Apparatus and methods for collecting foreign object debris using a modular RAMP-and-tip sweeper with offset wheel layout for grooved surfaces

Abstract

A system and method for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris (FOD) with an offset wheel layout is disclosed. The foreign object debris system consists of one or more debris collection modules with an offset wheel layout (i.e., staggered wheels) and can be deployed in various width configurations. The staggered wheel layout helps to reduce vibration on grooved surfaces such as airport runways. Debris collection modules can be pulled, pushed, attached to moving equipment, vehicles or to a tow trailer to provide motion. Each pickup module consists of a frame, a debris bin area, a brush, one or more rigid ramp(s) with replaceable tip(s). Multiple debris collection modules can be connected to form a wider or narrower sweeping width. As the foreign object debris system travels forward, debris travels up the tip(s) and ramp(s) and is deposited into a debris bin.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR COLLECTING FOREIGN OBJECT DEBRIS USING A MODULAR RAMP-AND-TIP SWEEPER WITH OFFSET WHEEL LAYOUT FOR GROOVED SURFACESCross Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of US Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 827698, entitled "APPARATUS FOR COLLECTION OF NON-METALLIC AND METALLIC FOREIGN OBJECT DEBRIS", filed on September 07, 2024, and US Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 760733, entitled "APPARATUS FOR COLLECTION OF NON-METALLIC AND METALLIC FOREIGN OBJECT DEBRIS WITH OFFSET WHEEL LAYOUT", filed on February 20, 2025, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Background

[0002] The field of disclosure relates to sweepers and towable debris collectors for foreign object debris (FOD) removal from paved surfaces, particularly grooved airport runways, aprons, and roads.

[0003] Roads, airfields and other hard surfaces where vehicles, aircraft and equipment travel can become littered with foreign object debris (FOD) which has the potential to damage vehicles, aircraft and equipment, or in some cases harm people, directly or indirectly. This debris can include but is not limited to tire fragments, rocks, gravel, sand, fasteners, paper, brush bristles, tools, nails, zipper pulls and vehicle parts. The debris can be both metallic and non-metallic.

[0004] FOD such as tire fragments, rocks, sand, fasteners, and tools poses hazards to vehicles and aircraft. Existing solutions include magnetic bars (effective only for ferrous debris), friction mats towed at speed, and large broom / vacuum trucks that are costly to operate. There remains a need for a compact, modular device that captures both metallic and non-metallic debris. The device should be capable of traversing grooved runways with low vibration (e.g., grooves approximately 6x6 mm on 38 mm centers), as traditional small solid wheels can "beat" in the grooves at speed.

[0005] Vehicles which encounter these larger objects have the potential of causing damage which could result in a loss of control and endanger the occupants. Similarly jet turbines mounted low on aircraft can ingest the debris and cause expensive damage or possibly harm the occupants. FOD programs exist to collect this dangerous debris using a variety of methods. Large debris can be collected by hand andsmaller debris can be collected or pushed away from active areas using brushes or vacuums. Collecting debris by hand on an active roadway can be a dangerous job and an effective tool would be beneficial.

[0006] There is a desire for a device configured for collection of foreign object debris. A study at Chicago O'Hare Airport found that by weight only 20% of FOD is metallic and can be collected using a magnet, and that 71% of the debris collected is less than three cubic inches in size.

[0007] Furthermore, an increasing number of airports are using lateral runway grooves to reduce the chance of aircraft hydroplaning. Runway grooves are 6mm wide x 6mm deep and spaced 38mm between centers. Small devices with hard wheels and no suspension will tend to bounce when travelling, particularly at high speeds. This bouncing could cause damage to the device and could introduce FOD to the runway.

[0008] There is a further desire to address damage to the device when used on airport runways.Summary

[0009] A system and method for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris (FOD) with an offset wheel layout is disclosed. The foreign object debris system consists of one or more debris collection modules with an offset wheel layout (i.e., staggered wheels) and can be deployed in various width configurations. The staggered wheel layout helps to reduce vibration on grooved surfaces such as airport runways. Debris collection modules can be pulled, pushed, attached to moving equipment, vehicles or to a tow trailer to provide motion. Each pickup module consists of a frame, a debris bin area, a brush, one or more rigid ramp(s) with replaceable tip(s). Multiple debris collection modules can be connected to form a wider or narrower sweeping width. As the foreign object debris system travels forward, debris travels up the tip(s) and ramp(s) and is deposited into a debris bin.

