This is the generic class for subject matter relating to working
the earth in situ. Earth working involves physical treatment of
the earth and includes beating, compacting, crushing, cultivating,
cutting, digging, furrowing, harrowing, leveling, mixing, plowing,
pulverizing, rolling, scraping, scratching, smoothing, and tilling.
The earth is usually worked by an earth working element carried
on an apparatus traversing the ground but hand held tools such as
hoes are also included.
This class also takes subject matter, not otherwise classified
relating to the cutting and removal of sod or turf from the ground.
Apparatus comprising means other than earth working means
supported on or attached to a vehicle for manipulation in a manner
consistent with the use of the means as an earth working means is
classifiable in this class if the means is identified in a claim
by name only and the claim contains no feature otherwise inconsistent
with classification in Class 172. However, lines with other classes
have in many cases not been cleared so that where the bulk of the
existing art has been classified on a basis other than indicated
above such classification is continued.
(1)
Note. CLAIMS NOT CONTROLLING IN PATENTS PRIOR TO 1930. Patents
prior to 1930 have not necessarily been classified by claims so
that the placement of these old patents does not necessarily indicate
lines of classification. In view of the large numbers of old patents
in this class many of these patents have been classified in accordance
with their total disclosure. This is especially true of the patents
in subclasses 332+. Most of the patents, however, regardless
of their age have been placed in accordance with their claimed subject
matter.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
SUBJECT MATTER RELATING TO SNOW REMOVAL, TO WORKING THE EARTH
FOR INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES, TO COMPACTING EARTH FOR ROADS OR PAVEMENT
AND TO WORKING HARD MATERIAL IN SITU
Class 37, Excavating, generally relates to removing snow or
to working the earth for industrial purposes as by making a ditch
or moving earth by a conveyor or scoop. In many cases the devices
found in Class 37 for these purposes are indistinguishable structurally
from devices found in Class 172. Classification turns on emphasis
for a certain use, such as snow removal or ditch digging. Class
37 formerly contained subclasses 143 through 181 entitled "Scrapers" which
included subject matter relating to scraping the earth by means
of a blade or such subject matter in combination with other earth
working means such as harrows or rollers. The devices in these subclasses
were typically road graders or bulldozers for working or moving
the earth for industrial purposes. These subclasses were abolished
and the art found in them was for the most part incorporated into Class
172 and is to be found in subclasses 4.5, 26.5, 26.6, 777-809 and
other appropriate subclasses. Some of the art was specialized to
ditch filling and was placed in Class 37 subclass 142.5. The remaining
patents were not drawn to scraping blades or such blades combined
with simple earth working means and were transferred to appropriate
subclasses in Class 37 or other classes. Class 37, subclasses 104+,
Railway Graders, and subclasses 381+, Road-Grader Type,
were not cleared. Patents in these subclasses should be drawn to
devices more specialized than the general utility scrapers or "road
graders" which were classified in abolished subclasses
143-181.
Class 299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
as the title indicates, generally provides for the working of hard
earth material such as rock and also the working of ice in situ.
However, a tool which is actually of general utility in earth working,
such as a ripper tooth or scraper and traverses the earth without
relative movement with respect to its support (as by rolling or
cyclical driving) is classifiable in Class 172 even if solely disclosed
for disintegrating rock.
Class 404, Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, subclasses
117, 121, and 122+, for a roller device which performs
a simple compacting function on the earth. See the note to Class
172, under the class definition of Class 404.
JOINTS
Many of the patents relating to earth working devices claim
joints between parts of the device. A claim to a joint between two
disclosed earth working portions of an earth working apparatus,
e.g., a claim to a joint between a plow share and moldboard, is
classifiable in Class 172, subclasses 681+. Also, a claim
to an overload release joint between implement parts, e.g., between
a tractor and a device solely disclosed as an earth working type
of implement, is classifiable in Class 172, subclasses 261+ and
a claim to a spring biased joint for biasing an earth working tool
is classifiable in Class 172, subclasses 705+. However,
other claims to joints, per se, are classifiable in the various
classes relating to joints. Thus, joints of general application
are classifiable in Class 403, Joints and Connections. An articulated joint
between a tractor and a trailing vehicle, as long as that vehicle
is not solely disclosed as an implement, is classifiable in Class
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 400+.
The Search Notes below also contain lines with other classes.
Compound Tools, appropriate subclasses for miscellaneous compound tools,
especially
subclass 115 for a cutter combined with a pitch fork and subclass
116 for a cutter combined with a spade or shovel (e.g., a bayonet
and a shovel). Hand tools comprising combinations of various earth
working portions are classifiable in Class 172, Earth Working.
Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, appropriate subclasses for cleaners, including scrapers.
Class 172 takes cleaners for cleaning earth working parts, which
cleaners are intended to be attached to the earth working apparatus.
Miscellaneous Hardware (e.g., Bushing, Carpet Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel Hanger, Attachable or Adjunct Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance, etc.),
subclasses 110.1+ for handles for earth working devices, such as plows
or hoes.
Metal Working,
subclass 14 for machines and processes of making plow and cultivator
irons, subclasses 891+ for processes of making agricultural
devices, and see the subclasses there cited.
Cutlery, appropriate subclasses, for cutters of general utility
and cutters for merely making a slit in sod. A cutter for earth
working purposes such as making a slit in the soil (e.g., a colter) is
classifiable in Class 172. Thus a patent to a cutter with a claim
restricted to earth working or a sole disclosure of earth working
is classifiable in Class 172, except that a patent to a hand device
with the cutting edge extending generally in the direction of the
handle is classifiable in Class 30 even though it is restricted
to earth working. Also a tool for merely cutting a plant below the
surface of the earth is classifiable in Class 30.
Excavating,
subclasses 196+ for snow- removing apparatus which may be identical
with earth working apparatus except that it is disclosed as principally
for snow removal, subclasses 307+ for dredging apparatus, subclasses
347+ especially subclasses 366+ for ditchers which
may be very similar to earth working apparatus for Class 172 except
that they are disclosed as making an industrial ditch or trench
rather than a furrow, by more than mere scraping operation, subclasses
104+ for apparatus specialized to forming the bed or slopes
of a railway, subclasses 381+ for apparatus specialized
to working on roads and involving something more than mere scraping or
earth working apparatus of general utility, subclasses 394+ for
cable operated apparatus including cable operated scrapers involving more
than the scraper, per se, and a cable attached to the scraper, subclasses
403+ for a scraper convertible to or combined with a scoop,
shovel or other material pick up means, subclasses 411+ for
scoops which are distinguishable from scrapers classified in Class
172 in that they have a bottom for transporting material, and appropriate
subclasses for digging or moving earth in general.
Plant Husbandry, appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 1.01 and 58.1 for subject matter relating to earth working
combined with other functions relating to plant husbandry such as
heating the earth or spraying a plant. However, a moldboard type
plow with heating means for the plow is classifiable in Class 172 subclass
755.
Harvesters, appropriate subclasses for subject matter relating
to severing or chopping of crop material without disturbing the
soil and also subject matter relating to gathering or raking crop
material without substantially disturbing the soil. The line is
essentially one of disclosed use. If a device is described as a
nonearth disturbing harvesting device the patent is placed in Class
56 rather than Class 172 even if the structure claimed is the same
as that which may be found in Class 172. An exception is that if
a harvester is claimed by name only and the claim is otherwise drawn
to merely a mounting or manipulating means which is consistent with the
functioning of the named harvester as an earth working device then
the patent may be classifiable in Class 172.
With respect to the stalk chopper art, if the chopper
is disclosed as one which operates by the action of a cutter member against
the ground, without a ledger plate it is assumed that the soil is
disturbed and classification in Class 172 results. Choppers operating
above the ground level are classifiable in Class 56.
Generally Class 172 takes the combination of or the conversion
between a Class 56 apparatus and a Class 172 apparatus, or an apparatus
disclosed as having either an earth working or a harvesting function
without change. Thus a Class 172 type lawn edger combined with or convertible
to a harvester is found in Class 172, subclass 14, the combination of
other types of Class 172 devices with a harvester is in Class 172,
subclasses 27+ and the combination of a Class 172 device
with a rake is in Class 172, subclasses 29+. An exception
to the above is that a hand rake combined with or convertible to
an earth working means is classifiable in Class 56, subclasses 400.04+.
Power Plants,
subclasses 325+ , especially subclass 427 for hydraulic-type power
plants operated by liquid supplied from a pump. Many such power
plants are used in earth working apparatus. A claim to a power plant
for an earth working apparatus reciting only a tractor mounting
for the plant and a rockshaft actuated by the power plant is classifiable
in Class 60. If the claim goes beyond this and claims some detail
of the apparatus which may be only a lift arm on the rockshaft or
a draft sensing means it is classifiable in Class 172.
Metal Tools and Implements, Making,
subclass 85 for attachments other than abrading attachments
for sharpening earth working tools. An earth working apparatus combined with
a sharpening device is in Class 172, subclass 437. However, when
the earth working apparatus as claimed is only a support for the attachment
the claim is classifiable in Class 76.
Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclasses for servomotors, per se.
Many such servomotors are used in earth working apparatus. A claim
to a servomotor for an earth working apparatus reciting only a tractor mounting
and rockshaft operated by the motor is classifiable in Class 91.
However, further detail such as a lift arm on the rockshaft or a draft
sensing means causes classification in Class 172.
Railways,
subclass 169 for apparatus for reciprocating an earth working
device, claimed by name only, over the ground and subclass 244.1 for
a vehicle or earth working device claimed by name only guided along
a field by a furrow feeler. Class 172, subclasses 23+ has
significantly claimed earth working apparatus driven from or guided
by a stationary object or previously formed furrow.
Planting, appropriate subclasses for earth working means combined
with planting means, especially
subclasses 118+ for earth working means combined with means for
inserting liquid or gas into the soil, subclasses 25+ for planting
means with earth marking means, subclass 33 for earth marking means
comprising means to make an intermittent mark in the earth to indicate
the points where material should be planted, subclasses 52+ for
frame arrangements, subclass 82 for hand propelled planters, and
subclass 99 for dibbles. A Class 172 device generally may comprise
the earth working subcombination of a planting device. A planter
may be recited by name only as a support for an earth marker or
an earth working tool in a claim classifiable in Class 172. A support
for an earth working portion identified as a planting boot in a
claim is not considered too much for Class 172.
Resilient Tires and Wheels, appropriate subclasses for tires and wheels which
may be structurally similar to earth working apparatus but are not
intended to have an earth working function.
Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects, appropriate subclasses for subject matter relating
to unearthing and separating an object from the earth (e.g., a potato
digger). A Class 172 device may cut plant roots as it traverses
the ground or may turn a furrow which has objects in it such as
potatoes but devices in Class 172 do not separate an object from
the adjacent earth. A Class 172 device may be a subcombination of
a Class 171 device; for example, a plow for Class 172 may lift earth
with potatoes in it, the potatoes then being separated from the
earth, the complete device being classifiable in Class 171.
Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for subject matter directed to driving
or impacting a tool, when such subject matter includes combined
features peculiar to tool driving, but which does not include features limiting
the subject matter to a specific tool art, such as specific shape
of the work contacting portion of a tool, related tools, or an opposed work
support, and see particularly
subclasses 184+ driving or impacting means mounted on a wheeled
vehicle. Class 172 has not been cleared as to subject matter in
conflict with this line.
