Snow blower

Abstract

A snow blower may include a frame, a rotatable auger, one or more wheels, and a chute body. The frame may define an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The outlet opening may be defined circumferentially about the chute axis. The rotatable auger may be mounted to the frame rearward from the inlet opening and below the outlet opening in order to actuate snow to the outlet opening. The one or more wheels may be mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable auger to support the snow blower. The chute body may extend from the frame over the outlet opening along the chute axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model generally relates to power tools, such as snow blowers and the like. Background Art

[0002] Power tools are generally used to make working conditions easier. For example, a snow blower eliminates the need to shovel snow. Instead of manually lifting snow from a surface (e.g., a driveway or sidewalk) to move the snow, an operator can push or force a snow blower through the snow. The snow blower lifts the snow and discharges it at a distance from the underlying surface. Typically, this involves moving the snow from a rotating auger to a downstream chute that can direct the moved snow away from the snow blower. In this regard, a snow blower makes snow blowing easier than previous manual operations. Utility Model Content

[0003] Although snow blowers can greatly reduce the manpower required to clear snow from an area, existing appliances still have certain disadvantages during use. For example, it is common for the chute of existing snow blowers to become blocked, especially after long-term use. In particular, snow may become accumulated in the chute and restrict the flow of snow from the rotatable screw conveyor. In some cases, this may cause the entire chute to be blocked, which may prevent any snow from passing through it. If not handled, this may cause the snow stirred by the rotatable screw conveyor to fly forward or otherwise flow to an undesirable location. The snow blower may even be damaged. In order to deal with the blockage, the user usually has to stop the snow blower and manually remove or remove any blocked material from the chute. This can be tedious and significantly slow down any snow removal operation.

[0004] Therefore, snow blowers, features, or methods of operation are desired in the art. In particular, a system or method that passively (eg, without direct user intervention) prevents or inhibits snow from getting stuck on, in, or upstream of a chute would be advantageous.

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the present invention.

[0006] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a snow blower is provided. The snow blower may include a frame, a rotatable screw conveyor, one or more wheels, and a chute body. The frame may define an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The outlet opening may be circumferentially defined around the chute axis. The rotatable screw conveyor may be mounted to the frame from the inlet opening backward and below the outlet opening to actuate snow to the outlet opening. One or more wheels may be mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable screw conveyor to support the snow blower. The chute body may extend from the frame along the chute axis above the outlet opening. The outlet opening may define an average cross-sectional area of ​​the ratio of the closed outlet volume to the outlet height. The outlet opening may further define an opening ratio of the ratio of the average cross-sectional area to the outlet height. The opening ratio may be greater than or equal to 350.

[0007] In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a snow blower is provided. The snow blower may include a frame, a rotatable screw conveyor, one or more wheels, and a chute body. The frame may define an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The rotatable screw conveyor may define an auger axis and be mounted to the frame from the inlet opening to move snow to the outlet opening. The rotatable screw conveyor may include a first auger segment and a second auger segment that can move relative to the first auger segment. The second auger segment may be spaced apart from the first auger segment along the auger axis. One or more wheels may be mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable screw conveyor to support the snow blower. The chute body may extend from the frame at the outlet opening and downstream of the rotatable screw conveyor.

[0008] In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a snow blower is provided. The snow blower may include a frame, a rotatable screw conveyor, one or more wheels, a chute body and a breaker collar. The frame may define an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The outlet opening may be circumferentially defined around the chute axis. The rotatable screw conveyor may be mounted to the frame from the inlet opening backward and below the outlet opening so as to actuate snow to the outlet opening. One or more wheels may be mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable screw conveyor to support the snow blower. The chute body may extend from the frame along the chute axis downstream of the outlet opening. The breaker collar may be disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body. The breaker collar includes one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis so as to disperse snow from the screw conveyor to the chute body.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the utility model will become better understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the utility model and together with the description, are used to explain the principles of the utility model. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] In the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, a complete disclosure of the present invention including the best mode thereof for one of ordinary skill in the art is set forth.