[0010] Disclosed is a modular debris collection module comprising a chassis on wheels, a leading brush, and a ramp-and-replaceable-tip assembly with riffles that convey debris into a bin. Multiple modules couple to a tow trailer for narrow-to-wide sweeping. An offset wheel layout (staggered wheels): left / right wheels of each pair are laterally offset by X = g / 2, and front / rear pairs are longitudinally spaced by Y = n-g + g / 4 where g is the groove spacing and n is an integer. This geometry reduces synchronous groove-induced bounce, thereby smoothing module motion on grooved runways and improving debris capture.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a perspective view of an exemplary debris collection module.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a side view of the debris collection module.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a perspective view of the debris collection module with a cover.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a perspective view of the debris collection module with the cover open.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a perspective bottom view of the debris collection module.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a side view of an exemplary ramp layout.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a side view of a ramp layout with a sprung tip.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a perspective view of a ramp assembly.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a close-up view of the ramp tip connection.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary front supported tip.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary large debris tip.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary sprung tip.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary unsupported tip.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a diagram of a close-up view of the brush pivot detail.

[0025] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a close-up view of the brush pivot detail with a wear plate.

[0026] FIG. 16 is a diagram of a close-up view of the module connection clip detail.

[0027] FIG. 17 is a diagram of a close-up view of the pivoting link to tow trailer.

[0028] FIG. 18 is a diagram of a close-up view of connected modules.

[0029] FIG. 19 is a diagram of a wide sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation.

[0030] FIG. 20 is a diagram of a narrow sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation.

[0031] FIG. 21 is a diagram of an alternate narrow sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation.

[0032] FIG. 22 is a diagram of a travel configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules.

[0033] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an alternate debris collection module design.

[0034] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an alternate debris collection module assembly design.

[0035] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment of a small debris system with a large debris system.

[0036] FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an alternate debris collection module with skid plates.

[0037] FIG. 27: Offset wheel layout (top and side) defining X = g / 2 and Y = n-g + g / 4.Detailed Description

[0038] The purpose of this disclosure is a device is to collect debris that is unsightly or has the potential to damage equipment or endanger life. A debris collection module is disclosed. Each module houses one or more ramp(s) and tip(s) mounted at an angle to the ground surface which when moving forward scoop debris from the surface. A brush is mounted ahead of the ramp(s) and tip(s) to disrupt small debris and cause it to become airborne where the ramps can capture it. Each ramp has a series of riffles to prevent debris from returning to the ground surface. The ramp(s) have replaceable tip(s) to extend the overall lifetime of the device and reduce lifetime costs.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a perspective view of an exemplary debris collection module. According to FIG. 1, debris collection module 100, has a chassis 102 with dimensions of 22" width X 20" length X 4" height with an approximate weight of 20 lbs. Debris collection module also has module connection clips 104 and wheels 106 that moves in the direction of travel. The module connection clips 104 connect the debris collection module 100 to a tow trailer or to other debris collection modules.

[0040] According to FIG. 1, a debris collection module chassis 102 is suspended by wheels 106 and drawn by a module connection clips 104. The wheels 106 allow the debris collection modules to move easily and control the distance ramp tip(s) are from the ground. They also control the amount of downward pressure unsupported ramp tip(s) can exert. The wheels also help to ensure even wear on all wear parts. The module connection clips 104 allow the linking of several modules to each other to provide rigidity and still allow flexibility for surface conformance when being towed.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a side view of the debris collection module. According to FIG. 2, debris collection module 200 further comprises debris bin 202 located near the proximal end and wheels 204 that ensure even wear on all wear parts. Wheels 204 are made of polyurethane, but other materials such as plastic and rubber can be considered.

