The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jun. 29, 1999
Filed:
Jun. 02, 1997
Richard E Balder, Brainerd, MN (US);
Carl J Taute, Merrifield, MN (US);
Abstract
A bottom guard for a machine having a plate with a hinged side pivotably attached to a first frame member of a machine and a catch side opposite the hinged side releasably held near a second frame member by a latching device. The plate holds debris from the operation of the machine and serves as a safety guard. The latching device has a first portion attached to the second frame member and a second portion attached to the catch side of the plate. The two portions of the latching device mechanically interlock and a solenoid actuated mechanism releases them upon a remote signal to the solenoid which allows the catch side of the plate to move by gravity, thereby opening the guard and discharging accumulated debris to a side of the machine. At least one shock absorbing device, such as an elastomeric shock cord, a pneumatic cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder limits the amount that the plate will swing open when the catch is released and cushions the plate as it falls open.