SELF-ADJUSTING SYSTEM, SNOW-REMOVAL VEHICLE INCLUDING SUCH A SYSTEM, KIT FOR ASSEMBLING THE SAME, AND CORRESPONDING METHODS OF MANUFACTURING, ASSEMBLING AND OPERATING ASSOCIATED THERETO

Abstract

There is described a self-adjusting system (ex. a self-adjusting skid shoe, a self-adjusting chain tensioner, etc.), and a corresponding snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle including such a system, as well as a kit with corresponding components for assembling the same, and corresponding methods of manufacturing, assembling and/or operating associated thereto.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of snow-removal equipment. More particularly, the present invention relates to a self-adjusting system (ex. a self-adjusting skid shoe, a self-adjusting chain tensioner, etc.), and also relates to a snow-removal vehicle including such a system, as well as to a kit with corresponding components for assembling the same, and to corresponding methods of manufacturing, assembling and/or operating associated thereto.

BACKGROUND

Snowblowers are well known in the art. They may be intended for domestic, commercial or industrial use (see FIG. 1). Also, they may be of reverse type (see FIG. 2), and/or provided with an integrated blade (see FIG. 3), etc. Also, they may be used on a carrying vehicle (e.g., a farm tractor, see FIG. 4), an articulated loader (see FIG. 5), or on a compact motorized vehicle (see FIG. 6), provided with a three-points hitch (1), with a quick hitch (2) or any other type of hitches, providing power to the snowblower via a transmission shaft (3) (e.g., connected to a PTO shaft), a hydraulic power (4), etc.

Self-adjusting skid shoes (12) are well known in the field of snow removal, because of their usefulness in the fact that they follow closely the ground during snow removal operations. This allows the user to scrape the ground more precisely and efficiently, preventing snow spilling on the sides of the equipment, even on uneven ground. This is an added value to any snow-removal operation. Various systems have been developed and are still in use to push a skid shoe (12) towards the ground.

Some of these systems rely on gravity. In these systems, the skid shoe (12) is attached at one of its ends to the frame (8) of the snowblower, creating a pivot point (14) for said skid shoe. Through slots (11) cut into the skid shoe, fasteners (15) are fixed to the frame (8), effectively acting as a guide for the movement of the skid shoe. Alternatively, the pivot point (14) can be removed, and the movement of the skid shoe would be guided only by the slots. The skid shoe (12) is purposefully designed to be as heavy as possible such that gravity always pushes it towards the ground.

Most other self-adjusting skid shoe systems use the potential energy of springs to apply a force downwards on the skid shoe. In the work environment in which self-adjustable skid shoes are used, they can easily get stuck in ice and snow at their top position, rendering their “self-adjustability” qualities useless. The use of a spring forcing the skid shoe down helps the mechanism avoid this issue.

Some of the most popular systems to this effect utilize compression springs (13) (see FIG. 8 and FIG. 9). In these systems, the skid shoe (12) is attached at one of its ends to the frame (8) of the snowblower, creating a pivot point (14) for said skid shoe (see FIG. 8). Through slots (11) cut into the skid shoe, fasteners (15) are fixed to the frame (8), effectively acting as a guide for the movement of the skid shoe. Alternatively, the pivot point (14) can be removed (see FIG. 9), and the movement of the skid shoe (12) would be guided only by the slots (11). One or more compression springs (13) are used in these assemblies. One end of a compression spring is fixed to the frame of the snowblower, while the other end is fixed on the skid shoe. Between those two fixed points, a pre-loaded compression spring (13) is used to always push the skid shoe in motion towards the ground.

Another type of system utilizes leaf springs (16) (see FIG. 10). In these systems, the skid shoe (12) is attached at one of its ends to the frame (8) of the snowblower, creating a pivot point (14) for the skid shoe. Through slots (11) cut into said skid shoe, fasteners (15) are fixed to the frame (8), effectively acting as a guide for the movement of the skid shoe (12). Alternatively, the pivot point (14) can be removed, and the movement of the skid shoe would be guided only by the slots. One or more leaf springs (16) are used in these assemblies. One end of a leaf spring is fixed to the frame (8) of the snowblower, while the other end is either fixed on the skid shoe, or free to slip on the cross-section of the skid shoe. Between those two points, a pre-loaded leaf spring (16) is used to always push the skid shoe (12) in motion towards the ground. Varying the position and angle of the leaf spring (16) allows the user the adjust how strong the spring resistance is.

Another type of system utilizes spring rods (18) (see FIG. 11). In these systems, the skid shoe (12) is attached at one of its ends to the frame (8) of the snowblower, creating a pivot point (14) for the skid shoe (12). Through slots (11) cut into the skid shoe, fasteners (15) are fixed to the frame, effectively acting as a guide for the movement of said skid shoe. A spring rod (18), round, square or of flat cross-section, is attached to the frame at one of its ends and is held in place by a support (17) at mid-length. The other end of the spring rod (18) is in contact (19) (“i.e. free to slip”) with the cross section of the skid shoe (12), pushing it towards the ground.

There are three main disadvantages that are common to most of these systems.

First, since these spring systems are often bulky and take up a lot of space, they cannot be enclosed in the frame (8) of the snowblower. Those bulky and uncovered systems can get in the way or collide with obstacles along the working area. They are also exposed to the contaminants in the environment, which can quicken the normal wear and tear of the mechanism, rendering the system less durable. Sand, salts and calcium currently used in snow removal activities are harsh contaminants for steel and steel-like materials.

Second, self-adjusting skid shoe systems often use open wound compression springs (13). These springs tend to get clogged up with snow and ice in the space between their spires, which prevents a normal and reliable movement and consistent strength along their longitudinal axis.

Third, some of these systems tend to widen the equipment. The useful working area is the space that comes into contact with the snow and debris to clear out. It is not desirable to install the mechanism in the useful working area of the equipment, as this would expose the system to lots of impacts and contaminants. Instead, the systems are most often installed outside of the useful working area of the equipment. The way the position of the self-adjusting system impacts the width of the equipment varies depending on the geometry of the equipment, however, the equipment is often widened significantly, without increasing its useful working area, which is a disadvantage.

It is also known in the art that a roller chain (10) is generally used as an element for the transmission of power (see FIG. 7) between a side shaft (5) of the gear box (6) and the auger (7) of the snow blower (8). Important advantages of the roller chain (10) are its resistance to impact, mounting flexibility, and configuration tolerance. It is well known in the art that to preserve the useful life of the roller chain (10), the roller chain must be well lubricated, kept under a perfect tension and prevented to be exposed to debris and/or contaminants (e.g., water, salts, sands, etc.). However, these requirements are difficult to obtain with existing snow removal devices, especially snowblowers.

One of the biggest problems to be solved by a person skilled in the art is the adjustment of the tension of the roller chain (10). This tension required needs to be sufficient to keep the rollers of the roller chain against the bottom of the teeth of the output gear (20) and the driving gear (21), to prevent a premature wear of the teeth and/or of the roller chain. Also, the tension applied should not be excessive, in order to prevent a premature elongation of the roller chain and a loss of energy.

An elongation of the roller chain (10) is a normal consequence of the use of the roller chain. However, by limiting this elongation, the maintenance steps are reduced and the useful life of the roller chain, output gear and driving gear is increased. Also, when the tensioning force of the roller chain is too high, the noise generated by the movement of the roller chain on the output gear and the driving gear increases, causing discomfort to the snowblower operator and nearby residents during snow removal operations.

Various systems have been developed and are still in use for applying a tension to the roller chain of a snowblower, such as a single tensioning sprocket wheel (23) (see FIG. 12), a pivoting chain tensioner (26) (see FIG. 13) mounted in tandem with a spring (22), and, in certain cases, a fixed sprocket wheel (25) (see FIG. 14).

