Rotary tiller device adapted for chopping

Abstract

A device in the nature of a rotary tiller equipped for traveling through fields as well as uneven terrain, for effectively chopping up encountered clods, vegetation and debris, and mixing same with the soil. We utilize a framework in which either of two different types of bladed, couner-rotating rotors may be effectively mounted, with one type of rotor having a number of outwardly extending teeth that are adapted for penetrating the ground as the tiller device moves thereover. The outermost portion of each tooth is provided with a novel cutting blade, which may interact with a stationary shear bar, with this type of blade being well adapted for chopping up encountered vegetation and for mixing it thoroughly with the soil. Another type of blade usable in our rotary tiller is a cylindrially-shaped gumbo rotor, utilizing a number of essentially flat, peripherally disposed blades, each of substantially rectangular configuration, which blades are oriented such that their principal surfaces each form a part of the exterior of the cylinder, and with each blade having a long edge that is sharpened, and caused to engage the soil. This latter type of rotor advantageously will not clog or become ineffective, even in very sticky soil. Our tiller device is equipped for mounting either type of rotor in such a manner that the depth of cut can be carefully controlled, and such that the closeness of the toothed blade to the shear bar can be carefully controlled. We preferably utilize a spring bias arrangement in the fore and aft positioning of the rotor, such that upon a hard obstacle becoming lodged between the shear bar and the rotor teeth, the spring bias can be overcome in such a way as to cause an enlargement of the distance between the teeth and the shear bar, such that the obstruction can pass through. Other features of our invention include the use of at least one skirt on the rear of the device for assuring a highly satisfactory leveling action.