Boring or Penetrating the Earth, appropriate subclasses for subject matter relating to forming
elongated holes in the earth. Apparatus for forming a plurality
of small holes in the earth for aerating the soil or for like purposes
is classifiable in Class 172,
subclasses 21+ .
Motor Vehicles,
subclasses 14.1+ for vehicle trains comprising a tractor and a trailing
vehicle which may be an implement claimed by name only, subclasses
53.1+ for devices in which the motor of the motor vehicle
is used as a source of external power for a device which may be
an implement claimed by name only, and subclass 401 for power steering
devices which may be controlled by a feeler element running in a
furrow. An implement described in a claim as comprising a frame
and an earth working means carried thereby is considered to be claimed
by more than name only so that the claim would be classifiable in
Class 172. The line between Class 172 and subclasses 53.1+ of Class
180 is set out in the Search Class Note of subclass 35 in class
172.
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses for subject matter relating
to comminuting or disintegrating material other than the earth in
situ.
Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or
Pulling Force, appropriate subclasses for lifting means of general
utility for lifting a load, which means may be structurally similar to
a means for manipulating an implement.
Land Vehicles, appropriate subclasses for the running gear or other feature
of a general utility land vehicle, not restricted by disclosure
to an earth working or harvesting implement. Attention is directed
to
subclass 1.5 for a vehicle with a means for engaging the body
of a walking attendant; subclasses 6.15+ for a vehicle including
means, interposed between the vehicle body, chassis, or frame and
running gear thereof, for altering height or levelness of the vehicle
body, chassis, or frame; subclasses 32.5+ for a vehicle
with a worker"s support or shade; subclass 32.7 for a vehicle
including a riding attachment; subclasses 43+ for a vehicle including
a wheel vertically movable relative to the running gear for the
purpose of altering a dimension of the vehicle or a part thereof;
subclass 47.11 for a vehicle including steering of other than a
mere swinging axle by an attendant positioned about, rather than
upon, the vehicle; subclasses 47.131+ for a tiltable vehicle
stabilized by an article or an attendant; subclasses 47.34+ for
handle-propelled vehicles; subclasses 82+ for tongue trucks;
subclasses 98+ for vehicles having running gear specifically
constructed to enable execution of arcuate travel within a reduced
radius of curvature (i.e., short turn); subclass 108 for general
utility vehicles including tongue antivibrators; subclasses 124.1+ for
general utility vehicle running gear including suspension means; subclasses
137.5+ for general utility vehicle running gear including
a turnable axle lacking suspension means; subclasses 160+ for
means for fending obstacles from contact with the wheels of a vehicle;
subclasses 400+ for an articulated vehicle or plural interconnected vehicles
(i.e., vehicle train); subclasses 763.1+ for a vehicle
with a retractable ground support; subclasses 771+ for
vehicles including occupant controlled steering; subclasses 847+ for vehicle
dust or mud guards; or subclasses 855+ for wheel scrapers
and cleaners. Further, regarding an articulated vehicle or vehicle
train as provided in subclasses 400+ of this class (Class
280), particular attention is directed to subclasses 405.1+ for
a load distribution connection between sections of the articulated vehicle
or the plural vehicles, subclasses 411.1+ for multiple
trailing vehicles, subclass 414.5 for a trailing vehicle having
a vertically adjustable wheel, subclasses 415.1+ for a
convertible interconnection between the articulated vehicles, subclass
419 for a steering connection between articulated vehicles, subclasses
420+ for articulated vehicles with service connections
therebetween, subclasses 442+ for a wheel on a trailing
vehicle steered by articulative movement between the vehicles, subclasses
446.1+ for condition responsive draft connections, subclasses
449+ for overload releasing draft connections, subclasses
456.1+ for plural laterally adjustable draft connections,
subclass 476.1 for a wheel draft connection, subclasses 477+ for
connection facilitating means in a draft connection, and subclass
490.1 for a vertically adjustable draft member, the adjustment being
merely for the purpose of placing the draft member at a proper height
for facilitating the connection between the articulated vehicles.
Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements,
subclasses 49+ for hand forks and shovels. Hand forks and shovels
are distinguished from Class 172 apparatus such as a hand hoe in
that the row of tines or blade extends in the general direction
of the handle from an end thereof and is designed to engage and
lift a load.
Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, appropriate subclass for subject matter relating
to recovering valuable material from the earth or breaking up hard,
solid material in situ. In working the earth surface, the line between
Class 172 and Class 299 turns on described hardness of material
worked, Class 299 taking a cutter or device for working hard solid
material in situ. Clay type earth or loose gravel is considered
soft material whereas solid rock, coal or road pavement is considered
hard material. However, a device for merely drawing a cutter back
and forth like a plow even in a hard surface is classified in Class
172 if specific cutter structure is not recited.
Land Vehicles: Wheels and Axles, appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 41.1+ for wheels which may be structurally indistinguishable
from earth working tools but which are not intended to work the
earth.
Joints and Connections, appropriate subclasses for a joint between two members
which does not involve any structure of the members other than that
which cooperates to effect the joint.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclass 117 , for an earth compacting roller with vibrating
or impact means, subclass 121, for a sheep"s foot roller,
subclasses 122+, for a rotating drum, roller or tire to
compact earth and subclasses 133.05+, for earth tamping
means.
Abrading,
subclasses 415+ for an abrasive attachment for sharpening earth
working tools. An earth working apparatus combined with a sharpening
device is in Class 172, subclass 437. However, where the earth working
apparatus, as claimed, is only a support for the attachment, then
classification is in Class 451.
Machines Not Elsewhere Specified,
subclasses 10+ for agricultural or construction machinery.
SECTION IV - GLOSSARY
ACTUATOR
A device comprising both a means for imparting movement
to an element and a means for holding the moved element against
returning to a position from which it has been moved. Thus, an actuator
may comprise a servomotor, a mechanical power take-off from a motor
or rolling wheel, a hand operated lever and ratchet or merely a
handle and a bracket for holding the element moved by the handle
in position. In the case of a mere handle actuator, however, the
handle must be intended to be used merely to move an element to
an adjusted position where it is held in place by a holding means.
If the handle is intended to be used by an attendant so as to hold
an element in intermediate positions by continued application of
force by the attendant then the handle is not considered an actuator.
See subclasses 329+ for devices with such handles. If the
handle is disclosed as usable as an actuator to merely move and
hold and, alternatively, also as a guiding means to move and hold by
force exerted by the attendant then the handle is considered to
be both an actuator and an attendant hold means and is classified
accordingly in the first appropriate subclass and cross referenced
down if necessary.
A device comprising merely a means for moving by direct application
of draft force is not considered an actuator. For example, an implement
hitched to a tractor and provided with a latch and a movable hitch
whereby the draft force of the tractor on the movable hitch moves an
earth working element with respect to the implement frame and the
latch holds the element in different positions is not considered
to be provided with an actuator, as the term is used in this class.
See subclass 605 for such devices.
Also, a device comprising merely a screw bolt or the like
is not considered an actuator, being merely a clamping or an adjusting
means.
ADJUSTABLE
An adjective describing the capability of two parts of being
selectively held in different positions with respect to one another
by some means other than an attendant. A mere clamp which cooperates
with a member such that by loosening the clamp the member could
be set in any desired position and reclamped (e.g., clamp and spike tooth)
is not considered to be an adjusting means. However, any specific
structure such as selectively usable apertures, teeth, slots, etc.,
for the purpose of permitting the selective change of the relative
positions of two parts is included under this definition.
Despite the above limitation on the meaning of "adjustable" if
a claim emphasizes the feature of adjustability it is classifiable
in an "adjustable" subclass even if structurally
the feature comprises a mere clamp.
EARTH WORKING ELEMENT
Synonymous with "tool".
IMPLEMENT
A combination of parts comprising an earth working device.
It may mean merely an earth working portion or a complex combination
of parts including a tractor. Usually it indicates a complete device
which as an entity may be readily attached to a tractor in the field.
LATERAL
A direction which is transverse of the line of draft
of a tool over the earth unless some other meaning is clearly indicated
by the context.
LONGITUDINAL
A direction which is parallel to the line of draft of
a tool over the earth unless some other meaning is clearly indicated.
TOOL
That portion of the apparatus which actually works the earth.
Plant Husbandry,
subclass 58.1 for methods of earth working combined with an additional
nonearth working step such as adding fertilizer or treating the
soil.
Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects,
subclass 1 for methods of earth working combined with an additional
step of removing or separating a plant or buried object from the
earth.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working element and a means
for sensing a condition or change of condition, which condition
or change of condition may or may not occur, a separate control
means and a separate power means for changing a condition of operation
of the apparatus, said three means being so related that the sensing
means controls operation of the controlling means and the control
means controls operation of the power means, all without the intervention
of a human operator.
(1)
Note. The "power means" of the definition
comprises a motor or a mechanical power take-off. For purposes of
this definition a spring is not considered a power actuating means.
(2)
Note. Apparatus in which a movement of the sensing means develops
power which directly moves the power means is not included (e.g.,
a sensing means connected to a piston in a hydraulic transmission
to directly cause movement of a piston in the power lift cylinder). See
subclass 239 for such apparatus.
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 14.5 for a connection between a motor vehicle and a
trailer (including a broadly claimed implement) effective to automatically
control the vehicle on occurrence of an overload on the connection,
and subclasses 282+ for a motor vehicle provided with a
safety-promoting means which is responsive to the sensing of acceleration,
deceleration, or tilt of the vehicle.
Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 699+ , for material moving devices with a vertically
swinging load support of the tilting shovel or fork type with automatic
control for effecting an operation of the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus in which the power means controlled is for propelling
the apparatus over the ground.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes brake or clutch control for the
propelling means.
(2)
Note. The mere recitation of an implement by name only in
combination with a power driven propelling means therefor having
a mechanism for controlling the propulsion means in response to
a condition of the implement, as for example, a mechanism for disengaging
the clutch of a tractor when a pulled implement strikes an obstruction,
is not enough for classification under this definition. See Class
180, Motor Vehicles, subclass 14.5 for such devices.
(3)
Note. The mere recitation of an implement in combination with
a power driven propelling means therefor including a means for adjusting
the implement and a mechanism for con trolling both the
propelling means and the adjusting means for the implement is included
in this definition.
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 14.5 for vehicle trains with automatically responsive
means for controlling the propelling means. A broadly named implement
is considered a vehicle for Class 180.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus in which the sensing means contacts or senses
the surface of the ground and acts to maintain the earthworking
element at a preselected depth therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus in which the earth working element is a ground
leveling tool, (e.g., a scraper, etc.) which is so controlled that
the contour of the finished portion of the earth which is being worked
will be substantially straight in a longitudinal direction regardless
of the irregularities of the original surface of said portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus wherein the condition sensed is the location of
an obstruction or plant.
(1)
Note. A stake or other object which has been previously placed
in position for the purpose of controlling an earth working implement
which is intended to approach such object is not considered to be
an obstruction within this definition since its sensing is not considered
to be a condition which may or may not occur. See search notes below
for such apparatus.
for a stake or other object which has been previously
placed in position for the purpose of controlling an earth working
implement which is intended to approach an object
for apparatus having an obstruction feeler for moving
an implement to avoid the obstruction, the obstruction feeler providing
the power necessary to move the implement or merely unlatching the
implement so that it may move.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Apparatus in which the condition change which is sensed
is a change in the force required to move the earth working element along
the ground.
