to attach the blade to the front of the mobile unit.

16. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

15, wherein the attachment structure comprises two arms, engaged to each other at their proximal end and spaced from each other at their distal end.

17. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to 16, comprising a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment.

The forming equipment as claimed in claim 17, wherein the pivoting assembly of the blade pivots about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis. and substantially perpendicular thereto, spaced behind it, and substantially vertical.

19. The forming equipment as claimed in claims 17 and 18, wherein the pivoting assembly comprises a rotating plate system including a first plate mounted on the blade fixedly and extending rearwardly. thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the attachment structure, and at least one secure securing piece to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the system of rotating plates.

20. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 19, wherein the support surface comprises an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure.

21. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 19 and 20, wherein the at least one securing piece comprises two secured hoops to the support surface.

22. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the pivot assembly comprises at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis of the blade.

23. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 22, wherein each of the two actuators comprises a jack having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade.

24. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 23, wherein the jack comprises a single acting ram.

25. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the interior volume defined within the beam is substantially empty.

The forming equipment as claimed in claim 25, wherein the beam comprises an internal reinforcing structure including at least one reinforcing rib extending in the interior volume between two of the at least three surfaces.

27. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

26, wherein the beam has a length of at least seven times greater than its height and whose depth is less than its height.

28. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

27, wherein the beam has a width of between 2 and 12 inches.

29. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

28, wherein the beam has at least six surfaces.

30. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 29, wherein the beam comprises at least two side surfaces.

31. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and at least one of the front and rear surfaces is concave.

32. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

31, wherein the beam comprises a flat bottom surface and a planar upper surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to each other.

33. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to

32, wherein the blade comprises a main section and at least one side wing pivotally connected to one end of the main section.

34. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 33, wherein the at least one side wing comprises two side wings, each being pivotally connected to a respective end of the main section.

35. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 and 34, wherein the at least one side wing has a length less than half the length of the main section along the longitudinal axis. .

36. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the at least one side wing comprises a pivoting assembly of the wing mounted at one end of the main section, in a portion upper beam.

37. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 36, wherein the wing pivot assembly comprises at least one actuator having a first end mounted to the main section and a second end mounted to the at least one a side wing.

38. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 37, wherein the at least one actuator comprises a jack.

39. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 38, wherein the jack comprises a double acting jack.

40. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 36 to 39, wherein the wing pivot assembly comprises: a cylindrical cavity defined in one of the main section and the at least one side wing, in the respective adjacent end;

at least two plates, spaced from each other, extending to the respective end of the other end of the main section and the at least one side wing; and

a core inserted into the cylindrical cavity and secured to the at least two plates, the plates covering the openings of the cylindrical cavity and the at least one core being rotatable within the cylindrical cavity, a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the blade, in the center of the core.

41. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 40, wherein the pivot axis of the wing is located in the upper portion of the beam and below the upper surface of the beam.

42. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 to 39, wherein the at least one side wing pivots about a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. of the blade.

43. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 to 42, wherein, when the at least one side wing is in unfolded configuration, the lower surface of the at least one side wing is in the same plane as the lower surface of the main section to form a continuous ground contact surface.

44. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 to 43, wherein each of the at least one wing and the main section comprises a bottom surface with a knife secured to the beam near the respective lower surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment, the knife of the main section comprising at least one of a male connector and a female connector to its lateral end and the knife of the at least one wing comprising at least one of the other of the male connector and the female connector at its end adjacent to the main section, the male and female connectors being engageable into each other in the unfolded configuration of the blade.

45. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 to 44, comprising a deflector mounted to the main section and extending substantially vertically above the upper surface of the beam.

46. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the adjacent ends of the at least one wing and the main section are inclined and of substantially complementary shape.

47. Surface forming equipment comprising:

a blade including a beam having the shape of an elongate geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, the blade including a main section and at least one side wing pivotally connected to one end of the main section, the at least one a side wing being configurable in an unfolded configuration and at least one folded position.

48. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 47, wherein the at least one side wing comprises two lateral wings, each being pivotally connected to a respective end of the main section.

49. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 and 48, wherein the at least one side wing has a length less than half the length of the main section along the longitudinal axis. .

50. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the at least one side wing comprises a wing pivot assembly mounted at one end of the main section, in a portion upper beam.

The forming equipment as claimed in claim 50, wherein the wing pivot assembly comprises at least one actuator having a first end mounted to the main section and a second end mounted to the at least one side wing.

52. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 51, wherein the at least one actuator comprises a jack.

53. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 52, wherein the jack comprises a double acting jack.

54. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 50 to 53, wherein the wing pivot assembly comprises:

a cylindrical cavity defined in one of the main section and the at least one side wing, in the respective adjacent end;

55. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 54, wherein the pivot axis of the wing is located in the upper portion of the beam and below the upper surface of the beam.

56. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 53, wherein the at least one side wing pivots about a pivot axis of the wing extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. .

57. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 56, wherein, when the at least one side wing is in unfolded configuration, the bottom surface of the at least one side wing is in the same plane as the lower surface of the main section to form a continuous ground contact surface.

58. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 57, wherein each of the at least one side wing and the main section comprises a bottom surface with a knife secured to the beam near the the respective lower surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface-forming equipment, the knife of the main section comprising at least one of a male connector and a female connector at its lateral end and the knife of the at least one lateral wing comprising at least one of the other of the male connector and the female connector at its end adjacent to the main section, the male and female connectors being engageable, one in the other in the unfolded configuration of the blade.

59. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 58, comprising a deflector mounted to the main section and extending substantially vertically above the upper surface of the beam.

60. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 59, wherein the adjacent ends of the at least one wing and the main section are inclined and of substantially complementary shape.

61. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 60, comprising an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit.

62. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 61, wherein the attachment structure is configured to attach the blade to the front of the mobile unit.

63. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 61 and 62, wherein the attachment structure comprises two arms, engaged to each other at their proximal end and spaced apart from each other. other at their distal end.

The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 61 to 63, comprising a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment.

65. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 64, wherein the pivoting assembly of the blade pivots about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis. and substantially perpendicular thereto, spaced behind it, and substantially vertical.

66. The forming equipment as claimed in claims 64 and 65, wherein the pivot assembly comprises a rotating plate system including a first plate, mounted on the blade fixedly and extending rearwardly. thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the attachment structure, and at least one secure securing piece to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the system of rotating plates.

67. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 66, wherein the support surface comprises an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure.

68. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 66 and 67, wherein the at least one securing piece comprises two secured hoops to the support surface.

69. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 65 to 68, wherein the pivot assembly comprises at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis of the blade.

70. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 69, wherein each of the two actuators comprises a jack having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade.

71. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 70, wherein the jack comprises a single acting jack.

72. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 71, wherein the beam comprises a lower surface and the blade comprises a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being in contact. with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment.

73. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 72 wherein the knife protrudes beyond the bottom surface of the beam.

74. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 73, wherein the knife protrudes from the lower surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam.

75. The forming equipment as claimed in any one of claims 73 to 74, wherein the knife protrudes at least ½ inch from the bottom surface of the beam.

76. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 73 to 75, wherein the knife completely covers the bottom surface of the beam.

77. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 73 to 76, wherein the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam.

78. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 72 to 77, wherein the knife has a beveled flange along the longitudinal axis.

79. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 78, wherein the beveled flange forms an acute angle whose ridge projects outwardly of the beam.

80. The forming equipment as claimed in any one of claims 72 to 79, wherein the knife has a thickness of between 3/8 inch and 1 inch.

81. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 72 to 80, wherein the knife has a substantially planar bottom surface.

82. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 72 to 81, wherein the knife is made of a material with high abrasion resistance.

83. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 72 to 82, wherein the knife has a thickness less than the height of the beam.

84. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 72 to 83, wherein the knife comprises a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

85. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 84, wherein the beam has a length of at least seven times greater than its height and whose depth is less than its height.

86. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 47 to 85, wherein the beam is a closed profile beam having the shape of an elongated geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis and defining an interior volume therebetween.

87. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 86, wherein the interior volume defined within the beam is substantially empty.

88. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 87, wherein the beam comprises an internal reinforcing structure including at least one reinforcing rib extending in the interior volume between two of the at least three surfaces.

89. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 86 to 88, wherein the beam has a width of between 2 and 12 inches.

90. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 86 to 89, wherein the beam has at least six surfaces.

91. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 90, wherein the beam comprises at least two side surfaces.

92. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 86 to 91, wherein the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and at least one of the front and rear surfaces is concave.

93. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 86 to 92, wherein the beam comprises a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to one another. the other.

94. A surface forming equipment comprising a blade including a closed profile beam having the shape of an elongate geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, having at least three surfaces extending along the longitudinal axis and defining an interior volume therebetween; and a knife secured to the beam near the bottom surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment.

95. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 94, wherein the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and the The knife protrudes beyond the lower surface of the beam at the front surface and the rear surface.

96. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 95, wherein the knife protrudes from the bottom surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam.

97. The forming equipment as claimed in any one of claims 94 to 96, wherein the knife protrudes at least ½ inch from the bottom surface of the beam.

98. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 97, wherein the knife completely covers the bottom surface of the beam.

99. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 98, wherein the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam.

The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 99, wherein the knife has a beveled edge along the longitudinal axis.

101. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 100, wherein the beveled flange forms an acute angle whose ridge projects outwardly of the beam.

102. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 101, wherein the knife has a thickness of between 3/8 inch and 1 inch.

103. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 102, wherein the knife has a substantially planar bottom surface.

104. The forming equipment as claimed in any one of claims 94 to 103, wherein the knife is made of a material with high abrasion resistance.

105. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 104, wherein the knife has a thickness less than the height of the beam.

106. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 105, wherein the knife comprises a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 105, comprising:

an attachment structure having a proximal end connected to the blade and a distal end configured to be attached to a mobile unit; and

a pivoting assembly of the blade connected to the blade and the attachment structure and for pivoting the blade between a straight position where a longitudinal axis of the blade is oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction of movement of the equipment and a plurality of inclined positions in which the longitudinal axis of the blade defines an oblique angle with the direction of movement of the equipment.

The forming equipment as claimed in claim 107, wherein the pivoting assembly of the blade pivots about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis. and substantially perpendicular thereto, spaced behind it, and substantially vertical.

The forming equipment as claimed in claims 107 and 108, wherein the pivot assembly comprises a rotating platen system including a first plate mounted on the blade fixedly and extending rearwardly. thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the attachment structure, and at least one secure securing member at the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing the disengagement of the first plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the rotating plate system . The forming equipment as claimed in claim 109, wherein the support surface comprises an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure. 11. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 109 and 110, wherein the at least one securing piece comprises two secured hoops to the support surface. 12. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 108 to 11, wherein the pivot assembly comprises at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on each side of the pivot axis. of the blade. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 11, wherein each of the two actuators comprises a jack having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade. 14. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 13, wherein the jack comprises a single acting ram. 15. The forming equipment as claimed in any of claims 94 to 114, wherein the interior volume defined within the beam is substantially empty. 16. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 115, wherein the beam comprises an internal reinforcing structure including at least one reinforcing rib extending in the interior volume between two of the at least three surfaces.

17. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 116, wherein the beam is at least seven times longer than its height and whose depth is less than its height.

18. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 17, wherein the beam has a width of between 2 and 12 inches.

19. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 18, wherein the beam has at least six surfaces.

120. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 19, wherein the beam comprises at least two side surfaces.

121. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 121, wherein the beam comprises a front surface and a rear surface and at least one of the front and rear surfaces is concave.

122. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 122, wherein the beam comprises a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to one another. the other.

123. Surface forming equipment comprising:

a blade including a beam in the form of an elongated geometric profile along a longitudinal axis, the blade including a main section;

124. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 123, wherein the pivoting assembly of the blade pivots about a pivot axis of the blade, substantially aligned at the center of the blade along its longitudinal axis. and substantially perpendicular thereto, spaced behind it, and substantially vertical.