[0011] Figure 1 A perspective view of a snow blower according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0012] Figure 2 A side elevation view of a portion of a snowblower according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0013] Figure 3 A front perspective view of a snowblower according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0014] Figure 4 A perspective view of an auger housing and chute of a snowblower is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 5 A perspective view of an auger housing and chute of a snowblower is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 A side elevation view of a portion of an auger housing for a snowblower according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0017] Figure 7 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of a chute and auger housing of a snowblower is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 8 A side perspective view of a portion of a chute and auger housing of a snowblower is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 9 A perspective view illustrating forces acting on a blocked outlet opening of a snowblower according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0020] Fig.10 A perspective view of a portion of a frame of a snowblower for receiving a breaker collar according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0021] Fig.11 A top view of a breaker collar to be received within an outlet opening of a frame of a snowblower is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig.12 A perspective view of another breaker collar to be received within an outlet opening of a frame of a snowblower is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Repeated use of reference numerals in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the utility model, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided to explain the utility model rather than to limit the utility model. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the utility model without departing from the scope of the utility model. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used together with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the utility model is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0025] As used herein, the terms "first", "second" and "third" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the position or importance of the various components. Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" include plural references. Unless otherwise specified herein, the terms "connect", "fix", "attach" and the like refer to direct connection, fixation or attachment, as well as indirect connection, fixation or attachment through one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "has", "having" or any other variant thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article or device comprising a series of features is not necessarily limited to these features, but may include other features that are not explicitly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, articles or devices. Further, unless there is a clear statement to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive "or", not an exclusive "or". For example, condition A or B is satisfied by any of: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0026] Approximate terms, such as "about," "substantially," "approximately," or "substantially," include values ​​within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "substantially vertical" includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0027] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with respect to specific embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more significant should not be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all claims.

[0028] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figures 1 to 3 A snowblower 100 is illustrated according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, the snowblower 100 defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T that are orthogonal to each other. The snowblower 100 includes: a frame 102; one or more motors 104 (e.g., element motors 104a or wheel motors 104b); and an auger 106 that is coupled (e.g., rotatably mounted) to the frame 102 (e.g., disposed in an auger housing 108) to rotate about a defined auger axis A. A Rotation. Snowblower 100 may also include a handle assembly 110 extending from frame 102. As shown, handle assembly 110 may extend in a generally vertical direction from a rear end of frame 102. Battery compartment 112 may be coupled to frame 102 to receive one or more batteries (not shown), which may provide power to one or more motors 104a, 104b (e.g., one or more electric motors). In other embodiments, motor 104 may include an engine powered by fuel. In such embodiments, battery compartment 112 may be replaced or supplemented with a fuel storage tank (not shown) that stores fuel for powering the engine.

[0029] Snowblower 100 is supported by one or more traveling elements (eg, wheels 114). Generally, one or more wheels 114 define a wheel axis A. W (eg, parallel to the lateral direction L), the wheel 114 is oriented about the wheel axis A W Rotation. In an alternative embodiment, wheels 114 are provided as a pair of driven wheels that can be driven or rotated by a separate wheel motor 104b (e.g., separate from element motor 104a). As shown, wheel motor 104b can be supported on frame 102 separately from element motor 104a. Although driven wheels 114 can be actuated or rotated by wheel motor 104b, an operator or user can selectively push snowblower 100 (e.g., manually).

[0030] It should be noted that although the illustrated snowblower 100 is shown as a single-stage snowblower, the present disclosure is not limited to this and may be applicable to any suitable snowblowing power tool, such as a two-stage (e.g., impeller) snowblower, a self-propelled snowblower, a manually propelled or push snowblower, etc.