(1)
Note. For classification under this definition a patent must
claim the automatic control feature in some detail. A mere broad
reference in a claim to an automatic control as, for example, a
mere broad reference in a claim to a top link in a three point hitch
broadly described as a link for automatically controlling a power
lift is not enough. See Search Notes below.
for apparatus including means to automatically control
the power means of a vehicle for propelling a tool which may be
responsive to the draft force on the earth working tool.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 446.1+ for articulated vehicles with a hitch responsive
to changes in the draft load, there being no disclosure of an earth
working element being the cause of the change in draft load, and
subclasses 405.1+ for articulated vehicles with an adjustment
to distribute the load between the vehicles or from one vehicle
to another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus in which the rate of movement of the power means
varies with the magnitude of the sensed force in such a manner that
the rate of movement increases or decreases when the magnitude of
the sensed force increases or decreases respectively.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes, for example, those devices in
which a plurality of pumps, a variable capacity pump, or a plurality
of successively operated valves are used to operate a fluid servomotor.
(2)
Note. A system which has a mere single valve for directing
fluid to a servomotor which would provide less restriction to fluid
flow upon greater opening of the valve in response to the increased
magnitude of the sensed force is not included in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus including means having a manually actuated element
which may be set in a plurality of positions, wherein changing the
position of the element results in a change in the type of condition
(e.g., position of tool, amount of draft force, depth of tool) which
causes a change in operation of the apparatus.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes those devices having means to
operate the power means to raise or lower the earth working means
upon the occurrence of an excess draft force (e.g., excess draft release
or overload lift type).
for an actuator adapted to lift a tool for transport
on a wheeled frame or broadly claimed implement and comprising a
servomotor with a follow-up control, or for a device wherein an automatic
draft responsive control is converted to a position control so that the
automatic draft control is effective only if the device is disassembled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus having means to selectively adjust the relationship
between the power means and the sensing means to change the magnitude
of sensed force required to produce a given movement of the power
means.
(1)
Note. The sensed force in this definition is the force applied
directly to the sensing means, for example, in the three-point mast
type hitch it is the force applied to the end of the top link and
not the force acting directly on the earth working element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus in which the earthworking element is normally
raised by the power means in response to an increase in the sensed
force and having means which is operative when the magnitude of
the force exceeds a predetermined amount to release the earth-working
element from control by the power means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Apparatus in which the condition sensed is an abnormal increase
in the magnitude of the draft force, the sensing means initiating
operation of the power means to cause raising of the earth working
element to an inoperative position.
(1)
Note. The earth working element may be returned to its previous
working condition as part of the cycle of operation.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising means other than a scraper specially
intended for working the earth adjacent a fixed structure on the
surface of the earth (e.g., a paved walk to edge a lawn) or working
the earth adjacent a turf surface (e.g., grooving a plant bed adjacent
a lawn).
(1)
Note. This definition is intended to provide an art collection
of lawn edgers or trimmers. Usually such devices comprise a means
for guiding the device along the edge of the pavement. However no
special structure need be claimed for classification in this subclass.
Patents whose sole specific disclosure or whose claims relate to
the described use are considered to come under this definition.
Cutlery, appropriate subclasses for hand manipulable implements
for merely cutting or slitting grass or sod. Devices which cut so
as to form a groove in the soil, however, are classified in Class
172.
Harvesters,
subclasses 10.1+ , for a motor-driven harvester, particularly subclass
13.7, wherein two or more cutters are provided, e.g., for mowing and
for trimming, and subclass 16.9 wherein the motor may drive a mower or
a trimmer; subclasses 229+, for a lawn and hedge cutter,
and subclass 251, for a lawn edge trimmer combined with a lawn mower.
The lawn edge trimmer or cutter of Class 56 merely cuts grass. If
a groove is cut in the soil, or the ground is otherwise disturbed,
classification is in an appropriate subclass in Class 172.
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in combination with or convertible to an element
for performing some work operation other than earth working.
(1)
Note. Devices classified here include lawn edgers combined
with mowers, brushes or snow removers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus comprising an earth working element which cuts
into the ground and has a rolling motion as it is pulled over the
ground or is positively moved with respect to its support with a
continuous or cyclic motion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Apparatus comprising in addition an earth working element
for cutting into or furrowing the earth which does not move relative
to its support while working the earth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus comprising (1) an earth working element adapted
to be driven generally vertically downwardly in the earth or (2)
jaw members for grasping and lifting a portion of earth.
Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements,
subclasses 49+ for hand forks and shovels for digging or grappling
earth and not limited to use as lawn edgers.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising means for cutting the earth (1) horizontally
and vertically or (2) annularly for the purpose of enabling a portion of
sod to be removed in an undisturbed condition.
(1)
Note. This definition is intended to provide an art collection
of sod or plug cutters. Other devices such as subsoilers, or the
like, which cut soil and have structure similar to that of a sod
cutter but are not used for the purpose of removing a strip of earth
in an undisturbed condition are not included. Patents are considered to
come under this definition if claims refer to sod cutting or the
sole specific disclosure relates to this use.
(2)
Note. Patents relating to the handling and/or cutting
of sod after it has been cut from the ground are classified under
this definition if not otherwise classifiable.
for earth perforating devices which have means for
removing the earth from a hole made in the earth, there being no
intention to remove a piece of sod in an undisturbed condition so that
it can be replanted. The earth perforating devices characteristically either
disturb the earth or take out a very small diameter core of earth
and sod, not intended for replanting.
Boring or Penetrating the Earth,
subclasses 249+ for a core-forming type earth boring bit provided
with means to sever the core and subclasses 403+ for a
core-forming type earth boring bit.
Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements,
subclasses 49+ for forks or shovels for lifting plugs of earth
or sod and subclass 50.6 for shovels of the grappling type, the
grapple having no means to cut the earth in a horizontal plane.
Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, appropriate subclass for cutting hard, solid earth material in
situ, particularly
subclasses 36.1+ for a floor working machine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Apparatus comprising means for making a transverse vertically
extending cut in the earth while the apparatus is being propelled
over the surface of the earth.
(1)
Note. The apparatus may momentarily halt its forward motion
while the transverse cut is being made.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus for treating earth covered with grass by making
a slit or small hole therein so as to either aerate the earth, remove
a plug of grass and soil, or merely pierce sod, with a minimum of
disturbance of the adjacent earth.
(1)
Note. The apparatus found in this subclass is not limited
to any specific type of structure but is usually disclosed as being
intended to perform the aforementioned aerating and/or
plug-removing function.
(2)
Note. Apparatus which could incidently be used to perform
this function is not included herein, unless the aerating and/or
plug-removal of lawns is disclosed as an intended use of the apparatus.
for cyclically driven carriers which have, movably
mounted thereon, hole forming earth-working teeth, blades, or like
projections, but which teeth, blades, or projections tear at and
snag the soil in working it.
Harvesters,
subclass 226 for standing grain gatherers with bat members having
a vertical movement similar to aerator projections; and subclass
249 for mowers with rollers having aerating devices.
Planting,
subclasses 89+ for devices for making a cavity in the earth and depositing
material in the cavity; and subclass 99 for hand implements for forming
a cavity other than a furrow in the ground to receive material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Apparatus in which there are means for making a hole in
the earth by removing earth from below the surface of the ground
to a location above the surface.
DRIVEN FROM OR GUIDED BY STATIONARY OBJECT, OR ANCHORED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working means adapted (1)
to coact with some fixed manmade structure so as to be driven relative to
or guided by said structure, (2) to be anchored to some fixed structure
such as a tree or stake to be guided thereby, (3) to be operated while
anchored to or supported on the earth so as to prevent the apparatus
as a whole from having any translatory movement during the earth
working operation, or (4) to be guided by a guide means contacting
a channel or shoulder previously made in the ground.
(1)
Note. The fixed man-made structure may be portable. For example,
a tractor carrying a winch intended to pull an earth working element
relative to the tractor to work the earth is considered a "fixed installation",
provided the earth working element is not carried by the tractor.
(2)
Note. A means for feeling an obstruction and merely guiding
or directing an implement to avoid such obstruction is not included
in this definition. Such means are found in subclass 233. Also, an
apparatus comprising merely a tool which shifts on meeting an obstruction
is not included.
(3)
Note. In connection with section (3) of the above definition
the device must have some anchor, ground supporting feet or earth
penetrating pilot in addition to the earth working means. However, the
pilot may itself have some earth working function.
(4)
Note. In connection with section (4) of the definition, in
order to come within the definition an apparatus must have an element
which does not support any substantial weight and which does not
have an earth working function and is disclosed as intended to contact
a channel or shoulder made on a previous pass of the apparatus or
some other apparatus. A landslide of a plow or the like is not classified
under this definition unless it is disclosed as specially intended
to be used to guide the apparatus along a previously made shoulder
since a landslide which inherently could be used to guide an apparatus
along a shoulder is very common in this art.
Railways,
subclass 169 for railroad rolling stock or track type apparatus claiming
an earth working implement by name only and concerned with means
for reciprocating the implement across a field, and subclass 244.1
for means coacting with a furrow for guiding a vehicle or implement
claimed by name only.
Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or
Pulling Force,
subclasses 264+ for apparatus for hauling or hoisting a load including
a driven device which contacts and pulls on a cable when the load
is moved.
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus in which the earth working means is guided in
a rotary path by a fixed vertical member not forming a part of the
apparatus (e.g., tree or stake).
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus in which the earth working means is rotated about
an upright axis while the apparatus is anchored to or supported
on the ground so as to prevent translational movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus comprising a means which is adapted to contact
an elongated shoulder or channel on or in the ground in order to
guide the apparatus.
(1)
Note. See (4) Note of subclass 23 for limitations applicable
to this definition.
Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects,
subclass 47 for a surface object or ground contour engaging
guide means which shifts the unearthing unit bodily with respect
to the frame in a generally horizontal plane.
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 401 for a motor vehicle provided with steering gear
which includes a land based steering datum and means on the vehicle
for sensing the datum, which means cooperates with a steering motor
on the vehicle for the purpose of controlling the course of the
vehicle.
Land Vehicles,
subclass 87.2 for a land vehicle of the wheeled type provided
with means whereby one or more of its wheels may be steered by an
occupant and wherein the steering means controls also a wheel offset from
the principal supporting wheels of the vehicle but which, by its
own turning (i.e., pivotable) movement, is able to effect turning
movement of certain of the principal wheels; and subclass 776 for
a wheeled vehicle of the occupant steered type wherein bias means
is provided for maintaining a steerable wheel in engagement with
an elongate, more or less vertical surface (e.g., a curb) for a
vehicle-steering purpose.
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus comprising a scraper that is adapted to be connected
by a cable or the like flexible means to a fixed structure so as
to be driven relative to said structure.
(1)
Note. The scraper in this definition comprises an approximately
vertically disposed blade for smoothing the earth or for cutting
into the earth and pushing earth ahead of it in order to move the material
from one location to another. The disclosed use may be for scraping earth
beneath a body of water or scraping material from a vertical wall.
The blade may have spaced teeth, though usually it has a straight
edge.
(2)
Note. Patents are considered to come under this definition
if they are disclosed as intended to be used with a fixed structure,
no special limitation being required in the claims. Use with a fixed
structure is considered to be established if it is clear from the
disclosure that the scraper is dragged back as well as forward by
a cable or the like and there is nothing in the disclosure inconsistent
with the cable or the like for forward motion being a drag line.
