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:
Nov. 23, 2010
Filed:
Jan. 14, 2005
Paul Havlovitz, Dublin, OH (US);
Steve Courtney, Powell, OH (US);
Michael Cavins, Marysville, OH (US);
Randy Goodwin, Grove City, OH (US);
Dan Larimore, Marysville, OH (US);
Paul Havlovitz, Dublin, OH (US);
Steve Courtney, Powell, OH (US);
Michael Cavins, Marysville, OH (US);
Randy Goodwin, Grove City, OH (US);
Dan Larimore, Marysville, OH (US);
OMS Investments, Inc., Los Angeles, CA (US);
Abstract
An improved collapsible spreader with a spread rate selection mechanism including a knob and a rotatable cup-shaped structure. The cup-shaped structure includes an elongated setting tab and a thirty-six step edge corresponding to thirty-six spread rate settings on the knob. Operatively engaged with the cup-shaped structure is an abutment tab that is part of a closure structure for blocking and selectively unblocking a hopper opening. The tab engages the setting tab to define the adjustable length of the closure structure. Thereafter, abutment rate selection is a function of the rotatable position of the cup-shaped structure. Engagement of the abutment tab and a step defines the size of the hopper opening and thus the amount of product released from the hopper during operation. The spreader also includes a dual spring arrangement to bias the closure structure to a closed position and to prevent breakage. The disclosed spreader also features a one piece wheel to reduce parts and assembly costs.