[0031] In some embodiments, a controller 150 may be provided that is in operative communication with one or more components of the snowblower 100 (e.g., motors 104a, 104b, sensors 152a, 152b, 152c, etc.). The controller 150 may include a memory and one or more microprocessors, CPUs, etc. (such as general or special purpose microprocessors) that are operable to execute programming instructions or microcontrol codes associated with the operation of the snowblower 100. The memory may represent a random access memory (such as DRAM), or a read-only memory (such as ROM or FLASH). In some embodiments, the processor executes non-transitory programming instructions stored in the memory. For some embodiments, the instructions include a software package that is configured to operate the snowblower 100 or execute an operating program. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard the processor. Alternatively, the controller 150 may be configured to perform control functions without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuits; such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, etc.) but relying on software.

[0032] Controller 150 may be positioned at a variety of locations throughout snowblower 100. Input / output ("I / O") signals may be routed between controller 150 and various operating components of snowblower 100. One or more components of snowblower 100 may be in operable communication (e.g., electrical communication) with controller 150 via one or more conductive signal lines or a shared communication bus.

[0033] In an alternative embodiment, one or more operation sensors 152a, 152b, 152c are provided on the snow tool 100, and the one or more operation sensors 152a, 152b, 152c are in operative (e.g., wired or wireless) communication with the controller 150. Generally, such operation sensors 152a, 152b, 152c are configured to detect one or more operating conditions of the snow blower 100 and transmit signals corresponding to the one or more operating conditions (e.g., to the controller 150). Such operating conditions may be related to the performance of the snow blower 100. As an example, a motor sensor 152a (e.g., at the controller 150) may be provided to detect a motor load signal received from the auger motor 104a based on an operating load (e.g., voltage consumption) on the auger motor 104a. Such motor load signals and sensors 152a, 152b, 152c for such motor load signals are generally understood. As an additional or alternative example, speed sensor 152b can be mounted on frame 102 and configured to detect the speed of snowblower 100. The detected speed can generally correspond to the forward movement of snowblower 100. For example, speed sensor 152b can detect the speed based on the rotational speed of one or more wheels 114. To this end, and as should be understood, speed sensor 152b can include a rotation sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor, an inductive sensor, an eddy current sensor, a photodiode array, etc.) that is configured to detect the rotational movement of wheel 114 (or its axle).

[0034] Independent of or in addition to the performance of snowblower 100, the operating conditions may be related to the environment (e.g., the surrounding area or geographic location) in which snowblower 100 is located. As an example, a temperature sensor 152c may be provided to detect the ambient air temperature. In some embodiments, temperature sensor 152c may be mounted to frame 102 (e.g., separate from its motor(s)). As will be appreciated, the temperature sensor may include a thermistor, a thermocouple, or any other suitable electrical temperature sensing element.

[0035] Optionally, snowblower 100 may include one or more lighting elements (e.g., one or more light emitting diodes, commonly referred to as LEDs) configured to illuminate one or more areas of the environment in which snowblower 100 operates. For example, snowblower 100 may include a light 134 disposed on auger housing 108 of frame 102.

[0036] In some embodiments, the handle assembly 110 includes a top handle 110c (e.g., as a complete unitary piece or having left and right portions that accommodate the user's left and right hands, respectively). One or more inputs for controlling the snowblower 100 may be disposed on or near the top handle 110c. Although the top handle 110c is shown as a single-piece handle having left and right portions that accommodate the user's left and right hands, respectively. In other cases, the handle assembly 110 may include a multi-piece construction (e.g., having multiple discrete handles to accommodate the user's hands). The top handle 110c may be coupled to one or more additional portions that extend from the frame 102 to the first handle 110a and the second handle 110b (e.g., to support the top handle 110c or to permit selective height adjustment or storage configuration of the handle assembly 110).

[0037] The handle assembly 110 generally includes one or more controllers associated with controlling the operational aspect(s) of the snowblower 100. As a non-limiting example, the handle assembly 110 can include a power button 122 and one or more speed inputs (e.g., speed input 124) operably coupled to the controller 150. One or more position sensors 152a, 152b, 152c (e.g., potentiometers, Hall effect sensors, infrared proximity sensors, capacitive displacement sensors, inductive sensors, eddy current sensors, photodiode arrays, etc.) can be attached to or in operative communication with the speed input 124 to detect the relative position of the input (e.g., on the handle assembly 110) and communicate it (e.g., to the controller 150).