FIG. 12 illustrates a simple system with a single tensioning sprocket wheel (23), which has the advantage of being economical. However, this simple system has the inconvenient that its adjustment must be made with tools. Also, this simple system does not continuously apply a tension on the roller chain. The roller chain, when worn and elongated, will become loose. As long as the operator does not readjust the single tensioning sprocket wheel (23), the roller chain (10), the output gear (20) and the driving gear (21) will wear quickly because the contacts between the rollers and the teeth of the output gear (20) and the driving gear (21) will not be adequate.

FIG. 13 illustrates a pivoting chain tensioner (26) mounted in tandem with a spring (22) which has the advantage of self-tensioning the roller chain (10). Some manual readjustments will need to be made from time to time. The advantage of this system is that the roller chain (10) is always under tension and keeps ideal contacts with the output gear (20) and the driving gear (21). The inconvenient is that this design uses an open wound compression spring (22). These springs tend to get clogged up with snow and ice in the space between their spires, which prevents normal and reliable movements and consistent strength in their longitudinal axis. In addition, these spring systems are often bulky and take up a lot of space. The spring-loaded rod assembly (22, 28 and 29) (see FIG. 15) is rarely enclosed in the frame of the snowblower, because of its size, and because of the constraints it creates for the adjustment of the system. In some cases, the chain guard is large enough that there is a way to fit the spring-loaded assembly in, but this is more the exception than the rule. In other cases, the chain guard must be open to some extent to let the spring (22) outside of the guard, which exposes the chain tensioner system as well as the driving system to contaminants projected by the wheels (9) (see FIG. 7) of the carrying vehicle. Those bulky and uncovered systems can get in the way or collide with obstacles along the working area. In addition, the spring-loaded rod assembly tends to jolt the pivoting chain tensioner (26) when there are violent shocks to the snowblower because it adds weight on the periphery of the pivoting chain tensioner. This jolting can damage the roller chain (10) and the spur gears (24).

FIG. 15 shows that pivoting chain tensioners (26) used in prior art are usually held in place by a pin (30), which is inserted into a bushing (34) welded to the pivoting chain tensioner. This pin then goes through a hole (31) in the frame (8) of the snowblower and held in place with a fastener (32). They are also equipped with a pivot system at the interaction between the spring-loaded rod (28) and the pivoting chain tensioner (26). The end of the spring-loaded rod (28) is inserted onto a pin (33) welded to the pivoting chain tensioner. The inner surface of the bushing and outer surface of the pin slip on each other, acting as a pivot point, and thus these points of contact need to be kept well lubricated. To keep these contact points well lubricated, a very common and cost-effective solution is to pierce a radial hole through the outer bushing and equip it with a grease fitting (27). The same method is used to keep the main pivot bushing (34) lubricated.

This solution requires a way to reach the grease fittings (27) with a greasing gun. This is achieved by cutting openings through the frame, such that the maintenance area can be easily accessible from the side of the snowblower. These openings are an entry point for snow and other contaminants to enter the chain case and damage the driving system.

The Assignee of the present patent application has developed over the years various systems and products to be used with snow-removal machines (ex. snowblowers, etc.) and/or the like, some of which are described and/or illustrated in the following utility patents having been granted: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,154,985; 7,465,140; 10,400,403; 10,767,327; 11,225,766; CA 2,240,436; CA 2,511,239; CA 2,541,044; CA 2,729,514; CA 2,777,641; the content(s) of which is(are) incorporated herein by reference.

Despite improvements made over the years, there is always a need to continue innovating and finding better and/or different ways of providing self-adjusting capability to snow-removal equipment, for example, and to be able do so, in a quicker, easier, simpler, faster, safer, more efficient, more convenient, more reliable, more secure, more economical and/or more sustainable manner.

Therefore, it would be particularly useful to be able to provide an improved self-adjusting system which would be able to overcome or at the very least minimize some of known drawbacks associated with the conventional ways and devices known in the art, as discussed above, for example.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a self-adjusting system which, by virtue of its design and components, would be an improvement over other related conventional systems, methods, and/or the like known in the prior art.

In accordance with the present invention, the above object is achieved, as will be easily understood from the present description, with a self-adjusting system (ex. a self-adjusting skid shoe, a self-adjusting chain tensioner, etc.) such as the one briefly described herein and such as the one exemplified in the accompanying drawing(s).

More particularly, according to one aspect of the present invention, an object is to provide a snowblower used for blowing snow, the snowblower comprising:

• • a housing for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower,
  • an auger being pivotably mountable about the housing, for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet of the snowblower, via a corresponding rotation of the auger;
  • a driving system and corresponding drive chain being operatively connectable to the auger, for selectively driving said auger in rotation with respect to the housing;
  • a chain case being operatively mountable about the housing, for containing and protecting the corresponding drive chain of the driving system, the chain case having an orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element of the auger extending through said orifice; and
  • a self-adjusting system contained exclusively inside the chain case for automatically tensioning and self-adjusting the driving chain within said chain case.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a snowblower used for blowing snow, the snowblower comprising:

• • a housing for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower;
  • an auger being pivotably mountable about the housing, for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet of the snowblower, via a corresponding rotation of the auger;
  • a driving system and corresponding components thereof being operatively connectable to the auger, for selectively driving said auger in rotation with respect to the housing;
  • at least one guard being operatively mountable about the housing, for protecting the driving system and corresponding components thereof, the at least one guard having an orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element of the auger extending through said orifice; and
  • at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe operatively mountable about at least one corresponding side of the housing, the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe including a deflection slot being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding guiding component of the housing, and for allowing a given deflective movement of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe about a given deflection range with respect to a ground surface.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a snowblower used for blowing snow, the snowblower comprising:

• • a housing for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower;
  • an auger being pivotably mountable about the housing, for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet of the snowblower, via a corresponding rotation of the auger;
  • a driving system and corresponding components thereof being operatively connectable to the auger, for selectively driving said auger in rotation with respect to the housing;
  • at least one guard being operatively mountable about the housing, for protecting the driving system and corresponding components thereof, the at least one guard having an orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element of the auger extending through said orifice; and
  • at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe operatively mountable about at least one corresponding side of the housing, the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe being positioned, shaped and sized to be operated about a given deflection range with respect to a ground surface, the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe being operatively provided with a self-adjusting system for automatically urging the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe towards a default biased configuration against the ground surface, and the self-adjusting system being operatively and exclusively mountable about the at least one corresponding side of the housing.

Other possible aspect(s), object(s), embodiment(s), variant(s) and/or advantage(s) of the present invention, all being preferred and/or optional, are briefly summarized hereinbelow.

For example, according to one possible embodiment of the present self-adjusting system, an object is to provide a self-adjusting skid shoe by means of a torsion spring, including a slot shape, such as the one briefly described herein and such as the one exemplified in the accompanying drawing(s).

According to another possible embodiment of the present self-adjusting system, an object is to provide a self-adjusting chain tensioner by means of a torsion spring, including a self-lubricating feature, such as the one briefly described herein and such as the one exemplified in the accompanying drawing(s).

According to another aspect of the invention, there is also provided a snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle provided with the above-mentioned self-adjusting system.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is also provided a method of manufacturing components of the above-mentioned self-adjusting system, snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is also provided a method of assembling components of the above-mentioned self-adjusting system, snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is also provided a method of using the above-mentioned self-adjusting system, snow-removal equipment, vehicle and/or component(s) thereof.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is also provided a kit with components for assembling the above-mentioned self-adjusting system, snow-removal equipment, and/or vehicle.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a set of components for interchanging with components of the above-mentioned kit.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of assembling components of the above-mentioned kit and/or set.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of displacing snow and/or any other type of material, with the above-mentioned self-adjusting system, snow-removal equipment, vehicle, component(s) thereof, kit, set and/or method(s).