Excavating,
subclasses 394+ , for cable-operated excavating apparatus comprising
more than a scraper, per se, and nominally recited hauling cables
or like flexible means connected thereto, subclasses 398+ for cable
operated wheeled scoops and subclasses 398+ for cable operated scoops.
A scoop differs from a scraper in that it has a bottom wall which
carries material to be transported, whereas a scraper relies on
the surface over which it is moving to support material which it
is transporting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 26.5. Apparatus in which the scraper is adapted to be pulled in
opposite directions by the cable or flexible means and in which
some portion of the scraper apparatus is caused to move to and remain
at a different position relative to some other portion when the
direction of pull is reversed.
(1)
Note. The relative movable portion of the scraper apparatus
must comprise more than a mere continuation of the flexible means,
such as a bail.
WITH MEANS FOR CUTTING OR SHREDDING PLANTS WITHOUT SOIL DISTURBANCE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working means in combination
with an independent spaced means for severing or shredding crops without
disturbing the soil, said independent means being used simultaneously
with said earth working means.
and the subclasses there noted, for earth working
elements with relatively movable cutting or cleaning means to remove
vegetation or debris that has collected on the implement.
especially subclass 752 for earth working elements
having sharpened edges or portions which may serve to sever crops
or vegetation coming in contact with the elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Apparatus in which the plant severing or shredding means
is driven with a regular cyclic motion relative to its support or
frame by a power means in addition to the motion imparted directly
to the means by the translation of the device as a whole as it is
moved across the surface of the ground being treated.
WITH MEANS FOR SHIFTING SURFACE MATERIAL WITHOUT SOIL DISTURBANCE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working means combined with
means (e.g., a rack) for shifting material lying on the surface
of the soil which has not been disturbed by the earthworking means
without disturbing the soil, said shifting means being used simultaneously
with said earth working means.
(1)
Note. Living plants, e.g., vines, are not included. Also dead
plants which are still standing, e.g., corn stalks, are not included.
See subclasses 514+ and 517 for plant deflectors for handling
such material. Also, devices which merely clean or remove material
from earth working elements are not included, see subclasses 39
and 66 for driven cleaners and subclasses 606+ and the
subclasses there noted for non driven cleaners.
(2)
Note. For patents to be classified under this definition the
means to shift surface material must be disclosed as solely for such
purpose. An earth working implement which may be adjusted to travel above
the surface of the ground to shift surface material is not included.
Harvesters, appropriate subclasses for rakes or gatherers, per se,
or combined with harvesting means, and
subclasses 400.04+ for hand rakes combined with earth working elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Apparatus in which the means for shifting surface material
is driven with a regular cyclic motion relative to its support or
frame by a power means in addition to the motion imparted directly
to the means by the translation of the device as a whole as it is
moved across the surface of the ground being treated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Apparatus in which the earth working means includes at least
one earth engaging blade extending laterally of the direction of
travel and being either reciprocable vertically to perform a cutting
function or being attached to a rotary carrier which is rotated
due to the resistance of the earth as the apparatus is moved over
the earth.
(1)
Note. The earth engaging blade need not extend the 90° with
respect to the line of travel, but may be oblique with respect thereto.
(2)
Note. Most of these devices are stalk choppers and the function
of the blade is mainly to cut stalks.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working means and a means
for acting on the earth severed from the ground or loosened by the
earth working means to classify, separate or assort it according
to its physical characteristics and return at least a portion of
such earth to the ground.
(1)
Note. The classifying, assorting, or separating means must
be in addition to and distinct from the earth working means which
severs the material from the ground.
(2)
Note. The classifying, assorting, or separating means is generally
of the type found, per se, in Class 209, Classifying, Separating,
and Assorting Solids.
(3)
Note. A mere pulverizing or comminuting is not considered
separating.
for fenders for preventing soil thrown about by
the apparatus from contacting plants, the fender being of the perforated
or screening type to permit fine soil to pass.
Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects, appropriate subclasses for means for unearthing
plants or objects from the ground and separating them from the earth.
The subject matter of Class 171 is characterized by means which
discriminate between an object and the earth. In Class 172 the discrimination is
between different portions of the earth itself, as between large
clods or granules and small clods or granules. For example, a Class
172 device may separate large granules of earth mixed with stones
from small granules of earth, while a Class 171 device would separate
stones from earth.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working means combined with
a power driven means for handling the earth after it has been severed from
the ground or loosened by the earth working means.
(1)
Note. Where the power driven means not only handles the earth
but performs a substantial earth working function the apparatus
is classifiable in subclasses 35+.
(2)
Note. The power driven handling means may comprise for example
a conveyer for moving the earth or a means for turning a furrow
slice.
(3)
Note. A power driven cleaner or comminutor which merely separates
earth from an implement without conveying it to a distance is not
considered to come within this definition. Such devices may be found
in subclass 66.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus , other than hand held devices, so arranged that
the whole apparatus may be turned upside down so as to work the
earth in that position in addition to its ability to work the earth
in its original right side up position.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which a power means is provided to move an
earth working element with a regular cyclic motion relative to its
support independently of or in addition to the motion imparted directly
to said element by the translation of the device as a whole as it
is moved across the surface of the ground being treated.
(1)
Note. The moving means may employ a resilient element or gravity
return arrangement during a portion of the movement.
(2)
Note. The power means may comprise (1) a prime mover such
as an engine or motor (2) a drive from a supporting wheel (other
than where there is an integral wheel and earth working element
or direct coupling therebetween) or (3) a manual means to continuously
rotate the earth working element.
(3)
Note. Where no more of the driving means for a driven earth
working element is claimed than the driven shaft which supports
said element the patent has been construed as a rotary implement
subcombination, equally useful as a driven or a rolling earth working
element and has been classified in subclasses 518+ unless
(1) the claimed structure, attitude, or relation of the element
to the ground or to an adjacent, cooperating implement would require
a drive means to operate it in the manner disclosed or (2) unless
a disclosed drive means (more than a shaft) is claimed either broadly
or specifically.
(4)
Note. Driven earth working elements as contemplated by this
definition usually engage earth which is either undisturbed or which
rests on undisturbed earth immediately after it has been treated
by another implement. As an exception to the above, driven elements
which (1) are contiguous to a ground treating implement to clean
it or (2) which are disposed in the path of the furrow slice or earth
stream leaving the implement to pulverize said earth have been classified as
driven earth engaging elements in subclasses 39, 50+, 66,
and 67.
(5)
Note. Provision of power means to shift an otherwise undriven
earth working element at the option of the operator has not been
considered to result in a driven earth working element for this
definition in the absence of a regular and cyclic motion. For actuators
for shifting earth working elements see subclass 663 and the subclasses
there noted.
(6)
Note. Some drive connections to an earth working element actually
retard the element and constrain it to rotate at a speed slower
than that at which it would roll on the ground. Patents claiming
such drives have been classified in this and indented subclasses
provided that the drive is capable of positively rotating the element
if it were not in contact with the earth.
Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for a means to drive or impact a tool,
and particularly
subclasses 184+ for such means mounted on a wheeled vehicle. Class
172 has not been cleared as to conflicting subject matter with Class
173, therefor a disclosed use as a drive for an agricultural earth
working tool will cause classification in Class 172.
Boring or Penetrating the Earth, appropriate subclasses for analogous apparatus used
for boring small diameter holes in the earth, for example, for artesian
wells, oil wells, post holes, or the like.
Motor Vehicles, especially
subclass 20 for motor vehicles with rollers, and subclasses
53.1+ for a motor vehicle in which the motor is used as
a source of external power to drive an external device. The line
between Classes 172 and 180 as to this subject matter is that Class
172 will take a patent in which (1) the external device is claimed
as being an earth working implement or (2) the claim includes an
external device and the sole specific disclosure relates to an earth working
implement, or (3) the external device is claimed by name only and
there is also claimed a means for manipulating the device relative
to the motor vehicle in a manner consistent with the manner in which
an earth working implement would be manipulated.
Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclasses 29+ for a hard material disintegrating machine having
a driven cutter and particularly subclasses 36.1+ for such
a machine described as working on a hard, solid floor or road surface.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclasses 122+ , for a rotating drum, roller, or tire means to
compact the earth and drive means therefore. See search notes thereunder
for similar devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which plural earth working elements or parts
thereof are located below the surface of the ground and are relatively
moved by a power means in such fashion that they periodically engage
each other and then separate in order to cut or pinch subsurface
material or growths.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which an earth working element is mounted for
motion in a circular path and is disclosed as being moved in said
path by an attendant, in normal use, through an arc of over 360
degrees.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a driven earth working element is secured
to or carried by a supporting member movably mounted on a main vehicular frame,
there being a means on said member or said earth working element
adapted to engage a plant, tree, post, or like obstruction in the
normal path of traverse of the driven earth working element over
the ground to thereby shift or permit a shifting of the driven earth
working element out of the path of traverse to clear the obstruction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is mounted
on a support which is provided with a means which is spaced from
the original surface of the undisturbed ground and which means is
disposed and adapted either (1) to remove earth from an element
to be cleaned, or (2) to engage and chop up a slice of earth proceeding
from the driven earth working element.
for earth working means combined with driven means
for shifting material lying on the surface of the earth without
disturbing the soil, the driven means working on material which
has not collected on the earth working means rather than on material
which is on parts or portions of said earth working means.
for driven members which engage a nondriven earth
working tool to clean the same or to comminute a furrow slice turned
thereby, and 558+ and 606 for nondriven cleaners for non drive
tools.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which an earth working element, or a portion
thereof, is driven so that it has a motion of small amplitude (i.e.,
it vibrates).
(1)
Note. Generally, the implement is driven by reaction forces
produced by the rapid rotation of an off-center or unbalanced mass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a power driven earth working element
is adapted to be entirely supported and manipulated by an attendant.
(1)
Note. The power supplying means may be supported in any manner
desired as on a vehicle, on the ground or carried by the operator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a driven earth working element is mounted
on a frame which element or frame is provided with a means to enable
a walking attendant to steer, guide or otherwise manipulate the
element or frame, such frame being propelled over the earth by the
attendant, by the earth working element or by a traction member
driven from a prime mover supported on the frame.
(1)
Note. This definition is intended to take those implements
commonly referred to as "garden tillers", "rotary
cultivators" and like devices which traverse the earth and
are guided or manipulated as a unit by a walking attendant, there
being disclosed a means, generally a handle, for affecting such
guiding or manipulation. Devices which are coupled to a horse or tractor
propelling means have been excluded and will be found in the subclasses
hereinbelow based on the particular tool features or particular manipulative
features of the driven tools.
for earth perforator tools of the lawn aerator type
which may be hand guided by a walking attendant, such devices generally
being self propelled over the earth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Apparatus comprising a frame, a driven tool supported by
said frame and ground support means vertically adjustable relative
to the frame.
(1)
Note. For the meaning of adjustable see "adjustable" in
the class definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a driven earth working element in the
form of a narrow elongated shaft or bar is disposed transversely
to the line of draft and is rotatably supported wholly below the surface
of the earth.
(1)
Note. The usual purpose of the subsurface rotary shafts of
this subclass is to stir up the soil usually to loosen weeds.
(2)
Note. The elongated rod may be articulated or provided with
projecting elements such as teeth.