[0042] According to FIG. 2, one (or more) rows of ramp assemblies 206 are placed near the center of the bottom surface of the debris collection module 200. A ramp assembly consists of a ramp and tip. The ramp assemblies 206 scoop debris from the ground surface. The ramps 206 are angled upwards towards the debris bin and further consists of riffles 208. The riffles 208 are configured to contain debris that does not have enough energy to get into the debris bin.

[0043] According to FIG. 2, a row of brushes 210 is placed at the leading end of the debris collection module 200. The brushes 210 disrupt and agitate small debris and allow it to be scooped by the ramps 206. The brushes can also make small particles such as sand and stones airborne, so they are easily collected by the ramps. The brushes are mounted on a pivot 212 to extend the usable life of the brushes. Furthermore, wear plates if used can control further brush erosion.

[0044] According to FIG. 2, the debris collection module 200 is also shown with module connection clips 214 to link separate modules together or to a tow trailer.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a perspective view of the debris collection module with a cover. According to FIG. 3, debris collection module 300 a cover 302, placed on the top surface of the debris collection module 300 and is held in place with magnets for easy removal and inspection of the debris collection module. The cover also allows airflow to aid in the collection and movement of collected debris into the debris bins.

[0046] According to FIG. 3, debris collection module 300 further comprises a module stacking flange 304 and a ramp tip replacement cover 306. The module stacking flange 304 is configured to enable multiple debris collection modules to be able to stack on top of each other. The ramp tip replacement cover 306 is a plate that can be open (and closed) to allow access to the ramp tips 206 to be maintained or replaced.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a perspective view of the debris collection module with the cover open. According to FIG. 4, debris collection module 400 is shown having a cover 402 opened. The bottom surface of cover 402 is lined with a plurality of magnets 404. Cover 402 is kept closed with magnets 404.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a perspective bottom view of the debris collection module. According to FIG. 5, debris collection module 500 is shown having debris bin 502 and module stacking flange 506.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a side view of a typical ramp layout. According to FIG. 6, the rigid ramp(s) 602 along with flexible tip(s) 604 and 606 are configured as a typical ramp layout 600. The typical ramp layout 600 comprises of a rigid ramp 602 with a slot for flexible tips (a flexible tip 604 and a flexible tip 606) to be installed, and a wear range 608. The tips (tip 604 and tip 606) can be made from a range of materials and hardnesses depending on where it will be used. Additionally, the tip(s) can have specialized features for use on different surfaces (as shown in FIG. 10 - 13).

[0050] According to FIG. 6, the ramp layout 600 consists of a ramp 602 with riffles and a removeable and replaceable tip(s) 604 and 606 close to or contacting the ground surface. The tip(s) 606 has a wear range 608. The tip(s) 604 and 606 can be replaced after the tips(s) are worn.

[0051] According to FIG. 6, the lead in 610 on tip 606 guides the edge over obstructions. Furthermore, the tip 606 engages with the ramp 602 contact point 612 to reduce the chance of the tip 606 rolling under the ramp 602. Furthermore, the tip 604 remains above the ground surface 614 to not catch / snag on edges, cracks or vegetation. Tip 604 also provides an unobstructed opening from side to side of the debris collection module for collection of large debris.

[0052] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a side view of the ramp layout with a sprung tip. According to FIG. 7, ramp layout with sprung tips 700 further comprises a flexible feature 702 to maintain downward pressure on the tip.

[0053] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a perspective view of a ramp assembly. According to FIG. 8, ramp assembly 800 consists of ramp 806 and tip(s) 802 are inserted into a ramp 806. Individual tip(s) 802 can be replaced if they are damaged or worn out. Tip(s) 802 are made of polyurethane material and the ramp 806 is made of aluminum material. Other materials can also be used.

[0054] According to FIGURES 6 - 8, a series of ramp(s) 806 with riffles held at an angle in a chassis to scoop debris from the ground surface are shown. As the debris makes its way to the top of the ramps, the debris falls into a debris bin just behind the ramp(s). A brush 210 (shown in FIG. 2) precedes the ramp(s) to disrupt small debris lodged in the ground surface. Additionally, the brush 210 serves as a curtain to restrict larger debris from being propelled forwards due to impacting the ramps and increases the chance of capturing debris.