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of doing business with the above-mentioned self-adjusting system, snow-removal equipment, vehicle, component(s) thereof, kit, set and/or method(s).

The objects, advantages, and other features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of preferred embodiments thereof, given for the purpose of exemplification only, with reference to the accompanying drawing(s).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-15 are illustrations and representations of different possible aspects, embodiments, components, features, variants and/or resulting advantages being discussed in the present patent specification and in relation to the prior art.

FIGS. 16-30 are illustrations and representations of different possible aspects, embodiments, components, features, variants and/or resulting advantages being discussed in the present patent specification and in relation to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several reference numbers, only some figures have been provided with reference numbers, and components and features of the present invention illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions shown in the figures are preferred, for exemplification purposes only.

Moreover, although the present invention was primarily designed for use with snow and/or other possible precipitation(s) and/or material(s) (whether “malleable” and/or not), and associated groupings and/or piles thereof, for example, it may be used with other objects and/or in other types of applications, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. For this reason, expressions such as “snow”, “precipitation”, “malleable”, “material(s)”, “grouping(s)”, “pile(s)”, etc., used herein should not be taken so as to limit the scope of the present invention and include all other kinds of objects and/or applications with which the present invention could be used and may be useful, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.

Moreover, in the context of the present invention, the expressions “self-adjusting”, “system”, “assembly”, “machine”, “device”, “apparatus”, “product”, “unit”, “equipment”, “tool”, “method” and “kit”, as well as any other equivalent expression(s) and/or compound word(s) thereof known in the art will be used interchangeably, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. This applies also for any other mutually equivalent expressions, such as, for example: a) “operatively”, “effectively”, “equivalently”, “practically”, “directly”, “indirectly”, “interconnectedly”, “remotely”, etc.; b) “blocking”, “locking”, “securing”, “closing” “retaining”, “stopping”, etc. (as well as associated qualifiers, such as “blocked”, “locked”, “secured”, “closed” and/or associated antonyms); c) “moving”, “displacing”, “pulling”, “translating”, “rotating”, “pivoting”, etc. (in that the present snowblower, associated self-adjusting system(s) and corresponding components thereof can move in various suitable ways other than the ones described and/or exemplified in the present patent specification); d) “hole”, “orifice”, “through-hole”, “bore”, “cavity”, “recess”, “notch”, “groove”, “slot”, “indent”, “notch”, etc.; e) “axis”, “pivot”, “hinge”, etc.; f) “boom”, “flange”, “truss”, “bar”, “linkage”, “extension”, “piece”, “part”, “component”, “sub-component”, etc.; b) “actuator”, “cylinder”, “motor”, “driver”, “puller”, “pusher”, “activator”, “gear assembly”, “transmission”, etc.; c) “pin”, “insert”, “connector”, “fastener”, “coupler”, “pivot”, “hinge”, etc.; e) “vehicle”, “snow-plow”, “snow-blower”, “snow-removal equipment”, “tractor”, “excavator”, “loader”, etc.; f) “housing”, “frame”, “bucket”, “auger”, etc., as well as for any other mutually equivalent expressions, pertaining to the aforementioned expressions and/or to any other structural and/or functional aspects of the present invention, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art. Also, in the context of the present description, expressions such as “can”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “would”, etc., may also be used interchangeably, whenever appropriate, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.

Furthermore, in the context of the present description, it will be considered that all elongated objects will have an implicit “longitudinal axis” or “centerline”, such as the longitudinal axis of shaft for example, or the centerline of a coiled spring, for example, and that expressions such as “connected” and “connectable”, or “mounted” and “mountable”, may be interchangeable, in that the present invention also relates to a kit with corresponding components for assembling a resulting fully-assembled and fully-operational self-adjusting system (ex. a self-adjusting skid shoe, a self-adjusting chain tensioner, etc.) and/or corresponding working snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle.

Moreover, components of the present system(s) and/or steps of the method(s) described herein could be modified, simplified, altered, omitted and/or interchanged, without departing from the scope of the present invention, depending on the particular applications which the present invention is intended for, and the desired end results, as briefly exemplified herein and as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.

In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprise various components, and although the preferred embodiments of the present self-adjusting system (and/or corresponding snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle) and corresponding portion(s)/part(s)/component(s) as shown consist of certain geometrical configurations, as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential to the invention and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e. should not be taken so as to limit the scope of the present invention. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and cooperation thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the present self-adjusting system (and/or corresponding snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle) and corresponding portion(s)/part(s)/component(s) according to the present invention, as will be briefly explained herein and as can be easily inferred herefrom by a person skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

List of numerical references for some of the corresponding possible components illustrated in the accompanying drawings:

• • 101. snowblower (i.e. present system, kit and/or resulting equipment)
  • 103. housing (and/or “frame” of snowblower)
  • 105. auger (of snowblower)
  • 107. outlet (of snowblower)
  • 109. driving system (of snowblower)
  • 111. drive chain (and/or any other suitable driving component of snowblower)
  • 113. chain case (of snowblower)
  • 115. orifice (for shaft element of auger)
  • 117. shaft element (of auger)
  • 119. self-adjusting system
  • 119o. pivot axis (of self-adjusting system)
  • 121. gear
  • 121a. driving gear
  • 121b. driven gear
  • 121b. drive gear
  • 121o. pivot axis (of drive gear)
  • 123. pivot arm
  • 123a. first extremity (of pivot arm)
  • 123b. second extremity (of pivot arm)
  • 123c. protruding portion (of pivot arm)
  • 123d. slit (of pivot arm)
  • 123o. bore (of pivot arm)
  • 125. shaft
  • 125a. driving shaft
  • 125b. driven shaft
  • 127. self-lubricating component
  • 129. peripheral surface (of self-lubricating component)
  • 129a. inner peripheral surface (of self-lubricating component)
  • 129b. outer peripheral surface (of self-lubricating component)
  • 131. fastener (ex. bolt, etc.)
  • 133. spring (i.e. one example of possible “biasing device”)
  • 133a. first extremity (of spring)
  • 133b. second extremity (of spring)
  • 135. hole
  • 137. receiving component
  • 137o. groove (of receiving component)
  • 139. component
  • 141. guard (ex. alternative embodiment of possible “chain case”)
  • 143. component
  • 145. self-adjusting skidding shoe
  • 147. deflection slot (of self-adjusting skidding shoe)
  • 147a. main section (of deflection slot)
  • 147b. complementary section (ex. “funneling portion” of deflection slot)
  • 147d. closed-ended distal end (of deflection slot)
  • 147e. open-ended distal end (of deflection slot)
  • 147f. open edges (of deflection slot)
  • 149. guiding component
  • 151. self-pivoting component
  • 151o. bore (of self-pivoting component)
  • 153. recess (and/or “cavity” of the self-adjusting system)
  • 155. bushing
  • 155a. bore (of bushing)
  • 155b. abutment ring (of bushing)
  • 157. capping assembly

Broadly described, and as better exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the present invention relates to a self-adjusting system (ex. a self-adjusting skid shoe, a self-adjusting chain tensioner, etc.), and also relates to a snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle including such a system, as well as to a kit with corresponding components for assembling the same, and to corresponding methods of manufacturing, assembling and/or operating associated thereto.