(3)
Note. The rod is generally rotatably supported at the lower
end of "gooseneck" type standards and there may
be a number of such standards some rotatably supporting the rod
and others disposed forwardly of or to the rear of the rod and carrying
at the lower ends thereof earth working teeth such as plows, chisels,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a tooth, tine or like earth working part
is so freely pivotally mounted on a driven rotary carrier that during
carrier rotation centrifugal forces cause the free end of said tooth,
tine, or like to swing to a radial position relative to the axis
of rotation of such carrier.
(1)
Note. This definition includes teeth or tines which are freely
pivotally connected to a rotary carrier by means of a flexible chain.
for other teeth, tines or like earth working parts
which are movably mounted on a driven carrier, the movement being
caused (1) by a drive means or (2) by flexure of a resilient tooth,
tine or like earth working part on encountering an overload or (3)
by the turning of a rolling blade when the same contacts the ground.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which two or more earth working elements are
journaled in a frame for movement in circular paths about a common
axis of rotation, the drive means for such earth working elements
being so arranged that said elements rotate in reverse directions
relative to each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the driven earth-working element is part
of an implement associated with a three point hitch (mast-type hitch)
wherein significance is attributed to the cooperation of the implement
with the hitch, or the implement includes a mounting for an additional
three point hitch at the rear thereof for connection to another
implement.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclass 439, the definition and notes
thereunder for a definition of a mast-type hitch.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus employing a plurality of separate earth working
elements or groups of elements, each of which is driven so as to
move with respect to one another during operation, and each of which
is connected, through a linkage, to a drive means that drives the
tool in a predetermined manner.
(1)
Note. Included herein are patents wherein the tools are driven
by a common driving element such as a drive chain or camshaft, and
those wherein the tools are mounted on shafts connected to individual
gears of a row of intermeshing gears.
for an earth working implement comprising a carrier
means such as a chain or wheel which forms the support for earth-engaging
teeth and has an orbital movement while the teeth supported by it
also move with respect to it.
for a tool having multiple earth-engaging elements
(e.g., elongated teeth) which are mounted on a single support and
(a) are pivoted freely thereon, (b) have a spring connection thereto,
or (c) consist of spring elements so that they are movable with respect
to each other, but not in a predetermined manner.
for an earth working implement in which a plurality
of teeth or like earth working parts or portions are mounted on
a flexible or articulated member which is driven in a closed path
or circuit relative to a frame upon which said teeth, parts, or
portions and member are supported.
Tool Driving or Impacting,
subclass 52 , and see the search notes therein for a single
advance causing or controlling means or manipulating means for plural
tool drives.
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus in which separate earth working elements travel
in circular paths in contact with the earth and in which (1) said
paths intersect and overlap or (2) said earth working elements are
disposed immediately adjacent each other to cooperate in treating
the intermediate earth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 49. Apparatus in which the axes, about which the earth working
elements travel, are disposed in a generally vertical direction.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes patents whose sole specific disclosure
is to an implement in which the elements cooperate to work a continuous
strip of soil.
Planting,
subclass 160 for a power- driven earth working tool, rotatable about
a vertical axis, which is claimed in combination with a planting machine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus which include a plurality of driven earth working
elements which are not identical.
(1)
Note. Differences in size or shape constitute matter for this
definition but mere differences in rotary displacement (phase),
position or attitude are excluded and are classified in a pertinent
subclass herebelow on the basis of the features of each individual
earth working element. For example, mirror images are not considered
to be differences of shape.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Apparatus in which each of the diverse driven earth working
elements moves through at least a complete turn in a circular path
about an axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Apparatus in which at least one of the driven, diverse earth
working elements is moved back and forth in a straight line path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Apparatus in which at least one of the driven, diverse earth
working elements is moved back and forth through an arcuate path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus in which the earth working elements are moved
back and forth either in a generally straight-line path, or in a
generally arcuate path, or both, within a generally horizontal plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus in which the plural driven earth working elements
consist of two or more groups of earth working elements, each group comprising
a plurality of generally circular platelike members handled as a
unit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus in which the plural driven earth working elements
are individually spaced both laterally and in the direction of draft
or travel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus in which the plural driven earth working elements
individually spaced transversely of the direction of travel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Apparatus in which the axes of cyclic movement of the spaced
earth working elements are parallel to each other and to the direction
of draft.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Apparatus in which the axes of cyclic movement of the spaced
earth working elements are parallel to each other and are disposed
perpendicular to the earth"s surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Apparatus in which the axes of cyclic movement of the spaced
earth working elements are coaxial or parallel to each other and
are diposed perpendicular to the direction of draft.
for subsurface shears or nippers which comprise
earth working portions which are periodically brought into engagement
one with the other and then separated in order to cut or pinch subsurface
material or growth, the means for imparting such movement generally
being a power drive which is periodically interrupted.
This subclass is indented under subclass 61. Apparatus in which movement of the earth working element
through the power drive portion of its cycle effects a loading of
a resilient means which means then effects movement of the earth
working element to its initial position.
for subsurface shear or nipper-type tools wherein
plural earth working elements or parts thereof are moved toward
or away from each other by a positive drive means having a spring device
as part thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus which have a plurality of earth working elements,
one of said elements being driven by a power driven means while
another of said elements is not connected to said drive.
(1)
Note. The nondriven earth working element may be fixed relative
to the driven element (such as a plow, harrow, drag, scraper or
knife) or may be a rolling earth working element such as a disk
or roller.
(2)
Note. The nondriven earth working element may be a ground
contacting part or portion of a hood or shield for a driven earth
working element provided such part or portion is specifically designed
to work the earth; e.g., hoods with scraping, leveling, or smoothing
blades or edges and hoods with depending crust breaking teeth are
included under this definition.
for driven earth working elements combined with
wheel substitutes, i.e., runners or other ground contacting supporting
means other than wheels, which perform no substantial earth working
function.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the nondriven earth working element is
provided for forming a furrow or irrigation ditch and the driven
earth working element is provided for disposing earth across said
furrow or ditch to thereby block or interrupt the same in order
to form therein a series of basins spaced from each other by interposed dams.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which earth working portions of the non driven
earth working elements intermesh or interdigitate with earth working
portions of the driven earth working elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is disposed
in contact with or along side of and within the confines of a fixed
or rolling earth working element in order, for example, to clean
the latter or to treat a furrow slice passing between the two earth
working elements.
for earth working means combined with driven means
for shifting material lying on the surface of the earth without
disturbing the soil, the driven means working on material which
has not collected on the earth working means rather than on material
which has already collected on parts or portions of said earth working
means.
for cleaners or comminutors which are spaced above
the original surface of the undisturbed ground and which cooperate
with driven earth working elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the nondriven earth working element is
in the form of a surface adapted to pick up earth and guide it to
a driven earth working element which pulverizes said earth.
(1)
Note. The guide surface may be in the form of a trough, grate,
ramp, or tube.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is associated
with a nondriven earth working element which is freely journaled
on a support in a manner to contact the ground and to be rotated
by the resistance thereof as the latter element traverses a field.
(1)
Note. Said nondriven earth working element may be a disk,
roller or toothed drum but a rolling member disclosed as a mere
support is excluded.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is actuated
by a power transmission means other than a mere rigid or articulated shaft
which means is interposed between the driven earth working element
and the rolling earth working element in such manner that in the
disclosed use of the device the flow of power is always from the
rolling earth working element to the driven earth working element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is disposed
between a first forwardly positioned nondriven earth working element and
a second rearwardly positioned nondriven earth working element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the nondriven earth working element follows
the path of the driven earth working element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus in which the nondriven earth working element comprises
a ground-engaging forming member having a lower surface shape which
is substantially flat or horizontal or which is upwardly concave
to form a cross sectional configuration which is desired to be imparted
to the disturbed earth behind the driven earth working element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is positioned
to engage the earth in an area laterally and longitudinally of the
area in which a nondriven earth working element engages the earth.
(1)
Note. The driven earth working element generally works a plant
row which row is undisturbed in the sense of not being broken, pulverized,
tilled, or the like, however, the nondriven earth working element
or elements may hill earth onto or scrape earth from the plant row
before the driven earth working element engages the same.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the means for transmitting power from
a power source to the driven earth working element is provided with
a power take-off for adjusting the position of the earth working
element relative to the earth.
(1)
Note. For the meaning of "adjustable" see
the class definition.
317+, 321, 322+, 324+,
395+, 439+, and especially 452+, for
power driven means to shift an implement which is otherwise undriven
in order to lift it or move it for adjustment purposes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a means is provided to interrupt a power
drive to a driven earth working element simultaneously with a bodily movement
of the element to a different vertical position with respect to
the ground.
(1)
Note. The usual purpose of these devices is to stop or arrest
the cyclic motion of the earth working element when it is lifted
to an inoperative position out of contact with the earth.
for devices in which the power drive to an earth
working element is interrupted by shifting of said element back
or forth along the line of travel of the device.
for overload relief or clutch means for interrupting
the drive to a driven earth working element upon engagement of such
element with an obstruction or as desired by an attendant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a driven implement is connected to a
vehicle for vertical movement with respect thereto and is provided
with a ground-contacting supporting member which member moves over
the earth"s surface and imparts to said implement a vertical
movement corresponding to the contour of the earth"s surface
to thereby maintain the earth working element of the driven implement
at a predetermined working depth.
for driven earth working elements which are freely
or yieldably mounted on supporting frames whereby they may move
vertically or laterally relative to said frames, there being provided
no ground supports other than the support afforded by ground contact
of the elements themselves.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Apparatus in which the driven implement is provided with
a resilient means for normally biasing said implement in a vertical
plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Apparatus in which the ground contacting supporting member
is adapted to be vertically adjustably connected to the driven implement whereby
the normal working depth of the earth working element may be altered
by moving said ground-contacting supporting members from one vertical
position to another.
(1)
Note. See the class definition for the meaning of "adjustable".
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Apparatus in which the earth working element of the driven
implement is drivingly connected by a transmission means to a power
source on the vehicle.
(1)
Note. The power source of this definition may be a self-contained
prime mover for propelling the vehicle or an auxiliary self-contained
power means; for example, an auxiliary gasoline or Diesel engine,
an electric motor, etc. The power source does not include a mere
power take-off from a driven or rolling ground wheel of the propelling
vehicle. For such devices see subclasses 76 and 105+.
for driven earth working elements which are mounted
on a frame, the frame being provided with (1) a ground support means
and (2) a means for guiding the same over the earth by a walking
attendant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which (1) means are provided to move the above
ground portions of plants and to direct them either towards or away
from a driven earth working element in order to assure that they
are destroyed or preserved, respectively, or (2) means are provided
for protecting the plant against earth moved by the earth working
element.
for earth working elements combined with means for
shifting material, such as trash, dead plants, reclining stalks, etc.,
lying on the surface of the soil without disturbing such soil.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a driven earth working element which
normally travels in a given path or orbit with respect to a frame
which supports said element is shiftable at the will of the operator
back or forth in the direction in which the frame is moved across
the ground to correspondingly shift the path or orbit.
(1)
Note. The usual purpose of such shifting is to contact or
to avoid contact with certain plants in a row while "chopping" out excess
plants.
(2)
Note. The shifting motion must be a rectilinear one substantially
exactly in or parallel to the line of travel to come under this
definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Apparatus in which the back or forth shifting movement of
the earth working element is operative to effect a disengagement
or declutching of the drive means to said earth working element
to thereby arrest the cyclic motion of the element while in said
back or forth position.