[0038] The auger housing 108 generally houses the auger 106. As shown, the auger housing 108 can include a plurality of walls that house or at least partially enclose the auger 106. For example, the auger housing 108 can include: a top wall 108a that vertically defines or is disposed above the auger 106 (e.g., such that the auger 106 is housed below the top wall 108a); a pair of side walls 108b that laterally define the auger 106; and a rear wall 108c that laterally defines the auger 106 or is disposed rearward from the auger 106. Generally, the auger housing 108 defines two or more openings to permit snow to pass therethrough. For example, the auger housing 108 can define an inlet opening 160 (e.g., at a front portion of the auger housing 108) to permit snow to reach the rotatable auger 106. The inlet opening 160 can be defined at the front of the rotatable auger 106, such as by a pair of side walls 108b and a top wall 108a. When assembled, the auger 106 can be mounted to the frame 102 and disposed rearwardly from the inlet opening 160. Independent of or in addition to the inlet opening 160, the auger housing 108 can define an outlet opening 162 to permit snow to flow from the rotatable auger 106 (e.g., actuated by the rotatable auger 106) and out of the auger housing 108 through the outlet opening 162. In some embodiments, the outlet opening 162 is defined by the top wall 108a. In turn, the rotatable auger 106 can be mounted to the frame 102 below the outlet opening 162 so as to actuate snow to pass therethrough.

[0039] The screw conveyor housing 108 can be in communication (e.g., fluid communication) with the chute or chute body 116. In addition, the screw conveyor housing 108 can be mechanically, electrically, or mechanically and electrically connected to the chute 116. The chute 116 can, for example, extend above the screw conveyor housing 108. Optionally, the chute 116 can include or be configured as a solid, impermeable body that extends from the outlet opening 162 along the chute axis A. C (eg, a substantially vertical axis) extending upward or downstream. Additionally or alternatively, the chute body 116 may define an unenclosed slot that is perpendicular to the chute axis A. C The chute body 116 extends from the outlet opening 162 along the chute body 116 (e.g., to the movable flap 118). Therefore, the horizontal cross-section of the chute body 116 can generally form a U-shape. In some embodiments, the chute body 116 includes or is formed of a relatively durable or resilient material (such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UMHP)).

[0040] During use, the chute 116 can direct the discharged snow in a desired direction. In an embodiment, the chute 116 can be oriented about a (eg, substantially vertical) chute axis A. C Rotation. The chute 116 may include a movable docking portion 118 that is configured to rotate the discharge direction around a horizontal axis. In this regard, the direction and height of the discharged snow can be controlled. In some cases, the direction of at least one of the chute 116 and the movable docking portion 118 can be controlled by an operator at the handle assembly 110. For example, a chute rod 126 can be provided on the handle assembly 110 to selectively rotate the chute 116. Additionally or alternatively, a movable flap rod can be provided on the chute 116 to selectively rotate the movable docking portion 118.

[0041] It should be noted that although a single chute 116 is shown mounted at a lateral midpoint on the top wall 108a in some of the drawings, alternative embodiments may provide one or more chutes mounted at additional or alternative locations. As an example, one or more chutes may be laterally offset from the lateral midpoint of the top wall 108a (e.g., while still to the top wall 108a above the corresponding outlet opening). Thus, at least one chute may be mounted on the side of the screw conveyor housing 106, rather than in the middle of the screw conveyor housing 106. As an additional or alternative embodiment, one or more chutes may be mounted to or disposed on at least one side wall 108b. For example, the chute may extend laterally outward or upward from an upstream outlet defined by the corresponding side wall 108b (e.g., as Figure 1 Optionally, multiple discrete exit openings or chute openings may be provided for different types of snow (e.g., relatively heavy and light snow, relatively wet and dry snow, or relatively dense and loose snow).