[0055] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a close-up view of the tip connection. According to FIG. 9, a close-up of tip connection detail 900 is shown to include ramp 902, tip locking feature 904 and tip 906. The tip locking feature 904 is shown to securely connect (or mate) the ramp 902 to the tip 906.

[0056] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary front supported tip. According to FIG. 10, front supported tip 1000 is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A-A. According to section view A-A, front supported tip 1000 further comprises a surface 1002 to prevent tip from being pulled under the ramp, a lead in 1004 on the supported tip guides the edge over obstructions and a riffle 1006 to prevent debris from falling back to the ground.

[0057] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary large debris tip. According to FIG. 11, large debris tip 1100 is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A- A. According to section view A-A, large debris tip 1100 sits above ground 1102 to capture large debris and not interfere with an uneven surface.

[0058] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary sprung tip. According to FIG. 12, sprung tip 1200 is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A-A. According to section view A-A, sprung tip 1200 further comprises a flexible feature 1202 to maintain downward pressure of tip, a surface 1204 to prevent the tip from being pulled under the ramp, a lead in 1206 on the tip that guides the edge over obstructions and a riffle 1208 to prevent debris from falling back to ground.

[0059] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary unsupported tip. According to FIG. 13, unsupported tip 1300 is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A- A. The unsupported tip is designed to work best on very flat even surfaces, with minimal obstacles such as joints, grooving or vegetation.

[0060] FIG. 14 is a diagram of a close-up view of the brush pivot detail. According to FIG. 14, brush pivot detail 1400 is shown replacing worn brushes 1402 with replacement brush strips 1404. Brush pivot detail 1400 further comprises a brush wear indicator 1406 attached to a brush pivot 1408.

[0061] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a close-up view of the brush pivot detail with a wear plate. According to FIG. 15, brush pivot detail with wear plate 1500 is shown further comprising a brush wear indicator 1502 and brush wear plate 1504.

[0062] FIG. 16 is a diagram of a close-up view of the module connection clip detail. According to FIG. 16, module connection clip detail 1600 is shown having a hook 1602 and latch 1604.

[0063] FIG. 17 is a diagram of a close-up view of the pivoting link to trailer connection link. According to FIG. 17, a pivoting link to trailer diagram 1700 is shown connecting debris collection module 1702 to tow trailer 1704 using a pivoting link 1706.

[0064] FIG. 18 is a diagram of a close-up view of connected modules. According to FIG. 18, connected modules 1800 is shown connecting debris collection modules together with module connection clips 1802 and to the tow trailer with pivoting link 1804.

[0065] FIGURES 19 to 22 illustrate different configurations. Multiple debris collection modules can be connected to a tow trailer. The tow trailer can have folding side arms, a travel rack and a hitch to be towed by a vehicle.

[0066] FIG. 19 is a diagram of a wide sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation according to direction of travel. According to FIG. 19, the wide sweeping configuration 1900 consists of a tow trailer 1902 and multiple debris collection modules 1904 and hinged and wheeled side arms 1906 to conform to the ground.

[0067] According to FIG. 19, the debris collection modules 1904 are positioned into two rows. In this embodiment, the front row of debris collection modules 1904 are connected to tow trailer 1902 and therear row of linked debris collection modules 1904 are connected to the front row of debris collection modules 1904 using the module connection clips. Vertical flags 1908 are also shown to indicate the width of the tow trailer 1902.

[0068] FIG. 20 is a diagram of a narrow sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation. According to FIG. 20, two of the side arms 2004 of the tow trailer 2002 are folded upwards for travel or narrow sweeping. In narrow sweeping configuration, only three of the collection modules are deployed in the front row with two additional debris collection modules in the rear row. Unused debris collection modules 2008 are stored on the tow trailer.

[0069] FIG. 21 is a diagram of an alternate narrow sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation according to the direction of travel. According to FIG. 21, alternate narrow sweeping configuration 2100 comprises tow trailer 2102 without folding side arms. All debris collection modules 2104 are shown to be deployed.