(1)
Note. The usual purpose of these devices is to stop the cyclic
motion of the tool when it has been shifted to a fore or after position
to avoid chopping out or otherwise injuring a plant.
for driven earth working elements which are mounted
for vertical shifting on a frame, the vertical shifting causing
an interruption of the drive to the elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the earth working element comprises at
least one tooth which has an earth-engaging portion and an elongated
shank portion said earth-engaging portion having an oscillating
motion about a point and the point itself having a component of
motion generally parallel to or coinciding with the longitudinal axis
of the shank in addition to the motion imparted to it by the traverse
of the apparatus over the ground whereby the motion of the earth-engaging
portion may be analyzed as a reciprocation in directions generally
longitudinally of the shank and also an oscillation in directions
generally transversely of the shank.
(1)
Note. The earth-engaging portion is usually either perpendicular
to the shank to provide a hoeing action or else aligned with the
shank to provide a spading motion.
(2)
Note. An earth working element comprising a carrier means
such as a chain or wheel, for example, which carrier forms the support
for earth-engaging teeth and has an orbital movement while the teeth supported
by it also move with respect to it is not included. See subclasses
91+ for such devices.
(3)
Note. An earth working element comprising a driven wheel or
like carrier means having movably mounted on the periphery thereof
a blade or like earth working portion, there being provided a means
to swing such blade or portion back and forth through an arc the
center of which arc moves through a circular path concentric with
the circular path of the driven carrier is not included. See subclass
94 for such elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is driven
in an endless path or orbit which lies in a plane which is generally
vertical and disposed perpendicularly to the direction of travel
of a frame on which the earth working element is mounted.
(1)
Note. The patents in this and the indented subclasses are
generally directed to devices which hoe transversely across a row
of plants to chop out certain of the plants.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus in which the elongated shank portion is driven
by plural cranks or eccentric pins or cams which engage the earth
working element at points which are spaced along said shank portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus in which means are provided to vary the shape
or contour of the path or orbit through which the earth working
element is driven.
(1)
Note. A mere incidental change in the shape or contour of
the path or orbit of the element due to the raising or lowering
of the same to vary the working depth thereof or to raise the same
for transport is not included herein. The claim must set forth means
for varying the shape or contour of the path, which means is independent
of the raising and lowering means.
for other earth working elements having elongated
shank portions which are provided with means for varying the shape
or contour of the path or orbit through which said earth working
elements are driven.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Apparatus in which the elongated shank portion is driven
by plural cranks or eccentric pins or cams which engage the earth
working element at points which are spaced along said shank portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Apparatus in which means are provided to vary the shape
or contour of the path or orbit through which the earth working
element is driven.
(1)
Note. A mere incidental change in the shape or contour of
the path or orbit of the element due to the raising or lowering
of the same to vary the working depth thereof or to raise the same
for transport is not included herein. The claim must set forth means
for varying the shape or contour of the path, which means is independent
of the raising and lowering means.
for transverse chopper-type earth working elements
which are provided with means for varying the shape or contour of
the path or orbit through which the earth working elements are driven.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which an earth working element which is supported
on a frame is moved towards and away from the earth by a lifting member
which is rotatably or pivotally supported on an axis on said frame
and has circumferential portions which extend radially to varying
distances from said axis in such fashion that said lifting member
engages the earth and periodically lifts the frame and the earth working
element.
(1)
Note. The frame may be a vehicle chassis, all or part of which
is lifted to move the earth working element.
(2)
Note. The lifting member may roll on the earth or may be driven
with respect to the frame.
for irregular ground-engaging wheels or levers which
engage the earth to resist motion of the apparatus thereover, whereby
upon a predetermined resistance relative motion between the wheels
or levers and the apparatus causes a manipulation of the apparatus
or a part thereof, the lever or wheel passing through only a portion of
a cycle i.e., passing through a cycle of less than 360°.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a tooth or like earth working part or
portion is movably supported on a carrier which carrier is driven
in a definite closed path or orbit whereby said tooth, part or portion
moves with respect to said carrier as said carrier moves through
its path or orbit.
(1)
Note. A vehicle upon which the tooth or like earth working
part or portion is mounted would not be a "carrier" for
this subclass even if it were steered to travel in a closed circular
path.
(2)
Note. A tooth or like earth working part or portion which
can be moved from one position of adjustment to another on its carrier
is not considered "movably mounted" for this definition.
for rolling carriers having movably mounted thereon
teeth or like earth working parts or portions which can be moved
with respect to the rolling carrier from an earth working position to
a position in which the teeth are prevented from engaging the ground.
for a tooth or like earth working part or portion
which can be selectively moved from one position of adjustment to
another on a rolling carrier means.
Boring or Penetrating the Earth,
subclasses 89+ for an earth boring device including a tool element
on a continuously driven flexible or articulated endless member.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Apparatus in which a means is provided for positively causing
the movement of the tooth or like earth working part or portion
relative to the carrier as said carrier moves through its path or
orbit.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes those earth working elements
having earth working parts or portions which rotate or move in orbital
paths relative to the cyclically driven carriers on which said parts
or portions are mounted.
(2)
Note. A mere spring connection between the blade and carrier
for causing movement is not included in this definition. See subclass
96 for such apparatus.
for rolling carriers having earth working teeth,
parts, or projections on the periphery thereof, there being provided
a means to cause movement of said teeth, parts, or projections relative
to the rolling carriers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in which the tooth or like earth working part
or portion is driven in such a fashion that it reciprocates in a
straight line path with respect to the driven carrier upon which
it is mounted.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in which the tooth or like earth working part
or portion is mounted on a rotating carrier, there being provided
a means for moving said tooth, part, or portion back and forth in
an arcuate path relative to said carrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in which the tooth or like earth working part
or portion is driven with respect to the driven carrier by a cam
or crank.
(1)
Note. The cam or crank is usually but not necessarily actuated
in response to motion of the carrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Apparatus in which the tooth or like earth working part
or portion is supported on the driven carrier by means which include
a member which bends or distorts to allow said tooth or like earth
working part or portion to move relative to said carrier.
(1)
Note. The support may comprise a freely bendable connection
or a resilient means adapted to bias the tooth or like earth working
part or portion to a given position and which means may be employed either
with or in lieu of a hinge connection between the carrier and said
tooth, part, or portion.
(2)
Note. The support may be a mere continuation of a spring formed
or flexible blade or blade shank.
for "flail type" tools wherein
a tooth or like earth working part or portion is so pivotally mounted
on a driven rotary carrier that during rotation of said carrier
centrifugal forces cause the free end of said tooth or like earth working
part or portion to swing to a radial position relative to the axis
of rotation of said carrier.
for nondriven earth working elements provided with
means permitting the elements to shift with respect to the earth
or a supporting frame when said elements encounter an overload.
for rolling nondriven tools in which the teeth or
like earth working parts or portion thereof are mounted on a spring
or are so related to a spring that relative movement between such teeth,
parts or portions and the rolling supporting structure stresses
the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the earth working element or an earth-engaging
portion thereof has different, distinct kinds of motions (such as
reciprocating and rotating) with respect to the earth, these motions
either occurring simultaneously or successively during the cyclical
operation of the earth working element.
for blades or teeth which are movably mounted on
carriers which are also movably mounted so that said blades or teeth
travel in paths determined by the superposed motions caused by the respective
movable mountings.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a movably supported earth working element
which is driven in a given path or orbit is provided with an actuating
or manipulating means whereby during operation said element may
be shifted at the will of an operator to positions in which said
path or orbit is spaced from its initial position transversely of
the line of travel of the element across the ground.
(1)
Note. The usual purpose of the lateral shifting is to follow
a crooked row of plants or to chop or avoid cutting out certain
plants in a row.
(2)
Note. The lateral shifting means may be a handle or foot lever
type attendant operated actuating means which may be selectively
moved from one latched position to another, or a handle or foot lever
type attendant operated manipulating means which may be moved from one
position and held in the position to which it is moved by continued
application of force on the manipulating means by the attendant.
for driven earth working elements which are mounted
for free or yielding movement laterally of the path of travel, there
being provided no attendant operated actuating or manipulating means
for effecting such movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Apparatus in which the earth working element is swingable
on a fixed radius about a fixed vertical axis in a generally horizontal
plane transversely across the line of travel of said element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a tooth or like earth working part or
portion is mounted on a flexible or articulated member which is
driven in a closed path or circuit relative to a frame upon which said
tooth, part, or portion and member are supported.
(1)
Note. The flexible or articulated member is generally a chain
or endless belt type carrier to which the tooth, part, or portion
is immovably fixed while said tooth, part, or portion is actually
in ground engagement, but said tooth, part, or portion may move
slightly as said carrier moves around gears, pulleys, or otherwise
changes its direction in its closed path.
Boring or Penetrating the Earth,
subclasses 89+ for an earth boring device including a tool element
on a continuously driven flexible or articulated endless member.
Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles,
subclasses 187+ for an endless flexible track for a land vehicle,
said track having detachable cleats for penetrating the ground to
secure better traction for the track.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a guide means is provided for constraining
an earth working element to move back and forth in a straight line
path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Apparatus in which the guide means limits the movement of
the earth working elements to a path transverse to the direction
of draft and lying in a horizontal plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the drive transmission means between
a driven earth working element and its motivating means is provided
with a power transmitting member which (1) slips, bends, breaks,
distorts, or in some other manner allows a relative displacement
between said earth working element and its motivating means, or
(2) can be selectively moved from one position in which the drive
transmission means is interrupted between the driven earth working
element and its motivating means to another position in which said
drive transmission means is again operative to transmit power directly
from the motivating means to the driven earth working element.
(1)
Note. Generally the function of the overload relief means
is to protect the earth working element whenever it encounters an
obstruction, while the clutch functions to interrupt the power drive
to the earth working element whenever desirable.
for driven earth working elements which are provided
with means to interrupt the power drive to said element upon a bodily
shifting of the same from one vertical position to another.
for driven earth working elements which are provided
with means to interrupt the power drive to said element upon a bodily
shifting of the same back or forth in the direction of draft.
for teeth or like earth working parts or portions
which are yieldably mounted on a power driven cyclic carrier for motion
with respect thereto upon contact by a resisting member.
for means to yieldably support an earth working
element which means may permit the earth working element to rise
up out of contact with an obstruction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Apparatus in which an overrunning clutch or its equivalent
is interposed between a ground wheel and an earth working element
driven thereby in such a manner that the wheel may drive the earth
working element when said wheel is turning in one direction but
not in the other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a driven earth working element is mounted
in a frame which is provided with a claimed ground-engaging supporting wheel
and details of a power transmitting means from the wheel to the
earth working element are set out in the claims.
(1)
Note. Mere mention of a transmission between the wheel and
the earth working element or a broad statement of the type of transmission
(e.g., gearing) have not been considered to involve detailed structure
which would require classification under this definition since traction drives
of this type are very common in the art.