[0042] Special Turn Figures 4 to 9 , the outlet opening 162 may be generally resistant to clogging (eg, accumulation of packed or stationary snow sufficient to cover or block the passage of snow from the auger housing 108 through the outlet opening 162 to the chute 116 ).

[0043] As shown, the outlet opening 162 may be circumferentially spaced about the chute axis A. C In some embodiments, the circumferential direction may be defined in a radial plane (e.g., perpendicular to the chute axis A). C ) defines the minimum throat diameter d t and defines a set cross-sectional area S for the outlet opening 162 X . Minimum throat diameter d t It may be defined, for example, by the screw conveyor housing 108 (such as by the top wall 108a). In addition, the minimum throat diameter d tA minimum radial aperture for snow to pass from the auger housing 108 to the chute 116 may be set. As shown, the bottom portion of the chute 116 may be disposed radially outward from the outlet opening 162. Optionally, the minimum throat diameter d t It can be a constant diameter. Therefore, the cross-sectional area S is set X It can be through π*r 2 The calculated circular area (e.g., in the radial plane), where (r = d t / 2).

[0044] Along the defined portion of the outlet opening 162, a closed outlet height h may be defined. t For example, the outlet height h t Can be relative to the slide axis A C Or the vertical direction v. Generally speaking, the outlet height h t Axially or vertically delimits at least a portion of the outlet opening 162. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet height h t is defined between the outlet bottom 164 and the outlet top 166. Thus, the minimum throat diameter d t It can be disposed axially or vertically between the screw conveyor housing 108 and the chute body 116. Optionally, the minimum throat diameter d t Can span the entire outlet height h t Additionally or alternatively, the frame 102 (eg, at the top wall 108a) may surround the chute axis A C To define the outlet opening 162 and the axis A along the chute C For the entire outlet height h t of a closed volume.

[0045] In some embodiments, the outlet height h t The cross-sectional area between them (e.g., S X ) defines an enclosed volume (e.g., a disk-shaped area). In addition, the average cross-sectional area (e.g., the enclosed volume divided by the outlet height h) can be defined. t ). In addition, according to the average cross-sectional area and outlet height h t , the opening ratio (PR) (e.g., the average cross-sectional area to the outlet height h) can be defined t Thus, the outlet opening 162 may define a closed outlet volume and an outlet height h t The ratio of the average cross-sectional area to the average cross-sectional area and the outlet height h t The ratio of the opening ratio (PR).

[0046] In order to form a solid or plugged snow disk within the outlet opening 162, the ratio of the stress σ of the weight on the disk to the strength τ of the snow will need to be less than or equal to 1. For example, the stress σ may be calculated by the formula

[0047]

[0048] in:

[0049] ρ is the known density of snow,

[0050] d is the diameter of the snow disk (e.g., the minimum throat diameter d t ),

[0051] g is gravity, and

[0052] h is the height of the snow tray (e.g., the exit height h t ).

[0053] The intensity τ can be calculated according to the following empirically derived formula:

[0054] τ=9.4*10 -7 ρ 2.91

[0055] In certain embodiments, the opening ratio (PR) is not sufficient to permit the formation of a solid disk or a plugging disk, and thus can advantageously resist plugging (e.g., without requiring active or movable elements that may otherwise require direct intervention or be less reliable than closed embodiments). For example, the opening ratio (PR) can be greater than or equal to 350. Alternatively, the opening ratio (PR) can be greater than or equal to 1000. Additionally or alternatively, the opening ratio (PR) can be less than or equal to 2000.