As can be easily understood from the aforementioned and the accompanying drawings, the present self-adjusting system may come in various possible embodiments, such as a self-adjusting skid shoe, a self-adjusting chain tensioner, etc. (and/or associated working snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle) including one and/or several of the following possible components and features (and/or different possible combination(s) and/or permutation(s) thereof):

When referring to an embodiment of the present self-adjusting system in the form of a self-adjusting skid shoe by means of a torsion spring and its slot shape, for example, it is worth mention that innovative feature(s) of the present system reside in the shape of the slot of the self-adjusting system, as well as in the pivot mechanism of the self-adjusting system. It is worth mentioning also that these two aspects could be each used in combination with one another, and/or alternatively, used individually on their own, given that the presence of one is not dependant on the presence of the other, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.

Concerning the “pivot mechanism” of the self-adjusting system, it is worth mentioning that relies on the principle that by using a torsion spring (133) at a pivot point (214), it is possible to apply a moment of force (torque) on the pivot joint. This force is proportional to the deflection angle of the torsion spring (133) in regards with its neutral position. This embodiment is shown in FIG. 16, for example.

A bushing (36) is assembled through a hole in the skid shoe (145) up to its flange. The torsion spring (133) is installed around the circular bushing (36) on the narrower side of the bushing. There is a circular cavity (and/or “recess”) (153) on the frame of the snowblower in which the torsion spring and bushing are inserted. A fastener (131) and nut (243) are used to join the bushing (155), skid shoe (145) and frame (and/or “housing”) (103) together, effectively enclosing the torsion spring (133) inside the cavity (153) on the frame of the snowblower. The fastener and bushing will act as the pivot point of the skid shoe.

Each end of the torsion spring (133) is inserted in a hole, hole (42) on the frame (8) and hole (38) on the skid shoe (145). Those holes allow us to pre-load the spring (133) at installation, in such a way that the skid shoe (145) is always pushed in a rotational motion downwards. Modifying the position of the holes (135,135) allows us to vary the angular displacement the spring (133) is subjected to, hence varying the torque applied on the skid shoe (145) and its agressivity on the ground.

Concerning the “slot” aspect of the self-adjusting system, it is worth mentioning that there is a slot (147) on the skid shoe that determines the amplitude allowed in the motion of said skid shoe. The intricate shape of the slot (147) is designed in such a way as to let evacuate the contaminants, such as snow, salt, sand and ice, that are specific to snow removal operations.

A bushing (155) is fixed, through the widest part of the slot (147), to the frame (103) of the snowblower. It is fixed in place to the frame with a bolt (132) and nut (243). The bushing (155) acts as a guide inside the slot (147) to control the movement of the skid shoe. The length of the widest part of the slot (147) determines the amplitude of the movement that the skid shoe is allowed. The longer the widest part of the slot is, the greater the amplitude of rotation of the skid shoe will have. The bottom part of the slot (147), which has a funneling section (147b) followed by a raindrop shape (147d) (see FIG. 17) is made this way to avoid the piling up of snow and ice in the slot (147), which would prevent the skid shoe (145) to reach full amplitude. When snow gets in the slot (147), it will be pushed by the bushing (155) through the funneling section (147b) and tend to fall outside much more easily than if there is no such shape, in which case it would be compressed at the bottom of the slot and tend to pile up. A similar shape at the top of the slot (147) works in a similar way. The snow is pushed upwards through the funneling portion (147b) and can escape through the clearance instead of getting compressed at the top.

As may now be better appreciated, the above-discussed self-adjusting skid shoe of the present self-adjusting system (and associated snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle) is a considerable improvement over conventional systems in that, for example:

• • a) the fact that the spring mechanism is completely enclosed inside the snowblower frame protects it from the outside contaminants such as snow, salt and sand;
  • b) some other self-adjusting skid shoes systems use open wound compression springs—these springs tend to get clogged up with snow and ice in the space between their spires, which prevents normal and reliable movements and consistent strength along their longitudinal axis—the use of a close wound torsional spring (133) prevents this common problem;
  • c) prior art designs often use compression (13) or leaf (16) springs—since these spring systems are often bulky and take up a lot of space, they cannot be enclosed in the frame of the snowblower—those bulky and uncovered systems, can get in the way or collide with obstacles along the working area—the present design avoids this problem;
  • d) the present system does not widen the equipment unnecessarily;
  • e) highly cost-effective, because there are less parts than previous designs, while keeping design tolerances fairly large—no expensive machining milling, taping or drill is required to make the parts—the skid shoe (145) itself is only laser cut;
  • f) for the same skid shoe (145) movement, the torsion spring (133) requires less movement amplitude than the compression spring (133)—the compression spring (133) has to deform while fighting against the ice and snow that gets stuck in its spires—this means that the compression spring (133) wastes more of its energy on deformation than the torsion spring (133) does for the same work;
  • g) requires very minimal design modifications on the snowblower to be integrated as a feature;
  • h) follows the ground precisely;
  • i) cuts through hardened snow instead of floating on top of the hardened snow—the agressivity of the skid shoe can be controlled; and
  • j) the skid shoe can be narrow because it does not require additional reinforcements, anchors, structures to accommodate a pre-loaded spring.

As can be easily understood, in addition to the various innovative components and features of the self-adjusting skid shoe of the present system, and explained and/or exemplified in the present patent specification, the self-adjusting system according to the present invention could also be provided with various other known components and features of other conventional systems and/or the like being well known (ex. cameras, movement counters, anti-theft devices, etc.), as apparent to a person skilled in the art.

Other possible aspect(s), object(s), embodiment(s), variant(s), and/or resulting advantage(s) of the self-adjusting skid shoe of the present self-adjusting system (and/or associated working snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle), all being preferred and/or optional, are briefly explained hereinbelow, and can be easily understood and/or inferred from the accompanying drawings, as well.

Namely, several modification(s), alteration(s), addition(s) and/or simplification(s) could be made to the self-adjusting skid shoe of the present self-adjusting system (and/or associated working snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle), depending on the intended purpose(s) and/or desired result(s), without departing from the scope of the present invention, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art. For example:

• • a) the spring could be enclosed inside another part of the snowblower that is not the frame, such as inside of the skid shoe, for example—alternatively, it could be exposed to environment;
  • b) the torsion spring could apply a torque on the skid shoe by applying on it a direct pressure anywhere on it, not only by being constrained by its ends in holes—alternatively, the torsion spring could apply a torque on the skid shoe via a lever, for example;
  • c) the torsion spring could have any orientation—its ends could face upwards, downwards, and/or either side;
  • d) the torsion spring could be replaced by a torsion rod where one end is fixed to the frame and the other end is fixed to the skid shoe—alternatively, the torsion spring could also be replaced by a rubber torsion element, for example;
  • e) the pivot could be placed upstream or downstream of the working direction, or it could be placed somewhere in the middle—the pivot could even be completely eliminated—in this case, two or more torsions spring would apply a pressure on the skid shoe—the skid shoe would be free to move in the slot(s);
  • f) alternatively, the spring could be placed on the opposite side of the pivot, and its opening amplitude would be equal to the amplitude of movement of the skid shoe—the torsion spring could be placed anywhere on the assembly such that its longitudinal axis is not coincident with the pivot rotation axis;
  • g) the system could have one or more slots, and these slots could either be on the frame and/or on the skid shoe—they could be exposed, semi-enclosed, and/or enclosed;
  • h) there could be an embodiment of the present system in which a compression spring is protected inside a cavity similar to the cavity (153) shown in the preferential embodiment—this spring applies a force on the skid shoe, tangent to an imaginary circle around the pivot, effectively creating a torque and achieving a similar result;
  • i) alternative slot shapes would include pointy tips, and/or very large openings at the top and bottom—it could have chamfers on its edges, either on some edges or on all edges—the slot could also be closed at the top and open at the bottom, and/or closed at both ends;
  • j) there could be many holes in the frame such that the client can adjust the agressivity of the skid shoe on their own;
  • k) the torsion spring used could have axial, tangential, or radial legs—it could also have special legs—it could be right-wounded, left-wounded, or double torsion—the concept of a torsion spring should be understood in its largest sense, encompassing all types and variations of torsion springs;
  • l) alternatively, the present system could be used as combination with any of the prior art designs as a hybrid;
  • m) in the concept presented, all the parts are made of steel, but it would be possible to change the materials of the frame, the mechanism or the skid shoe, depending on the abrasion resistance desired;
  • n) embodiments of the present system could be any combinations of the variations mentioned above; and
  • o) the present system can be easily installed on all types of snow removal equipment: all tractor and loader driven snowblowers, snow plows, etc.