[0070] FIG. 22 is a diagram of a travel configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in the direction of travel. According to FIG. 22, in a travel configuration 2200, the side arms 2204 of the tow trailer 2202 are folded. The debris collection modules 2206 are stacked on the travel rack 2208.

[0071] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an alternate debris collection module design. According to FIG. 23, alternate debris collection module 2300 comprises a debris collection chassis 2302 without wheels. According to FIG. 23, debris collection module chassis 2302 further comprises slots 2304 to allow height adjustment of the debris collection module chassis 2302 to conform to uneven ground. Debris collection module 2300 has a module connection slot 2306 to allow for variable widths.

[0072] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an alternate module assembly design. According to FIG. 24, alternate module assembly configuration 2400 consists of a frame 2404 to slot together multiple debris collection modules 2402.

[0073] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment of a small debris collection system 2502 with a large debris system 2504 in operation in the direction of travel. According to FIG. 25, alternate embodiment 2500 a small debris system 2502 and a larger debris system 2504.

[0074] FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment 2600 of the debris collection module with skid plates 2602 attached to the wheel mounting bolts 2604. According to FIG. 26, skid plates 2602 are affixed to the debris collection module 2600 in place of wheels.Features

[0075] Unique features of the apparatus for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris may include one or more of the following:• Collects non-metallic debris as well as metallic debris• Modular design, allowing for easy expansion, better tracking of the ground surface as shown in FIG. 19 - 21• Removable tips allow for replacement of worn tips or installation of tip designed for different surfaces or environments as shown in FIG. 10 - 13• Ramp design providing rigidity for wider and larger debris collection modules as necessary• The frame could use skid plates rather than wheels• Rather than linking modules together to increase width, a single wider module could be used as shown in FIG. 23 - 24• Additional debris collection modules can be added for increased performance• Tip(s) can have a feature to maintain ground pressure as shown in FIG. 7• Self-contained debris bin• Debris collection modules can be stacked for transporting• Pivoting brush increases brush life and maintains constant ground contact• Ramp profile can collect and retain debris• Easy to replace tip(s)• The top cover can be opened for easy access, inspection and clean out• Debris collection modules run on replaceable wheels• Modular design can conform to terrain and connects to a tow trailer• Module connection clips and pivoting links provide stability and flexibility• Debris bin collects picked up debris• Parts are replaceable• Debris collection modules can be backed upAdditional Features

[0076] Additional features of the disclosure may include:• Incorporating a rotating brush for lower speed sweeping• Incorporating a blower to disturb or direct debris• Automatic unloading of debris bin• Debris conveyor on the ramp to increase debris capacity• Independent movement of each wear parts (i.e., ramps) could lead to longer lifetimes• Ability to collect very large debris• No motors required, lower operating costs• On board debris storage on tow trailer allows debris to be contained when sweeping larger areas• A high strength magnet can precede the debris collection modules, thereby decreasing the volume of debris in the bin and extending the sweeping time before cleanout.• An additional high strength magnet after the debris collection modules to catch fine metallic particles such as steel shot which could bypass the main collection system• Different bristle materials can be usedOffset Wheel Layout

[0077] According to the disclosure, one objective of the disclosure is to reduce vibrations whereby the wheels can be offset to ensure that the majority of the wheels will be on the main surface at any given time. Lateral wheels are offset by % of groove spacing. The front and rear wheel pairs are spaced by a multiple of full grooves plus any additional % groove.

[0078] FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary collection module with offset wheel layout. According to FIG. 27, diagram 2700 shows a top plan view and a left-side view of an exemplary collection module with offset wheel layout or staggered wheel configuration is shown.