[0056] Now turn to Figure 3 The rotatable screw conveyor 106 generally defines a screw conveyor axis A A , the rotatable screw conveyor 106 rotates around the screw conveyor axis. In some embodiments, the screw conveyor axis A A Parallel to the lateral direction L or wheel axis A W However, in alternative embodiments, the screw conveyor axis A A Not parallel to the lateral direction L (e.g., as A A 1). For example, the screw conveyor axis A A One lateral side (e.g., the right side) can be disposed at a lower height (e.g., relative to the vertical direction V) than the opposite lateral side (e.g., the left side). Thus, the rotation of the rotatable auger 106 can not only draw snow backward and upward due to the interaction with the rear wall, but also due to the auger axis A AThe non-parallel orientation of the auger 106 may also be used to draw snow upward and toward a lateral side (i.e., a higher lateral side). Optionally, the pitch (e.g., the distance between crests or flights of the rotatable auger 106 along the auger axis A) may be selected. A The axial distance) can be variable. For example, along the axis A of the screw conveyor A , the pitch defined by the threads may increase from one lateral end to the opposite lateral end (e.g., at a constant or variable pitch ratio relative to the axial distance). Thus, the pitch of the rotatable screw conveyor 106 may generally be A One side to the screw conveyor axis A A The other side changes or increases.

[0057] In some embodiments, the rotatable auger 106 includes a plurality of discrete auger segments that are individually rotatable. Such auger segments may be axially spaced apart (e.g., along the auger axis A). A Alternatively, such separate auger segments may still be coaxial (eg, may be arranged around the same auger axis A). A rotatable). Optionally, at least a first auger segment 106a and a second auger segment 106b may be included and movable (e.g., rotatable) relative to each other. For example, a separate auger motor (e.g., from a plurality of auger motors), a gear system, or a drive shaft may be provided to rotate the first auger segment 106a at a separate time or at a separate rotation rate relative to the second auger segment 106b. In some embodiments, the first auger segment 106a (or the second auger segment 106b) is configured to overtake the second auger segment 106b (or the first auger segment 106a), such as by selective gears or sliding gears, and thereby reduce the rotational resistance at the auger or otherwise significantly make it easier for a user to turn the snowblower 100 during use. In additional or alternative embodiments, the rotatable auger 106 includes three discrete segments. Alternatively, a pair of fixed helical segments may be provided at opposite lateral sides of the rotatable auger 106, with an intermediate helix (eg, between the two fixed helices) provided as an articulated helix.

[0058] Now turn to Fig.10 as well as Fig.11 and Fig.12, some embodiments include a breaker collar 170 disposed on the frame 102. In particular, the breaker collar 170 is disposed upstream of the chute body 116. For example, the breaker collar 170 can be installed within the outlet opening 162 (e.g., to guide or block snow from passing therethrough). As shown, the breaker collar 170 includes one or more radial blades 172 that are generally oriented toward the chute axis A. C The radial blades 172 are generally fixed within the frame 102 and thus do not move relative to the frame 102. Although the radial blades 172 are generally fixed within the frame 102, they are not movable relative to the frame 102. C The radial blade 172 may extend, but the distal end (eg, distal to the collar body 174) of the radial blade 172 may still be aligned with the slot axis A. C The radial blades 172 may further include a plurality of rigid radial blades 172 that are radially spaced apart (eg, not reaching the center of the outlet opening 162). C Radially spaced apart.

[0059] Generally, the radial blades 172 partially block the passage to the chute body 116 to advantageously disperse snow from the rotatable auger 106 to the chute body 116 and thereby prevent clogging. Any suitable shape of radial blades 172 may be provided. As an example, and as Fig.11 As shown in , the radial blades 172 may be formed according to the vortex shape, such as by configuring one or more of the radial blades 172 as curved cantilever blades. As another example, and as shown in Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the radial blades 172 may be formed according to a multi-hole shape, such as by configuring one or more of the radial blades 172 as a tab blade defining an anchor of a corresponding hole (eg, parallel to the chute axis A). C ).