When referring to an embodiment of the present self-adjusting system in the form of a self-adjusting chain tensioner by means of a torsion spring, for example, it is worth mention that innovative feature(s) of the present system reside in the self-adjustment feature of the self-adjusting system, as well as in self-lubricating of the self-adjusting system. It is worth mentioning also that these two aspects could be each used in combination with one another, and/or alternatively, used individually on their own, given that the presence of one is not dependant on the presence of the other, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.

Concerning the “self-adjusting feature” of the self-adjusting system, it is worth mentioning that FIG. 18 shows a possible solution for a self-adjusting roller chain tensioner. The pivoting chain tensioner (ex. pivot arm 123) is inserted on a pin (30) up to its flange. A bushing (234) welded to the chain tensioner is designed such that its outer diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the spring (133), allowing the spring (133) to be installed around the bushing (234), on the pivoting chain tensioner. The pin is then fixed to the frame (103) of the snow removal equipment with a fastener (131).

Each end of the torsion spring (133) is inserted in a hole, hole (135) on the frame (103) and hole (135) on the pivoting part (123). Those holes allow us to pre-load the spring at installation, in such a way that the pivoting tensioner is always subjected to a torque, tending the roller chain (111). Modifying the position of the holes (135,135) allows us to vary the angular displacement the spring (133) is subjected to, hence varying the torque applied on the pivoting part (123) and the tension it creates in the chain (111). There could be one or more holes (47) on the pivoting part in order to allow the user to adjust the desired tension on the chain.

It is possible to control if one wants to subject the pivoting tensioner (123) to a clockwise or counterclockwise torque, either by installing the torsion spring in compression or in tension. The path of the roller chain will change accordingly (see FIG. 19 and FIG. 20).

Concerning the “self-lubricating feature” of the self-adjusting system, it is worth mentioning that self-lubricating materials are well known in the art but have not been used as self-lubricating pivot bushing for a snowblower self-adjusting chain tensioner. Self-lubricating materials have a tendency to be more expensive to manufacture, because they are often used in assemblies that require small design tolerances. However, they provide the advantage of not needing hands-on maintenance.

This proves to be a game changer once we could figure out a way to make a self-adjusting chain tensioner that does not require an opening in the chain guard. In this case, there is a big advantage in eliminating the other holes in the chain guard. It would be a strong asset for snowblowers, because it would allow users to even further protect the crucial components of the driving system from contaminants, etc.

A specific hole in the chain guard which has proven difficult to remove in prior art is a hole to lubricate the pivot points of the chain tensioner (123). In the majority of prior art designs, grease fittings (227) are used for lubrification purposes, hence the frame (103) needs to be provided with an opening to access said grease fittings. This opening can let snow or other contaminants enter the chain case, damaging the driving system.

The present concept does not use a grease fitting. It requires no manual lubrification. As seen in FIG. 21, the chain tensioner (125) of the present system has a welded bushing on one side (234). Inside of this bushing (234), a smaller self-lubricating bushing (239) is press fitted. The self-lubricating bushing (239) is made out of bronze impregnated with oil, and is self-lubricating, such that there is no need for an opening in the frame to access the system.

As may now be better appreciated, the above-discussed self-adjusting chain tensioner of the present self-adjusting system (and associated snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle) is a considerable improvement over conventional systems in that, for example:

• • a) other self-adjusting chain tensioners often use open wound compression springs—these springs tend to get clogged up with snow and ice in the space between their spires, which prevents normal and reliable movements and consistent strength along their longitudinal axis—the use of a close wound torsional spring prevents this common problem,
  • b) prior art designs often use compression springs located outside of the chain guard—these systems are exposed, and thus more likely to get in the way or collide obstacles along the working area—the present design avoids this problem;
  • c) using the torsion spring principle allows us to remove the pin (33) from the pivoting tandem (119)—this reduces the welding required on the tandem, and will decrease the deformation due to the heat produced while welding—this allows the gears (121) to keep a better alignment, in the same plane;
  • d) for the same pivoting chain tensioner movement, the torsion spring requires less movement amplitude than the compression spring—in addition, the compression spring has to deform while fighting against the ice and snow that gets stuck in the spires—this means that the compression spring wastes more of its energy on deformation than the torsion spring does for the same work;
  • e) requires very minimal design modifications on the snowblower to be integrated as a feature; and
  • f) the self-lubricating feature removes the need for a grease fitting, which removes the need for an access hole in the frame of the snowblower—this is where an important advantage of this improvement lies: since there is no need for an opening on the guard, no contaminants get in, and the driving system's life expectancy rises—in addition, since the maintenance required is reduced, there is a time gain for the user—the average snowblower user is not as diligent about their snowblower maintenance as they should, thus, removing one step without compromising the driving system's life expectancy is desirable.

As can be easily understood, in addition to the various innovative components and features of the present self-adjusting tensioner of the system, and explained and/or exemplified in the present patent specification, the self-adjusting system according to the present invention could also be provided with various other known components and features of other conventional systems and/or the like being well known (ex. cameras, movement counters, anti-theft devices, etc.), as apparent to a person skilled in the art.

Other possible aspect(s), object(s), embodiment(s), variant(s), and/or resulting advantage(s) of the present self-adjusting tensioner of the self-adjusting system (and/or associated working snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle), all being preferred and/or optional, are briefly explained hereinbelow, and can be easily understood and/or inferred from the accompanying drawings, as well.

Namely, several modification(s), alteration(s), addition(s) and/or simplification(s) could be made to the self-adjusting tensioner of the present self-adjusting system (and/or associated working snow-removal equipment and/or vehicle), depending on the intended purpose(s) and/or desired result(s), without departing from the scope of the present invention, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art. For example:

• • a) the pivot point can be placed near the center of mass, or anywhere else on the pivoting chain tensioner—alternatively, the axis of rotation of the pivoting chain tensioner could coincide with the axis of rotation of a gear, effectively making said gear an idler gear;
  • b) the spring could be exposed to the environment instead of enclosed in the chain guard;
  • c) the torsion spring could apply a torque on the pivoting chain tensioner by applying on it a direct pressure on any part of it, not only by being constrained by its legs in holes—alternatively, the torsion spring could apply a torque on the pivoting chain tensioner via a lever;
  • d) an embodiment of the present system could be that a torsion spring leg applies a direct pressure to the pivoting chain tensioner in order to create a torque—the shape of the pivoting chain tensioner can be designed such that depending on the torsion spring angular amplitude, the distance between the point of contact with the spring leg and the pivot varies—this would allow the torque applied on the chain tensioner to be constant;
  • e) the torsion spring could have any orientation—its ends could face upwards, downwards, or either side;
  • f) the torsion spring used could have axial, tangential, or radial legs—it could also have special legs—it could be right-wounded, left-wounded, or double torsion—the concept of a torsion spring should be understood in its largest sense, encompassing all types and variations of torsion springs;
  • g) the torsion spring could be placed anywhere on the assembly such that its longitudinal axis is not coincident with the pivot rotation axis;
  • h) the torsion spring could also be replaced by a torsion rod where one end is fixed to the frame and the other end is fixed to the skid shoe—the torsion spring could also be replaced by a rubber torsion element;
  • i) the pivot could even be completely eliminated—in this case, two or more torsion springs would apply a pressure on the pivoting chain tensioner—the chain tensioner would be free to move in slots;
  • j) there could be many holes in the frame such that the client can adjust the agressivity of the chain tensioner on their own;
  • k) instead of a self-lubricating bushing, it is possible to press fit a bearing in the assembly to allow the rotation on the pivot point;
  • l) alternatively, this system could be used as combination with any of the prior art designs as a hybrid;
  • m) in this case, all the parts except the self-lubricating bushing are made of steel, but it would be possible to change the materials of the frame, the mechanism or the pivoting chain tensioner; and
  • n) embodiments of the present system could be any combinations of the variations mentioned above.