(2)
Note. The wheel may itself be driven by power applied to it
or may be a freely rolling wheel. In the case of a driven wheel
the wheel must be interposed in the path of power from the source
to the earth working element to come under this definition.
for earth working elements which may be intermittently
driven from a rolling or driven ground wheel, such intermittent
drive generally being from several pins or other projections which
are spaced about the periphery of the wheel or from mutilated gears or
cam operated drive clutches which are operatively associated with
the wheel.
for earth working elements which may be driven from
a rolling or driven ground wheel and which include in the drive
transmission from such wheel an overload relief or clutch means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Apparatus in which the drive interposed between the earth
working element and a wheel includes an endless flexible force transmitting member.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which an earth working element is driven about
an axis which is parallel to the ground and is additionally located
in a plane which is generally parallel to the direction of travel
of the earth working element over the ground.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes those earth working elements
which oscillate about a longitudinal axis generally back and forth
across a crop row, for example, for thinning out or chopping cotton
plants.
for "cotton chopper" type tools
which may be driven to oscillate or rotate about a horizontal longitudinal
axis and in which the operation of said tool is further under the
control of a sensing means.
especially subclasses 70 and 73 for driven tools
which may move about a longitudinal axis and which in addition,
are combined with one or more non-driven tools.
Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclasses 39.1+ for a floor working hard material disintegrating
machine having a driven rotary cutter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Apparatus in which the rotary earth working element includes
a tooth or like earth working part or portion whose relative position
on the hub or supporting portion of said element may be adjusted.
(1)
Note. For the meaning of "adjustable", see
the class definition.
(2)
Note. This definition is intended to embrace those rotary
earth working elements in which a tooth or like earth working part
or portion thereof may be changed from one position of adjustment to
another, such tooth, part, or portion being locked in each selected
position of adjustment.
for earth working elements wherein the tooth or
like earth working parts or portions thereof are flexibly or yieldably
moved from one position to another on the supporting hub or carrier
of said elements.
for rolling earth working elements having peripherally
spaced thereon and adjustably secured thereto a plurality of teeth,
blades, or the like earth working parts or portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which an earth working element is driven about
an axis which is generally perpendicularly disposed relative to
the ground.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes those earth working elements
which oscillate about a vertical axis.
especially subclass 59, for a plurality of tools
each of which is provided with a separate individual drive means for
causing the same to move about a vertical axis.
Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 41.1 for a floor working hard material disintegrating
machine driving a substantially vertical axis cutter.
Planting,
subclass 160 for a power driven earth working tool, rotatable about
a vertical axis, which is claimed in combination with a planting machine.
Boring or Penetrating the Earth,
subclasses 170+ for a drive for an earth boring tool, and including
a drive for a vertical axis rotary-type earth boring tool which
may be manipulatively mounted on a wheeled vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is provided
with a guard or baffle means disposed in the path of material thrown from
said element generally to intercept said material and alter the
course or path of flow thereof to thereby cause said material to
be deposited in a position or location other than that which said
material would have assumed without said baffle means.
(1)
Note. This definition includes hoods or like housings or enclosures
against the inner surfaces of which unearthed material from a driven
earth working element is impinged to break up clods or lumps of
said material.
(2)
Note. This definition is intended to take those patents in
which the shield or deflector is disposed on or above the original
ground surface and performs no earth working function except that
incidental to shielding or deflecting the driven earth working element.
for screens and the like, placed in the path along
which unearthed material emerges from an earth working element to
separate constituent portions of said material.
for nondriven tools combined with driven earth working
elements which tools may be in the form of hoods or shields provided
with ground contacting parts or portions designed to perform an
earth working function such, for example, as leveling or further pulverizing
the earth proceeding from the driven implement, or breaking or scratching
the earth"s crust prior to working thereof by said driven
earth working elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112. Apparatus in which the baffle or guard means acts on the
material flowing from the driven earth working element to deflect
said material laterally of the direction of draft of said element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus comprising a motor or motor actuated means for
traversing a driven earth working element over the ground.
(1)
Note. Self-propelled or tractor-propelled implements are common
in this art. Hence for a patent to be classified under this definition,
the propulsion means must be recited in some detail, and the mere
recitation of a motor is not enough. However, a broad reference
to a wheel substitute such as a tracklaying means on a tractor is
sufficient. Also a recitation of a relationship with a propulsion
means such as the statement that an implement hitch arm is connected
to a differential housing (as distinct from merely a "rear axle
housing") is enough.
for specific propulsion means for non-driven earth
working elements, and see the Search Class Notes thereunder for
appropriate fields of search in Class 74, Machine Element or Mechanism,
Class 180, Motor Vehicles, and Class 305, Wheel Substitutes for
Land Vehicles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is used
to steer the apparatus in the desired direction as it traverses
the ground.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Apparatus in which (1) the sole means disclosed for traversing
the apparatus over the ground is the driven earth working element
and the apparatus is not disclosed as being guided by a walking
attendant or (2) the driven earth working element aids in traversing
the apparatus over the ground or is the sole means for traversing
the apparatus over the ground and there is a significant recitation
in a claim indicating this fact.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is so
mounted on a supporting frame that during normal operation said
earth working element can (1) move freely relative to said frame,
or (2) can move against the action of a biasing member which generally
urges said earth working element into a predetermined position.
(1)
Note. This definition includes lateral as well as vertical
movement, and the tool need not be capable of universal movement
but such tool may move in a guide way or the like even though the
amplitude of the movement may be limited by stop means.
(2)
Note. The movement of the tool relative to the frame as contemplated
by this definition is a shifting or movement of the tool from one
position to another in the frame, which movement is above and beyond
the motion of the tool as it is driven through its path or orbit.
Such shifting or movement may be either a translation of the tool
as a unit or simply a pivotal movement of the tool about a fixed
axis.
for a driven implement having a ground support and
being jointedly connected to a vehicle there being additionally
provided a resilient means for normally biasing the implement in
a vertical plane.
for earth working elements which are provided with
a means whereby an attendant can selectively vary the lateral position
of said elements during normal operation.
for an actuator adapted to lift a nondriven tool
for transport on a wheeled vehicle, there being provided a resilient
means for biasing the tool to a predetermined position but permitting
the same to yield on overload or the like.
for an actuator adapted to lift a nondriven tool
for transport on a wheeled frame, there being provided a lost motion
connection between the actuator and tool whereby during earth working
said tool is free to move relative to said actuator or frame.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which an earth working element is driven about
an axis which is parallel to the ground or disposed at an angle
relative to the ground and is additionally located in a plane which
is transverse to the direction of travel of the earth working element.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes those earth working elements
which are driven to and fro in an arcuate path about an axis extending
transversely to the direction of draft; e.g., oscillating hoes and
choppers.
for earth working elements which are intermittently
driven back and forth in an oscillatory path about an axis that is
disposed transversely to the direction.
Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclasses 25+ for an ice working device having a driven cutter,
and subclasses 39.1+ for a floor working hard material
disintegrating machine having a rotary cutter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Apparatus in which an earth working element which is driven
about an axis transverse to the direction of travel is provided
either with (1) a radially protruding ridge or sharpened plate or (2)
a row of radially projecting prongs, which ridge, plate or row lies
along a line which exends both longitudinally and circumferentially
of a surface of revolution, such as a cylinder or cone.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Apparatus in which an earth working element which is driven
about an axis extending transversely to the direction of travel
is in the form of a generally circular member which may be either
flat or dished.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element includes
a laterally extending bar or earth working part or portion held
on a rotatable support by openwork or by spaced supporting means.
(1)
Note. The overall appearance of these earth working elements
is very similar to that of a conventional lawn mower.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Apparatus which comprises a relatively large diameter drum
or roller-like member having spaced about the periphery thereof
a plurality of teeth, blades, or like earth working parts or portions.
(1)
Note. The peripheral surface of the drum should be in ground
contact as distinguished from a small diameter supporting shaft
for teeth, blades, cutters, or like earth working portions, which
shaft would be spaced above the ground.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Apparatus in which the earth working element is rotatably
driven about an axis extending transversely to the direction of
travel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which the driven earth working element is driven
about an axis which as viewed in plan is disposed at an angle other than
90° to the direction of draft.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a mechanical drive feature is significantly
claimed, such as a gearing, universal coupling, bearing, lubrication
means or details of a drive motor.
(1)
Note. For classification under this definition a patent must
have a claim which contains some detailed description of a particular
mechanical drive feature. Thus, the mere nominal inclusion of "a gear", "a
universal coupling", "a bearing", etc.,
will not suffice, while a more specific identification of the drive
feature such as "a worm gear", "a double clevis
type universal coupling", "a floating roller bearing",
etc., will suffice.
for mechanical drive features forming part of a
specialized drive interposed between an earth working element and
a traction and supporting wheel driving the same.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising an earth working device in combination
with means for making a mark or on the earth, which mark is to be
used as a sight line for the earth working means on a subsequent
pass over the field.
(1)
Note. This subclass is intended to include marking devices
disclosed as mounted on some earth working means (e.g., a planter)
even if the earth working means is claimed only as a support. However,
devices for making a mark in the earth disclosed as independent instrumentalities
not mounted on some principal earth working means are treated as
if they themselves were earth working devices (which they are since they
mark the earth) and are classified in appropriate subclasses below.
Geometrical Instruments,
subclasses 18.1+ for scribers of general utility comprising mechanically
guided relatively traveling means for scratching or scoring lines.
Planting,
subclasses 25+ for means, combined with or disclosed in combination
with a planter, for intermittently marking the earth to indicate seed
depositories and subclass 33 for means for intermittently impressing on
the ground a mark, or combinations of such means with means for marking
an unbroken line on a field. A planter claimed by name only, combined
with a marker is classifiable in Class 172.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus wherein the marker means is designed to make a
mark to one side of the earth working device while the apparatus
proceeds in one direction, and to shift to mark at the other side
of the implement in response to the turning of the apparatus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus comprising means for raising the earth working
device to a transport position and means interconnected therewith
to shift the earth marking means with respect to the earth working
device responsive to the raising movement of the earth working device.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not include those devices in which
the earth working device and marker are raised as a unit without
relative movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus in which the earth working device includes ground-engaging
wheels and the marker means is moved relative to the earth working
device by power derived from rotation of the wheels.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus wherein plural markers are provided and interconnected
such that when one marker is adjusted to operative position, the
other marker is simultaneously moved to inoperative position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 130. Apparatus in which the markers are mounted at opposite ends
of a common carrying member, the carrying member being movable laterally
to place the markers into alternate operative and inoperative positions.
(1)
Note. The lateral shifting is more than a mere pivoting movement.
The common carrying member is usually moved bodily in a lateral
direction and also pivoted on a longitudinal axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus having marker means mounted to pivot through approximately
180° about an axis which extends in the direction of travel
of the implement and centrally thereof so as to be alternately usable
on opposite sides of the implements.
Railways,
subclass 244.1 for furrow followers for a vehicle to guide it along
a furrow, such followers being mounted in a manner similar to that
of a marker mounting.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising the combination of earth working elements
of different size or shape each working the earth at the same time or
adjustable into earth working position.
(1)
Note. The diverse earth working elements must each be present
in the apparatus at the same time, though one may be removable leaving
another.
(2)
Note. The diverse earth working elements must be distinct
entities as distinguished from a single unit having portions of
different shape to perform different functions. For such unitary
elements see for example, subclasses 540+. A single disk
is considered a unit. Where one tool or soil working element (e.g., sweep)
is directly mounted upon another tool or soil contacting element
(e.g., cultivator shovel) or on a common support or frame and for
any given adjusted position (if the two are adjustably connected) could
be made integral and the second element in effect forms a continuation
of the first, for continuous soil contact, this is considered to
be a single tool and is excluded from this definition.
(3)
Note. The combination of a plow and an element for merely
cutting or breaking a furrow slice raised by the plow is not classified
under this definition. For subject matter of this type see subclass
758.