[0060] Further aspects of the present invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0061] Embodiment 1. A snowblower comprising: a frame defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the outlet opening being circumferentially defined around a chute axis; a rotatable auger mounted to the frame rearward from the inlet opening and below the outlet opening so as to propel snow to the outlet opening; one or more wheels mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable auger to support the snowblower; and a chute body extending from the frame along the chute axis above the outlet opening, wherein the outlet opening defines an average cross-sectional area of ​​a ratio of an enclosed outlet volume to an outlet height and an opening ratio of a ratio of the average cross-sectional area to the outlet height, and wherein the opening ratio is greater than or equal to 350.

[0062] Embodiment 2. The snowblower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the frame surrounds the chute axis to define an outlet opening and an enclosed volume along the chute axis for the entire outlet height.

[0063] Embodiment 3. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall and a top wall, the pair of side walls defining an inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by the top wall.

[0064] Embodiment 4. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the opening ratio is greater than 1000.

[0065] Embodiment 5. The snowblower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the opening ratio is less than 2000.

[0066] Embodiment 6. The snowblower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the chute body defines an unenclosed slot perpendicular to the chute axis and extending from the outlet along the chute body.

[0067] Embodiment 7. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more wheels define a wheel axis, the wheel axis is parallel to the lateral direction and the one or more wheels rotate around the wheel axis, and wherein the rotatable auger defines an auger axis, the auger axis is not parallel to the lateral direction and the rotatable auger rotates around the auger axis.

[0068] Embodiment 8. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the rotatable auger comprises a first auger segment and a second auger segment movable relative to the first auger segment, the second auger segment being spaced apart from the first auger segment along the auger axis.

[0069] Embodiment 9. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, further comprising a breaker collar, which is disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body, the breaker collar comprising one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis so as to disperse snow from the screw conveyor to the chute body.

[0070] Embodiment 10. The snowblower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more radial arms include a plurality of rigid radial blades radially spaced from the chute axis.

[0071] Embodiment 11. A snow blower comprising: a frame defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening; a rotatable auger defining an auger axis and mounted to the frame rearward from the inlet opening so as to propel snow to the outlet opening, the rotatable auger comprising a first auger segment and a second auger segment movable relative to the first auger segment, the second auger segment being spaced apart from the first auger segment along the auger axis; one or more wheels mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable auger to support the snow blower; and a chute body extending from the frame downstream of the outlet opening and the rotatable auger.

[0072] Embodiment 12. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall, and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining an inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by the upper wall.

[0073] Embodiment 13. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the frame includes an auger housing, the auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining an inlet opening, and the outlet opening being defined by one of the pair of side walls.

[0074] Embodiment 14. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more wheels define a wheel axis, which is parallel to the lateral direction and the one or more wheels rotate around the wheel axis, and wherein the rotatable auger defines an auger axis, which is not parallel to the lateral direction and the rotatable auger rotates around the auger axis.

[0075] Embodiment 15. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, further comprising a breaker collar disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body, the breaker collar comprising one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis so as to disperse snow from the screw conveyor to the chute body.

[0076] Embodiment 16. The snowblower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more radial arms include a plurality of rigid radial blades radially spaced from the chute axis.

[0077] Embodiment 17. A snowblower comprising: a frame defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the outlet opening being circumferentially defined around a chute axis; a rotatable screw conveyor mounted to the frame rearward from the inlet opening and below the outlet opening so as to propel snow to the outlet opening; one or more wheels mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable screw conveyor to support the snowblower; a chute body extending from the frame along the chute axis downstream of the outlet opening; and a breaker collar disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body, the breaker collar comprising one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis so as to disperse snow from the screw conveyor to the chute body.

[0078] Embodiment 18. The snowblower of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more radial arms include a plurality of rigid radial blades radially spaced from the chute axis.

[0079] Embodiment 19. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall, and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining an inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by the upper wall.

[0080] Embodiment 20. A snowblower according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the frame includes an auger housing, the auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining an inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by one of the pair of side walls.