As can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art in view of the present patent specification and accompanying drawings, the present system (i.e. equipment, kit, etc.) may come in the form of a system (i.e. equipment, kit, etc.) including one and/or several of the following possible components and features (and/or different possible combination(s) and/or permutation(s) thereof):

• • i.) A snowblower (101) used for blowing snow, the snowblower (101) comprising:
  • a housing (103) for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower (101);
  • an auger (105) being pivotably mountable about the housing (103), for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet (107) of the snowblower (101), via a corresponding rotation of the auger (105);
  • a driving system (109) and corresponding drive chain (111) being operatively connectable to the auger (105), for selectively driving said auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103);
  • a chain case (113) being operatively mountable about the housing (103), for containing and protecting the corresponding drive chain (111) of the driving system (109), the chain case (113) having an orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element (117) of the auger (105) extending through said orifice (115); and
  • a self-adjusting system (119) contained exclusively inside the chain case (113) for automatically tensioning and self-adjusting the driving chain within said chain case (113).
  • ii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the driving system (109) includes at least one drive gear (121c) being operatively and pivotably mountable about the housing (103), inside the chain case (113), the at least one drive gear (121c) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a segment of the drive chain (111).
  • iii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) includes a pivot axis (1210) being relatively displaceable within the chain case (113) via at least at least one biasing device, for operating the at least one drive gear (121c) between at least first and second different operational modes, and for in turn operating the drive chain (111) between at least two different tensioned configurations, one of said different operational modes being biased automatically by default via the at least one biasing device.
  • iv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) is provided about a pivot arm (123) being operatively and pivotably mountable about the housing (103), so that a biasing force of the at least one biasing device in turn urges the pivot arm (123) to pivot, and thus in turn urges the at least one drive gear (121c) to be operated towards a given operational mode by default.
  • v.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) are positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another and within the chain case (113), and wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) cooperate with the drive chain (111), so as to ensure a minimal given tension of the drive chain (111) being required to drive the auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103).
  • vi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) includes at least first and second drive gears (121c), each drive gear (121c) being provided about the same pivot arm (123).
  • vii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the first and second drive gears (121c) are pivotably mountable about opposite extremities (123a,123b) of the pivot arm (123).
  • viii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the drive gears (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) are positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another and within the chain case (113), and wherein the drive gears (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) cooperate with the drive chain (111), so as to ensure that the drive chain (111) passes between the first and second drive gears (121c).
  • ix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the driving system (109) includes a driving shaft (125a) cooperable with a corresponding driven shaft (125b) via the drive chain (111), and wherein the drive chain (111) is positioned, shaped and sized for cooperating with both shafts (125).
  • x.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the drive chain (111) is further positioned, shaped and sized for forming a closed loop about the driving and driven shafts (125a,125b).
  • xi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the driving and driven shafts (125a,125b) are provided with driving and driven gears (121a,121b) respectively, and wherein the drive chain (111) is further positioned, shaped and sized for forming a closed loop about said corresponding gears (121a,121b) of the driving and driven shafts (125a,125b).
  • xii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein each gear (121,121a,121b,121c) of the snowblower (101) is provided with corresponding teeth and recesses, the corresponding teeth of each gear (121,121a,121b,121c) being positioned, shaped and sized for engaging corresponding segments of the drive chain (111).
  • xiii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the driven shaft (125b) corresponds to the shaft element (117) of the auger (105).
  • xiv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the pivot arm (123) is operatively and pivotably mountable about the housing (103) via at least one self-lubricating component (127).
  • xv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-lubricating component (127) is removably and selectively insertable about a corresponding bore (123a) of the pivot arm (123).
  • xvi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-lubricating component (127) is substantially cylindrical.
  • xvii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-lubricating component (127) is made of a material capable of releasing a lubrication substance for lubricating a rotation of the pivot arm (123).
  • xviii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the lubrication substance is provided about at least one peripheral surface (129) of the at least one self-lubricating component (127).
  • xix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the corresponding bore (123a) of the pivot arm (123) is further provided about a corresponding protruding portion (123c) of the pivot arm (123).
  • xx.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) is removably and selectively mountable onto the pivot arm (123) via at least one corresponding fastener (131).
  • xxi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one biasing device includes at least one spring (133) having a first extremity (133a) being positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging the housing (103), and a second extremity (133b) being positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging either one of the at least one drive gear (121c) and the pivot arm (123).
  • xxii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the first extremity (133a) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the housing (103), and wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the pivot arm (123).
  • xxiii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the pivot arm (123) is provided with a pair of holes (135) for allowing two different possible set-ups for the at least one spring (133) about the pivot arm (123) and corresponding self-adjusting system (119).
  • xxiv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging the pivot arm (123) via at least one corresponding receiving component (137) of said pivot arm (123).
  • xxv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one corresponding receiving component (137) of the pivot arm (123) is pivotably mountable about said pivot arm (123).
  • xxvi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one corresponding receiving component (137) includes a corresponding groove (1370) being complementary in shape to that of the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133).
  • xxvii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the corresponding groove (1370) of the at least one corresponding receiving component (137) is a peripheral groove (1370) being provided circumferentially about the least one corresponding receiving component (137).
  • xxviii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the first extremity (133a) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the housing (103), and wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding slit (123d) of the pivot arm (123).
  • xxix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the chain case (113) is deprived of any lubrication holes.
  • xxx.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving the corresponding segment of the shaft element (117) of the auger (105) is the sole orifice (115) provided about the chain case (113).
  • xxxi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving the corresponding segment (117) of the shaft element of the auger (105) is provided with a corresponding sealing assembly.
  • xxxii.) A kit with components for assembling a snowblower (101) and/or a self-adjusting system (119) thereof according to any one of the preceding combination(s).
  • xxxiii.) A snowblower (101) used for blowing snow, the snowblower (101) comprising:
    • a housing (103) for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower (101);
    • an auger (105) being pivotably mountable about the housing (103), for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet (107) of the snowblower (101), via a corresponding rotation of the auger (105);
    • a driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof being operatively connectable to the auger (105), for selectively driving said auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103);
    • at least one guard (141) being operatively mountable about the housing (103), for protecting the driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof, the at least one guard (141) having an orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element (117) of the auger (105) extending through said orifice (115); and
    • at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) operatively mountable about at least one corresponding side of the housing (103), the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) including a deflection slot (147) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding guiding component (149) of the housing (103), and for allowing a given deflective movement of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) about a given deflection range with respect to a ground surface.
  • xxxiv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the deflection slot (147) includes at least two different sections, including a main section (147a) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving the corresponding guiding component (149) of the housing (103), and for allowing the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) to be operated along the given deflection range, and at least one complementary section (147b) for allowing undesirable material to evacuate from said at least one complementary section (147b).
  • xxxv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one complementary section (147b) of the deflection slot (147) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes a lower complementary section (147b) being provided about a lower portion of the main section (147a) of said deflection slot (147).
  • xxxvi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the lower complementary section (147b) is a closed-ended lower complementary section (147b), so as to be integral with the main section (147a) of the deflection slot (147).
  • xxxvii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one complementary section (147b) of the deflection slot (147) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes an upper complementary section (147b) being provided about an upper portion of the main section (147a) of said deflection slot (147).
  • xxxviii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the upper complementary section (147b) is a closed-ended upper complementary section (147b), so as to be integral with the main section (147a) of the deflection slot (147).
  • xxxix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the upper complementary section (147b) is an open-ended upper complementary section (147b), so as to be open with respect to an upper outside portion of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • xl.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one complementary section (147b) of the deflection slot (147) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes opposite first and second complementary sections (147b).
  • xli.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein at least one of the opposite first and second complementary sections (147b) is a closed-ended complementary section (147b).
  • xlii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein both of the opposite first and second complementary sections (147b) are closed-ended complementary sections (147b).
  • xliii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein at least one of the opposite first and second complementary sections (147b) is an open-ended complementary section (147b).
  • xliv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the main section (147a) of the deflection slot (147) has a width that is greater than a width of a neighboring complementary section (147b).
  • xlv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) is provided with at least one curved section between the main section (147a) and associated neighboring complementary section (147b).
  • xlvi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the associated neighboring complementary section (147b) includes a closed and curved distal end (147d).
  • xlvii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the associated neighboring complementary section (147b) includes an open distal end (147e) with curved edges (147f).
  • xlviii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the main section (147a) and associated neighboring complementary section (147b) of the deflection slot (147) are symmetrical about a substantially vertical imaginary axis.
  • xlix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the guiding component (149) of the self-adjusting system (119) includes at least one self-pivoting component (151).
  • l.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-pivoting component (151) is removably and selectively insertable about at least one corresponding recess (153) of the self-adjusting system (119).
  • li.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-pivoting component (151) is substantially cylindrical.
  • lii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-pivoting component (151) includes a bushing (155).
  • liii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the bushing (155) includes an abutment ring (155b) for abutting against a lateral outside portion of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • liv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein at least one corresponding fastener (131) is extendable through a corresponding bore (1510) of the at least one self-pivoting component (151) and operatively into a corresponding recess (153) of the housing (103), for providing the guiding component (149) of the self-adjusting system (119) with a corresponding anchoring point.
  • lv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes first and second self-adjusting skidding shoes (143) being operatively mountable about first and second corresponding sides of the housing (103) respectively.
  • lvi.) A kit with components for assembling a snowblower (101) and/or a self-adjusting system (119) thereof according to any one of the preceding combination(s).
  • lvii.) A snowblower (101) used for blowing snow, the snowblower (101) comprising:
    • a housing (103) for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower (101);
    • an auger (105) being pivotably mountable about the housing (103), for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet (107) of the snowblower (101), via a corresponding rotation of the auger (105);
    • a driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof being operatively connectable to the auger (105), for selectively driving said auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103);
    • at least one guard (141) being operatively mountable about the housing (103), for protecting the driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof, the at least one guard (141) having an orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element (117) of the auger (105) extending through said orifice (115); and
    • at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) operatively mountable about at least one corresponding side of the housing (103), the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) being positioned, shaped and sized to be operated about a given deflection range with respect to a ground surface, the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) being operatively provided with a self-adjusting system (119) for automatically urging the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) towards a default biased configuration against the ground surface, and the self-adjusting system (119) being operatively and exclusively mountable about the at least one corresponding side of the housing (103).
  • lviii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the self-adjusting system (119) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes at least at least one biasing device for urging the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) towards the default biased configuration.
  • lix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) is operable between at least first and second different operational modes, and wherein the at least at least one biasing device is positioned, shaped and sized, and operatively connectable between the at least one corresponding side of the housing (103) and the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) for urging the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) towards the default biased configuration.
  • lx.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one biasing device includes at least one spring (133) having a first extremity (133a) being positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging the housing (103), and a second extremity (133b) being positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • lxi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the first extremity (133a) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the housing (103), and wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • lxii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one spring (133) is containable into at least one corresponding recess (153) of at least either one of the housing (103) and the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • lxiii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one corresponding recess (153) is operatively provided about the housing (103).
  • lxiv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one corresponding recess (153) is configured to be closed off by a corresponding capping assembly (157) for sealingly containing said at least one spring (133) within the at least one corresponding recess (153).
  • lxv.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the self-adjusting system (119) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes at least one self-pivoting component (151).
  • lxvi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-pivoting component (151) is removably and selectively insertable about at least one corresponding recess (153) of the self-adjusting system (119) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • lxvii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-pivoting component (151) is substantially cylindrical.
  • lxviii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one self-pivoting component (151) includes a bushing (155)
  • lxix.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the bushing (155) includes an abutment ring (155b) for abutting against a lateral outside portion of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • lxx.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein at least one corresponding fastener (131) is extendable through a corresponding bore (1510) of the at least one self-pivoting component (151) for providing the self-adjusting system (119) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) with a corresponding pivot axis (1190).
  • lxxi.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein the at least one corresponding fastener (131) and associated at least one self-pivoting component (151) are part of a same capping assembly (157) of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143).
  • lxxii.) A snowblower (101) according to any one of the preceding combination(s), wherein at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) includes first and second self-adjusting skidding shoes (143) being operatively mountable about first and second corresponding sides of the housing (103) respectively.
  • lxxiii.) A kit with components for assembling a snowblower (101) and/or a self-adjusting system (119) thereof according to any one of the preceding combination(s).