[0079] According to FIG. 27, grooves (g) are cut into the airport runway. The grooves enable water to escape when the airplane hits the runway and prevents or reduces hydroplaning. The collection module has an offset distance (X) on each pair of offset wheels, offset wheel pairs are spaced apart by Y distance,and n is the number of full grooves between the front and rear wheels to achieve the desired wheelbase.The x and y lengths are calculated as follows:X = g / 2Y = ng + g / 4

[0080] According to the disclosure, the wheel when striking the grooves makes a clunking sound and bounces at a certain frequency. Parallel set of wheels will go down in the groove at the same time. With staggered wheels, 1 wheel goes over the groove while the other one goes down in the groove, which holds the collection module in place (i.e., prevents the collection module from sinking into the groove entirely).System Components

[0081] According to Figures 1 to 27 a modular ramp and tip sweeper system with an offset wheel layout is disclosed. The sweeper system comprises the following components:

[0082] Baseline module: Each debris collection module 100 (approx. 22"x20"x4", ~20 lb example) has a chassis 102, connection clips 104, and wheels 106 that set tip clearance and pressure and promote even wear. A debris bin resides near the rear, and one or more ramp assemblies with riffles are mounted between a leading brush and the bin. The brush is mounted on a pivot and can include a wear indicator and wear plate; the ramp accepts replaceable tips tailored to surface conditions. A magnet-held cover allows inspection / airflow and a stacking flange facilitates storage of multiple modules.

[0083] Ramp and tip variants: Tip types include front-supported, large-debris, sprung, and unsupported designs, each with a lead-in to pass obstructions and geometry to avoid rolling under the ramp; riffles prevent fall-back of debris.

[0084] Trailer and multi-module arrays: Modules link via connection clips and can be coupled to a tow trailer using a pivoting link; the trailer can have foldable side arms for wide / narrow modes and provide on-board storage for unused modules.

[0085] Offset wheel layout for grooved surfaces: On grooved runways (e.g., grooves g = 38 mm center spacing, depth / width ~ 6 mm), parallel wheels may bounce in phase at the groove frequency. To desynchronize, lateral wheel offset X = g / 2 places one wheel cresting while the other is centered in a groove; longitudinal wheelbase spacing Y = n-g + g / 4 staggers front vs. rear wheel encounters bya quarter-groove. This bias maintains at least one wheel on "crest," reducing vertical oscillation and sound ("clunking"), improving stability and debris capture. Example at FAA standard: g = 38 mm => X = 19 mm; Y = n-38 mm + 9.5 mm (e.g., tor n = 4, compute 4x38 = 152; 152 + 9.5 = 161.5 mm). Wheels may be solid and rigidly mounted whereby three or more wheels per side may be used.

[0086] Optional features: A lead magnet ahead of the modules can pre-capture ferrous FOD; a trailing magnet can capture fine metallics. Furthermore, rotating brushes or air blowers may be added for low-speed or embedded debris; skid plates may replace wheels for particular surfaces.

[0087] According to the disclosure, wheels are rigidly connected to the frame and are solid. Additional sets of wheels (i.e., three or more per side) can also be implemented. According to the disclosure, this wheel configuration is not limited to airport runways and can be applied wherever regularly spaced grooves are used.

[0088] According to the disclosure, a debris collection apparatus for the collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris, configured for motion is disclosed. The debris collection apparatus comprises a chassis, a plurality of wheels mounted on the chassis, a debris bin mounted at the distal end, a brush mounted at the proximal end, a ramp and tip assembly mounted between the brush and debris bin, the ramp and tip assembly further comprising one or more rigid main ramps with riffles and side wheels. The debris collection apparatus further comprises a latch to connect the apparatus to a tow trailer.

[0089] According to the disclosure, foreign object debris is collected by the brush, tips, ramps and deposited into the debris bin of the debris collection apparatus in the direction of motion. The debris collection apparatus further comprises a cover configured to be held in place with magnets.

[0090] According to the disclosure, the brushes of the debris collection apparatus are mounted on a pivot to extend the use life of the brushes.

[0091] According to the disclosure, the one or more rows of ramps with or without tips of the debris collection apparatus are placed near the center of the bottom surface of the debris collection module. The one or more sets of ramps with or without tips scoop debris from the ground surface and wherein the ramps are angled towards the debris bin and further consist of riffles.

[0092] According to the disclosure, the wheels on the sides of the debris collection apparatus help to ensure even wear on all parts. Furthermore, the debris collection apparatus further comprises wear plates configured to control brush erosion.