[0081] This written description uses examples including the best mode to disclose the utility model, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the utility model, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patentable scope of the utility model is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If such other examples include structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if such other examples include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims, such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A snow blower, characterized in that: The snow blower comprises: a frame defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the outlet opening being bounded circumferentially about the chute axis; a rotatable auger mounted to the frame rearwardly from the inlet opening and below the outlet opening for urging snow to the outlet opening; one or more wheels mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable auger to support the snowblower; and a chute body extending from the frame along the chute axis above the outlet opening, wherein the outlet opening defines an average cross-sectional area of ​​the enclosed outlet volume to the outlet height and an opening ratio of the average cross-sectional area to the outlet height, and Wherein, the opening ratio is greater than or equal to 350.

2. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The frame surrounds the chute axis to define the outlet opening and the enclosed outlet volume along the chute axis for the entire outlet height.

3. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, a rear wall, and a top wall, the pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by the top wall.

4. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The opening ratio is greater than 1000.

5. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The opening ratio is less than 2000.

6. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chute body defines an unenclosed slot that is perpendicular to the chute axis and extends from the outlet opening along the chute body.

7. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more wheels define a wheel axis which is parallel to the lateral direction and about which the one or more wheels rotate, and wherein the rotatable auger defines an auger axis which is not parallel to the lateral direction and about which the rotatable auger rotates.

8. The snow blower according to claim 7, characterized in that: The rotatable auger includes a first auger segment and a second auger segment movable relative to the first auger segment, the second auger segment being spaced apart from the first auger segment along the auger axis.

9. The snow blower according to claim 1, characterized in that: The snowblower also includes a breaker collar disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body, the breaker collar including one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis to disperse snow from the rotatable auger to the chute body.

10. The snow blower according to claim 9, characterized in that The one or more radial blades include a plurality of rigid radial blades radially spaced from the chute axis.

11. A snow blower, characterized in that: The snow blower comprises: a frame defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening; a rotatable auger defining an auger axis and mounted to the frame rearwardly from the inlet opening for urging snow to the outlet opening, the rotatable auger including a first auger segment and a second auger segment movable relative to the first auger segment, the second auger segment being spaced from the first auger segment along the auger axis; one or more wheels mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable auger to support the snowblower; and A chute body extends from the frame downstream of the outlet opening and the rotatable auger.

12. The snow blower according to claim 11, characterized in that The frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, a rear wall, and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by the upper wall.

13. The snow blower according to claim 11, characterized in that The frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall, and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by one of the pair of side walls.

14. The snow blower according to claim 11, characterized in that The one or more wheels define a wheel axis which is parallel to the lateral direction and about which the one or more wheels rotate, and wherein the rotatable auger defines an auger axis which is not parallel to the lateral direction and about which the rotatable auger rotates.

15. The snow blower according to claim 11, characterized in that The snowblower also includes a breaker collar disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body, the breaker collar including one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis to disperse snow from the rotatable auger to the chute body.

16. The snow blower according to claim 15, characterized in that The one or more radial blades include a plurality of rigid radial blades radially spaced from the chute axis.

17. A snow blower, characterized in that: The snow blower comprises: a frame defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the outlet opening being bounded circumferentially about the chute axis; a rotatable auger mounted to the frame rearwardly from the inlet opening and below the outlet opening for urging snow to the outlet opening; one or more wheels mounted to the frame separately from the rotatable auger to support the snowblower; a chute body extending from the frame along the chute axis downstream of the outlet opening; and A breaker collar is disposed on the frame upstream of the chute body, the breaker collar including one or more radial blades extending toward the chute axis for dispersing snow from the rotatable auger to the chute body.

18. The snow blower according to claim 17, characterized in that The one or more radial blades include a plurality of rigid radial blades radially spaced from the chute axis.

19. The snow blower according to claim 17, characterized in that The frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, a rear wall, and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by the upper wall.

20. The snow blower of claim 17, wherein: The frame includes an auger housing including a pair of side walls, a rear wall, and an upper wall, the pair of side walls defining the inlet opening, the outlet opening being defined by one of the pair of side walls.

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