Roof-gravel removal apparatus

Abstract

This invention relates to a roof-gravel removal apparatus including a trailer-mounted foldable frame which cooperates with the trailer on which it is mounted to define a drive-through archway when fully unfolded, said archway supporting a hopper or the like in position to deposit the contents thereof into the bed of a truck waiting therebeneath. Vertically adjustable stanchions disposed at the rear end of the trailer behind its wheels cooperate with the front section of the frame to produce the front legs of the arch when the latter is fully unfolded. The vacuuming apparatus and associated equipment are located on the trailer bed so as to cooperate therewith and counterbalance the foldable frame and hopper subassembly supported thereon. The midsection of the frame carrying the hopper is hingedly connected to the front section in offset relation such that a gap is left therebetween in folded position sized to receive and house the rear section. The invention also includes the sequence of folding and unfolding the frame which comprises first elevating the entire frame into an upwardly and forwardly inclined position relative to the trailer bed, raising the mid and rear sections as a unit while still folded into right angular relation relative to the front section, unfolding the rear section and lowering the frame thus unfolded down onto the ground.