As may now be better appreciated, the present self-adjusting system is a considerable improvement over conventional systems in that it overcomes the many drawbacks and inconveniences associated with conventional systems, as discussed hereinabove. Namely, and among various other benefits, the new and innovative design of the present self-adjusting system (119) can be applied to various different aspects of a snowblower (101), as exemplified above, and in the case of a driving system (109) having a drive chain (111), for instance, advantageously allows the drive chain (111) to be automatically and continuously tensioned, in a self-adjusting manner, adaptably in response to different working parameters and loads that the snowblower (101) may be subjected to, while the new and innovative design of the present self-adjusting system (119) also allowing it, as well as the drive chain (111) to be fully encased, protected and closed-off in a sealingly manner within a corresponding chain case (113), so as to advantageously avoid and/or minimize the infiltration of undesirable materials within said chain case (113), something not being possible with conventional chain tensioners of snowblowers, etc.

Furthermore, the present self-adjusting system is advantageous in that it offers an innovative design with minimal components that can be modular and/or interchangeable depending on the applications(s) for which the self-adjusting system is intended for, and the desired end result(s), and the present self-adjusting system is also advantageous in that it enables to provide a great variety of different types of configuration(s) and/or application(s) with a same snow-removal equipment and/or corresponding vehicle, in a quicker, easier, simpler, faster, safer, more efficient, more convenient, more reliable, more secure, more economical and/or more sustainable manner.

The present self-adjusting system and corresponding parts are preferably made of substantially rigid materials, such as metallic materials, hardened polymers, composite materials, polymeric materials, and/or the like, so as to ensure a proper operation thereof depending on the particular applications for which the self-adjusting system is intended and the different parameters (ex. loads involved, associated torques, weights, etc.) in cause, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.