125. The forming equipment as claimed in claims 123 and 124, wherein the pivot assembly comprises a rotating plate system including a first plate mounted on the blade fixedly and extending rearwardly. thereof, a support surface at the proximal end of the attachment structure, and at least one secure securing piece to the support surface with the first plate extending between the two and preventing disengagement of the first plate, the central plate pivotable between the support surface and the at least one securing piece around the pivot axis of the blade, aligned with the center of the system of rotating plates.

126. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 125, wherein the support surface comprises an upper plate fixedly mounted on the proximal end of the attachment structure.

127. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 125 and 126, wherein the at least one securing piece comprises two secured hoops to the support surface.

128. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 124 to 127, wherein the pivot assembly comprises at least two actuators with at least one of the two actuators disposed on either side of the pivot axis of the invention. the blade.

129. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 128, wherein each of the at least two actuators comprises a jack having a secured first end to the attachment structure and a second secure end to the blade.

130. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 129, wherein the jack comprises a single acting jack.

131. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 123 to 130, wherein the beam is at least seven times longer than its height and the depth is less than its height.

132. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 123 to 131, wherein the beam has a width of between 2 and 12 inches.

133. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 123 to 132, wherein the beam comprises a flat bottom surface and a flat top surface extending along the longitudinal axis parallel to one another. the other.

134. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 123 to 133, comprising a knife secured to the beam near the lower surface, the knife being in contact with a surface to be formed when using the surface forming equipment.

135. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 134, wherein the knife extends beyond the bottom surface of the beam.

136. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 135, wherein the knife protrudes from the lower surface of the beam at the lateral ends of the beam.

137. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 136, wherein the knife protrudes at least ½ inch from the bottom surface of the beam.

138. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 137, wherein the knife completely covers the bottom surface of the beam.

139. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 138, wherein the knife has an area greater than the area of the bottom surface of the beam.

140. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 139, wherein the knife has a beveled flange along the longitudinal axis.

141. The forming equipment as claimed in claim 140, wherein the beveled flange forms an acute angle whose ridge projects outwardly of the beam.

142. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 94 to 141, wherein the knife has a thickness of between 3/8 inch and 1 inch.

143. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 142, wherein the knife has a substantially planar bottom surface.

144. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 143, wherein the knife is made of a material with high abrasion resistance.

145. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 144, wherein the knife has a thickness less than the height of the beam.

146. The forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 135 to 145, wherein the knife comprises a lower surface in contact with the ground and an upper surface in contact with the lower surface of the beam, the lower surface being greater than the area of the upper surface.

Motorized equipment for forming surfaces comprising:

a motorized unit; and

surface forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to 146, mounted to the motorized unit.

Motorized equipment as claimed in claim 147, wherein the surface forming equipment is removably mounted at the front of the motorized unit.

149. Motorized equipment as claimed in one of claims 147 and

148, wherein the motorized unit comprises a ground contact surface and the lower surface of the blade of the surface forming equipment is mounted in the same plane as the ground contact surface of the motorized unit.

150. Motorized equipment as claimed in one of claims 147 to

149, wherein the motorized unit comprises a support for receiving the surface forming equipment and the support is pivotally mounted and controllable to change the position of the blade.

A method of manufacturing a surface forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to 146.

152. Use of surface forming equipment as claimed in one of claims 1 to 146.

153. Pivot mechanism between two components comprising:

a central base fixedly mounted to a first component; a support surface on the second component; and

at least one secure securing piece on the support surface with the central plate extending between the two and preventing the disengagement of the central plate, the central plate being pivotable between the support surface and the at least one security room.

154. A pivot mechanism as claimed in claim 153, wherein the center plate is circular in shape and has a "T" shaped profile.

155. Pivot mechanism as claimed in one of claims 153 and 154, wherein the support surface comprises an upper plate.

156. Pivot mechanism as claimed in one of claims 153 to 155, wherein the at least one securing piece comprises two arches disposed under the support plate.

A pivot mechanism as claimed in one of claims 153 to 156, comprising at least one actuator connected to the first component and the second component for pivoting the center plate relative to the support surface.