[0093] According to the disclosure, the debris collection apparatus further comprises a module stacking flange configured to a multiple apparatus to be able to stack on top of each other.

[0094] According to the disclosure, the debris collection apparatus further comprises a ramp tip replacement plate that can be open and closed to allow access to the tips to be maintained or replaced. The debris collection apparatus further comprises a brush wear indicator and a brush pivot.

[0095] According to the disclosure, a modular debris collection apparatus for grooved surfaces includes a chassis on wheels, a leading brush, a ramp-and-replaceable-tip assembly with riffles, and a debris bin. To mitigate runway-groove-induced vibration, left / right wheels of each pair are laterally offset by X = g / 2 and front / rear pairs are spaced by Y = n-g + g / 4, where g is the runway groove spacing and n is an integer. Multiple modules can be coupled to a tow trailer for adjustable sweeping widths. During travel, the brush agitates debris, the tip lifts debris onto the ramp, the riffles retain debris, and debris is deposited into the bin. Optional magnets, wear indicators, and tip variants are disclosed.

[0096] According to the disclosure, a debris collection apparatus for the collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris from a grooved paved surface is disclosed. The debris collection apparatus comprises a chassis, a brush mounted at the proximal end or leading end, a plurality of wheels mounted on the chassis and supporting the chassis; a debris bin mounted at the distal end, and a ramp and tip assembly mounted between the brush and debris bin. The ramp and tip assembly further comprising at least one rigid main ramp having riffles and a replaceable tip located adjacent to the surface.

[0097] According to the disclosure, the left and right wheels of a common axle position of the chassis are laterally offset by X = g / 2, and front and rear wheel positions are longitudinally spaced by Y = n-g + g / 4, with g being a spacing between adjacent grooves of the surface and n an integer, thereby reducing groove-induced vertical oscillation during travel. According to the formula above, g is 38 mm ±3 mm and grooves are 6 mm ±1.6 mm in width and depth.

[0098] According to the disclosure, the wheels of the apparatus are solid and rigidly mounted to the chassis. The brush of the apparatus is pivot-mounted and includes a wear indicator and an optional wear plate.