Of course, and as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art, the scope of the claims should not be limited by the possible embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Furthermore, although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been briefly described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these embodiments and that various changes and modifications could be made without departing form the scope and spirit of the present invention, as defined in the appended claims and as apparent to a person skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A snowblower (101) used for blowing snow, the snowblower (101) comprising: a housing (103) for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower (101);an auger (105) being pivotably mountable about the housing (103), for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet (107) of the snowblower (101), via a corresponding rotation of the auger (105);a driving system (109) and corresponding drive chain (111) being operatively connectable to the auger (105), for selectively driving said auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103);a chain case (113) being operatively mountable about the housing (103), for containing and protecting the corresponding drive chain (111) of the driving system (109), the chain case (113) having an orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element (117) of the auger (105) extending through said orifice (115); anda self-adjusting system (119) contained exclusively inside the chain case (113) for automatically tensioning and self-adjusting the driving chain within said chain case (113).

2. A snowblower (101) according to claim 1, wherein the driving system (109) includes at least one drive gear (121c) being operatively and pivotably mountable about the housing (103), inside the chain case (113), the at least one drive gear (121c) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a segment of the drive chain (111).

3. A snowblower (101) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) includes a pivot axis (1210) being relatively displaceable within the chain case (113) via at least at least one biasing device, for operating the at least one drive gear (121c) between at least first and second different operational modes, and for in turn operating the drive chain (111) between at least two different tensioned configurations, one of said different operational modes being biased automatically by default via the at least one biasing device.

4. A snowblower (101) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) is provided about a pivot arm (123) being operatively and pivotably mountable about the housing (103), so that a biasing force of the at least one biasing device in turn urges the pivot arm (123) to pivot, and thus in turn urges the at least one drive gear (121c) to be operated towards a given operational mode by default.

5. A snowblower (101) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) are positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another and within the chain case (113), and wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) cooperate with the drive chain (111), so as to ensure a minimal given tension of the drive chain (111) being required to drive the auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103).

6. A snowblower (101) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) includes at least first and second drive gears (121c), each drive gear (121c) being provided about the same pivot arm (123).

7. A snowblower (101) according to claim 4, wherein the first and second drive gears (121c) are pivotably mountable about opposite extremities (123a,123b) of the pivot arm (123).

8. A snowblower (101) according to claim 4, wherein the drive gears (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) are positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another and within the chain case (113), and wherein the drive gears (121c) and corresponding pivot arm (123) cooperate with the drive chain (111), so as to ensure that the drive chain (111) passes between the first and second drive gears (121c).

9. A snowblower (101) according to claim 1, wherein the snowblower (101) includes at least one of the following: wherein the driving system (109) includes a driving shaft (125a) cooperable with a corresponding driven shaft (125b) via the drive chain (111), and wherein the drive chain (111) is positioned, shaped and sized for cooperating with both shafts (125);wherein the drive chain (111) is further positioned, shaped and sized for forming a closed loop about the driving and driven shafts (125a,125b);wherein the driving and driven shafts (125a,125b) are provided with driving and driven gears (121a,121b) respectively, and wherein the drive chain (111) is further positioned, shaped and sized for forming a closed loop about said corresponding gears (121a,121b) of the driving and driven shafts (125a,125b);wherein each gear (121,121a,121b,121c) of the snowblower (101) is provided with corresponding teeth and recesses, the corresponding teeth of each gear (121,121a,121b,121c) being positioned, shaped and sized for engaging corresponding segments of the drive chain (111); andwherein the driven shaft (125b) corresponds to the shaft element (117) of the auger (105).

10. A snowblower (101) according to claim 4, wherein the pivot arm (123) is operatively and pivotably mountable about the housing (103) via at least one self-lubricating component (127).

11. A snowblower (101) according to claim 1, wherein the snowblower (101) includes at least one of the following: wherein the at least one self-lubricating component (127) is removably and selectively insertable about a corresponding bore (123a) of the pivot arm (123);wherein the at least one self-lubricating component (127) is substantially cylindrical;wherein the at least one self-lubricating component (127) is made of a material capable of releasing a lubrication substance for lubricating a rotation of the pivot arm (123);wherein the lubrication substance is provided about at least one peripheral surface (129) of the at least one self-lubricating component (127); andwherein the corresponding bore (123a) of the pivot arm (123) is further provided about a corresponding protruding portion (123c) of the pivot arm (123).

12. A snowblower (101) according to claim 11, wherein the at least one drive gear (121c) is removably and selectively mountable onto the pivot arm (123) via at least one corresponding fastener (131).

13. A snowblower (101) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one biasing device includes at least one spring (133) having a first extremity (133a) being positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging the housing (103), and a second extremity (133b) being positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging either one of at least one drive gear (121c) and a corresponding pivot arm (123).

14. A snowblower (101) according to claim 13, wherein the first extremity (133a) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the housing (103), and wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the pivot arm (123).

15. A snowblower (101) according to claim 13, wherein the pivot arm (123) is provided with a pair of holes (135) for allowing two different possible set-ups for the at least one spring (133) about the pivot arm (123) and corresponding self-adjusting system (119).

16. A snowblower (101) according to claim 13, wherein the snowblower (101) includes at least one of the following: wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging the pivot arm (123) via at least one corresponding receiving component (137) of said pivot arm (123);wherein the at least one corresponding receiving component (137) of the pivot arm (123) is pivotably mountable about said pivot arm (123);wherein the at least one corresponding receiving component (137) includes a corresponding groove (1370) being complementary in shape to that of the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133);wherein the corresponding groove (1370) of the at least one corresponding receiving component (137) is a peripheral groove (1370) being provided circumferentially about the least one corresponding receiving component (137).

17. A snowblower (101) according to claim 13, wherein the first extremity (133a) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding hole (135) of the housing (103), and wherein the second extremity (133b) of the at least one spring (133) is positioned, shaped and sized for operatively engaging a corresponding slit (123d) of the pivot arm (123).

18. A kit with components for assembling a snowblower (101) according to any one of claim 1.

19. A snowblower (101) used for blowing snow, the snowblower (101) comprising: a housing (103) for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower (101);an auger (105) being pivotably mountable about the housing (103), for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet (107) of the snowblower (101), via a corresponding rotation of the auger (105);a driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof being operatively connectable to the auger (105), for selectively driving said auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103);at least one guard (141) being operatively mountable about the housing (103), for protecting the driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof, the at least one guard (141) having an orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element (117) of the auger (105) extending through said orifice (115); andat least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) operatively mountable about at least one corresponding side of the housing (103), the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) including a deflection slot (147) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding guiding component (149) of the housing (103), and for allowing a given deflective movement of the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) about a given deflection range with respect to a ground surface.

20. A snowblower (101) used for blowing snow, the snowblower (101) comprising: a housing (103) for receiving snow to be blown by the snowblower (101);an auger (105) being pivotably mountable about the housing (103), for urging snow to be blown towards an outlet (107) of the snowblower (101), via a corresponding rotation of the auger (105);a driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof being operatively connectable to the auger (105), for selectively driving said auger (105) in rotation with respect to the housing (103);at least one guard (141) being operatively mountable about the housing (103), for protecting the driving system (109) and corresponding components thereof, the at least one guard (141) having an orifice (115) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding segment of a shaft element (117) of the auger (105) extending through said orifice (115); andat least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) operatively mountable about at least one corresponding side of the housing (103), the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) being positioned, shaped and sized to be operated about a given deflection range with respect to a ground surface, the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) being operatively provided with a self-adjusting system (119) for automatically urging the at least one self-adjusting skidding shoe (143) towards a default biased configuration against the ground surface, and the self-adjusting system (119) being operatively and exclusively mountable about the at least one corresponding side of the housing (103).