(4)
Note. Where one implement is claimed so broadly that it can
be considered merely a named support for the other, not distinguishable
from a general utility support such as a vehicle, the device is classified
on the basis of the other implement. See (2) Note in the definition
of subclass 452 and (5) Note in the definition of subclass 669.
(5)
Note. Earth working elements which differ merely by being
for right or left hand operation or being mirror images of one another
are not included. See subclasses 204+, 642, and 686 for
such apparatus.
(6)
Note. A device comprising an earth working element mounted
on a frame which frame may incidentally contact the earth and act
as an earth leveling member and so be considered a diverse earth
working element is not included under this definition unless the
frame is specifically shaped or modified to perform said function.
(7)
Note. The combination of an implement or implements having
a part rotated by engagement with the soil and a nonrotating part
are included under this definition even though the parts may be contiguous
or form a continuation of one another if both of said parts perform
a substantial earth working, cutting, or turning function. A plow
having a moldboard which includes rollers or a belt to reduce friction
is not included since the rollers or belts are not considered to
have any substantial earth working function. (See subclasses 717
and 718). However, a plow having a disk moldboard is included. (See
subclass 167). Also a rotating tool having a mere scraping element
for removing earth from the tool is not included while a rotating
tool having an adjacent moldboard for turning a slice raised by
the tool is included. (See subclasses 168 and 558+).
(8)
Note. A runner or landside directly connected to or forming
a direct rearward continuation of a tool is considered to be a part
of the tool. Thus, if an earth working blade, sweep, or the like
is connected to such a runner or landside the resultant device is
considered to be a single tool having multiple earth working portions and
is not classified under this definition. See subclasses 728 and
746, for example. However, if a runner or landside is spaced rearwardly
from a tool and does not form a direct continuation thereof and
has an earth working blade, sweep, or the like mounted thereon,
this is considered to be two separate tools and classification under
this definition results.
(9)
Note. A runner which is not attached to the rear of or does
not form a rearward continuation of a tool and has a plurality of
different type or shape blades or earth working portions attached
thereto rearwardly of its forward end is considered to be a mere
common support for diverse tools and the resultant apparatus is
classified under this definition. (See subclass 188).
(10)
Note. A pair of laterally spaced runners or landsides with
unlike tools mounted thereon and spanning the same is included under
this definition.
(11)
Note. Where a nonearth working mounting member for one tool
is directly connected to or carried by the earth working portion
of a diverse tool, patents will be classified under this definition
even if the claims do not recite the tool by which the member is
carried.
(12)
Note. This definition includes those devices in which one
of the tools may be solely disclosed as cutting a vertical slit in
the earth merely to prevent side sway or counterbalance side thrust.
(See subclasses 190+).
(13)
Note. Where there is combined with an earth working implement,
such as a plow, a separate and distinct member which receives soil
elevated by the implement and acts to deflect the soil to the side,
invert it, etc., the member in this combination will be considered
an earth working tool and be classified under this definition.
(14)
Note. Hand held tools having diverse earth working portions
or elements are not included. See subclasses 371+, especially
subclasses 375 and 378+ for such devices.
for apparatus comprising a tool convertible or changeable
to a diverse tool, and specially subclasses 251+ for a
tool changeable to a diverse tool by assembly or disassembly.
for a pair of relatively movable tools cooperating
to move earth to and from a plant row, the tools differing merely by
being for right or left hand operation.
and 799.5, for implements comprising plural scraping
blades which are of different size or shape, or mounted in different
angular relationship with respect to a reference line.
Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects,
subclass 4 for unearthing devices with additional earth or
plant rolling implement, subclass 6 for unearthing devices with
additional earth marker or earth conditioner, subclass 10 for unearthing
devices having preliminary removal of earth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which the diverse earth working elements are
supported or propelled by a wheeled frame and at least one of the
earth working elements operates on the soil traversed or to be traversed
by the wheel or wheels.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which an implement has earth working portions
which operate on all four sides of an implement having a diverse
earth working element.
(1)
Note. The surrounding implement may comprise a plurality of
like separate tools.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus comprising earth working elements arranged adjustably
in the apparatus so that when an element of one type is in ground-working
position an element of another type must be out of ground working
position.
(1)
Note. Hand held tools having alternately usable unlike earth
working portions or elements are excluded from the definition. See
subclass 375.
(2)
Note. This definition includes apparatus in which two integral
diverse tools must be removed and reversed to bring the diverse
tool into operation. The diverse tools must always be present in
the apparatus when the apparatus is working the earth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus including means to alter the spacial relationship
of the diverse earth working elements incident to a change in the
direction of movement.
(1)
Note. Tool mountings which merely permit relative movement
between the tools in the absence of means to change the relationship
upon turning are not classified in this and indented subclasses,
but are classified below on other bases.
(2)
Note. The variation in the spacing of the tools may be in
a horizontal direction or may be a variation in the relative elevations
of the tools.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which the diverse earth working elements are
independently mounted so as to be elevatable about separate axes
or along different paths and lifting means are connected to each
of the earth working elements the lifting means being so interrelated
that vertical movement of one earth working element is accompanied
by vertical movement of the other.
(1)
Note. The tools may move in opposite directions, i.e., one
move up while the other moves down.
(2)
Note. The lifting means may comprise an actuator or an attendant
manipulated handle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Apparatus in which the diverse earth working elements comprise
a moldboard-type tool for turning a furrow slice and a cutting knife
to cut a vertical slit in the earth in advance of the moldboard-type
tool.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus including a frame on which the diverse earth working
elements are mounted and separate means are provided to selectively vertically
move the diverse earth working elements with respect to the frame.
(1)
Note. The moving means may be an actuator or an attendant
manipulated handle.
(2)
Note. This definition includes apparatus in which both tools
are lifted by a single manipulating means and the second tool is
lifted with respect to the first by a second manipulating means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which one of the earth working elements is
of the rolling or rotating type, the axis of rotation thereof being
adjustable in a substantially horizontal plane and a diverse earth
working element adjustable about a separate point or along a different
path, the adjustment of one earth working element resulting in an
adjustment of the other earth working element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which one of the diverse earth working elements
comprises an earth working element which is formed of or supported directly
upon a member formed of resilient material.
(1)
Note. A pivoted tool having means to bias the tool about the
pivot is not included under this definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which one of the earth working elements is
of the rolling or rotating type and including brake or stop means
for slowing down or stopping the rotation or rolling thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which the diverse earth working elements comprise
a plow or earth turning element having a moldboard to turn a furrow slice,
a smaller plow or element to throw a strip of soil into the far
side of the furrow in advance of the main plow, and a cutting knife
to cut a slit in the ground forward of the plow, the plow operating
in the slit.
(1)
Note. The colter and jointer must be separate from one another
and from the plow.
(2)
Note. Patents claiming the combination of a separate colter
and jointer disclosed for use with a plow will be classified as originals
under this definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus comprising at least three diverse implements in
succession, the second implement following in or overlapping the
path of the first and the third following in or overlapping the
path of the second, the implements being longitudinally spaced and
having diverse earth working elements.
(1)
Note. Two of the implements may be the same if a different
implement intervenes.
(2)
Note. If an implement follows in or overlaps the path of travel
of a diverse implement the implements are considered to be traveling
in the same path. Thus it may be seen that three implements may be
following overlapping paths under this definition and yet the third
implement be laterally spaced with respect to the first. It should
be particularly noted, that the word "implement" covers
either a group of like earth working elements or a single earth
working element.
for three implements following the same or overlapping
paths, the first and third implements being alike and the intermediate
implement being of a different type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Apparatus in which the first and third implements in the
direction of travel are alike and the intermediate or second implement
is of a different type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Apparatus in which one of the diverse implements includes
an earth working element which is given a rotating motion by the
resistance of the earth as it is drawn thereover.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Apparatus in which the rolling earth working element comprises
a smooth surface compaction roller of uniform diameter and free
from protuberances or depressions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus comprising four or more earth working elements
spaced laterally of the direction of travel, the elements being
alternately alike, but successively unlike.
(1)
Note. The alternate earth working elements may consist of
a group of like tools.
This subclass is indented under subclass 152. Apparatus in which one set of alternate earth working elements
is of the rolling type while the other set of alternate earth working
elements is of the nonrolling type thus providing a laterally spaced
group of earth working elements which are successively of the rolling
and nonrolling type.
(1)
Note. This definition includes a single rolling tool having
a plurality of laterally spaced sets of tines, teeth or the like
with nonrolling tools operating in paths between the sets of teeth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 152. Apparatus in which the diverse earth working elements are
all of the rolling type.
(1)
Note. This definition includes two rolling tools having laterally
spaced sets of teeth, tines, or the like with the sets of one tool
operating in paths between the sets of the other tool.
(2)
Note. This definition includes apparatus having relatively
rotatable earth working elements of different shape or contour even
if the members axially abut or one element carries the other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus comprising a pair of like earth working elements
spaced laterally of the direction of travel and a diverse earth
working element which operates along a path intermediate the paths
of the like elements.
(1)
Note. Laterally spaced right and left hand tools are considered
to be like earth working elements under this definition.
for a tool with a rearwardly spaced sweep or earth
working blade, etc., which is attached to the tool standard or mounted
on a member attached to the tool or its standard.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Apparatus in which the spaced like earth working elements
are of the rolling or rotating type and the intermediate earth working
element is of the nonrolling type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Apparatus in which the spaced like earth working elements
are of the nonrolling type and the intermediate earth working element
is of the rolling or rotating type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Apparatus in which the laterally spaced like earth working
elements and the intermediate diverse earth working element are
all of the rolling or rotating type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Apparatus in which the laterally spaced earth working elements
are nonidentical or positioned in a nonidentical way so as to function in
a right and left handed manner and so located and constructed as
to be mirror images of each other, and the intermediate earth working
element comprises an element of symmetrical shape.
(1)
Note. For the definition of a symmetrical tool see subclass
721.
for a tool with a rearwardly spaced sweep or earth
working blade, etc., which is attached to the tool standard or mounted
on a member attached to the tool or its standard.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Apparatus in which one of the earth working elements comprises
a straight tooth of uniform or decreasing diameter in a downward
direction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus in which one of the earth working elements comprises
earth working means (other than a scraper) adapted to be adjusted
so as to shift the earth in alternate lateral directions with respect
to the direction of draft at different times.
This subclass is indented under subclass 161. Apparatus in which adjustment of the earth working means
for alternate operation is accompanied by an adjustment of the diverse earth
working element.
(1)
Note. The adjustment of the diverse tool may comprise merely
the operation of a latch or lock which holds the tool in adjusted
position or may comprise the adjustment of the diverse tool in response
to operation of a latch or lock to permit adjustment of the alternating implement.
(2)
Note. This definition does not include apparatus in which
the alternating implement and diverse tool are rigidly connected
and adjusted as a unit. Nor does this definition include apparatus
in which the diverse tool is freely mounted and may assume a different
position upon reversal of the alternating implement due to altered
ground resistance, gravity, etc.
(3)
Note. The diverse tool is usually a jointer or colter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Apparatus comprising the combination of an earth working
element having a moldboard for raising and inverting a furrow slice
and a second earth working element operating in advance of the first
and operative to raise and turn a smaller furrow slice and deposit
it in the far side of a previously formed furrow so as to be covered
by the furrow slice of the moldboard-type earth working element.
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