[0099] According to the disclosure, the replaceable tip is selected from a front-supported tip, a sprung tip, a large-debris tip, or an unsupported tip. The apparatus further comprises a cover over the chassis held by magnets, and a stacking flange for stacking multiple modules. The apparatus further comprises at least one magnet preceding or trailing the ramp-and-tip assembly to collect ferrous debris.[000100] According to the further embodiments of the disclosure, multiple apparatuses may be coupled side-by-side and / or fore-aft via connection clips and linked to a tow trailer by a pivoting link.[000101] According to the disclosure, the ramp of the apparatus is inclined by 10-30 degrees relative to the surface and includes riffles, the riffles configured to inhibit backward movement of captured debris.[000102] According to the disclosure, a system comprising a tow trailer and a plurality of the apparatus, the trailer including foldable side arms to select between wide and narrow sweeping widths and on-board storage for unused modules. The offset wheel layout of adjacent modules is coordinated such that wheels of neighboring modules are phase-shifted laterally or longitudinally by g / 4-g / 2 to further reduce array-level vibration.[000103] According to the disclosure, a ramp-and-tip assembly for use in the aforementioned apparatus, comprises a rigid ramp with riffles and a removable tip joined by a tip-locking feature and a lead-in configured to pass obstructions. The tip is polyurethane of Shore A 70-95 and the ramp is aluminum or stainless steel.[000104] According to the disclosure, a method of collecting foreign object debris from a grooved runway using a debris collection apparatus comprising a chassis, a brush, a debris bin and a ramp and tip assembly is disclosed. The method comprising the steps of towing the apparatus along the grooved runway such that the offset wheel layout reduces groove-induced oscillation while the brush agitates debris, the tip lifts the debris onto the ramp, and the debris is retained by the riffles and deposited into the debris bin.[000105] According to the disclosure, the X and Y values of the method are chosen based on the measured g of the runway, with X = g / 2 and Y = n-g + g / 4, and g determined by sampling multiple groove spans.[000106] According to the disclosure, the ramp and tip assembly of the method is mounted between the brush and debris bin, the ramp and tip assembly further comprising at least one rigid main ramp having riffles and a replaceable tip located adjacent to the grooved runway surface.[000107] While some embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in fully functioning mechanical, electrical and electrical-mechanical systems, other embodiments may be considered.[000108] The methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions for achieving the described method. The method steps and / or actions may be interchanged with one another without departing from the scope of the claims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is required for proper operation of the method that is being described, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.[000109] The specific embodiments described above have been shown by way of example and understood is that these embodiments may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms. Further understood is that the claims are not intended to be limited to the forms disclosed, but to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. While the foregoing written description of the system enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The system should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the system. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.[000110] Information as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the abovedescribed object of the present disclosure, the presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obviousto those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims, wherein any reference to an element being made in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments as regarded by those of ordinary skill in the art are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims.[000111] Moreover, no requirement exists for a system or method to address each problem sought to be resolved by the present disclosure, for such to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. However, various changes and modifications in form, material, workpiece, and fabrication material detail may be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as set forth in the appended claims, as may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are also encompassed by the present disclosure.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A debris collection apparatus for the collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris, from a grooved paved surface, the debris collection apparatus comprising: a chassis; a brush mounted at the proximal end; a plurality of wheels mounted on the chassis and supporting the chassis; a debris bin mounted at the distal end; and a ramp and tip assembly mounted between the brush and debris bin, the ramp and tip assembly further comprising at least one rigid main ramp having riffles and a replaceable tip located adjacent to the surface; wherein the left and right wheels of a common axle position of the chassis are laterally offset by X = g / 2, and front and rear wheel positions are longitudinally spaced by Y = n-g + g / 4, with g being a spacing between adjacent grooves of the surface and n an integer, thereby reducing groove-induced vertical oscillation during travel.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein g is 38 mm ±3 mm and grooves are 6 mm ±1.6 mm in width and depth.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wheels are solid and rigidly mounted to the chassis.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the brush is pivot-mounted and includes a wear indicator and an optional wear plate.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the replaceable tip is selected from a front-supported tip, a sprung tip, a large-debris tip, or an unsupported tip.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cover over the chassis held by magnets, and a stacking flange for stacking multiple modules.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein multiple said apparatuses are coupled side-by-side and / or fore-aft via connection clips and linked to a tow trailer by a pivoting link.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at least one magnet preceding or trailing the ramp-and-tip assembly to collect ferrous debris.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ramp is inclined by 10-30 degrees relative to the surface and includes riffles, the riffles configured to inhibit backward movement of captured debris.

10. A system comprising a tow trailer and a plurality of the apparatus of claim 1, the trailer including foldable side arms to select between wide and narrow sweeping widths and on-board storage for unused modules.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the offset wheel layout of adjacent modules is coordinated such that wheels of neighboring modules are phase-shifted laterally or longitudinally by g / 4-g / 2 to further reduce array-level vibration.

12. A ramp-and-tip assembly for use in an apparatus of claim 1, comprising a rigid ramp with riffles and a removable tip joined by a tip-locking feature and a lead-in configured to pass obstructions.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the tip is polyurethane of Shore A 70-95 and the ramp is aluminum or stainless steel.

14. A method of collecting foreign object debris from a grooved runway using a debris collection apparatus comprising a chassis, a brush, a debris bin and a ramp and tip assembly, the method comprising the steps of: towing the apparatus along the grooved runway such that the offset wheel layout reduces groove-induced oscillation while the brush agitates debris, the tip lifts the debris onto the ramp, and the debris is retained by the riffles and deposited into the debris bin.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein X and Y are chosen based on the measured g of the runway, with X = g / 2 and Y = n-g + g / 4, and g determined by sampling multiple groove spans.

16. The method of claim 14 wherein the ramp and tip assembly is mounted between the brush and debris bin, the ramp and tip assembly further comprising at least one rigid main ramp having riffles and a replaceable tip located adjacent to the grooved runway surface.

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