CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional application serial No. 61/660,704 entitled "WASTE AND BRUSH COLLECTION AND PROCESSING SYSTEM" which was filed on June 16, 2012, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a collection and processing system, and in particular to a yard waste collection and processing system for collection, mulching, and loading yard waste.

[0002] A variety of machines have been developed to collect, reduce, and otherwise process yard waste and brush products. Included therein are machines that vacuum or otherwise collect the debris; mulch, cut, grind, comminute, or otherwise reduce the debris; and discharge, propel, or otherwise load the debris where desired.

[0003] These waste and brush processing systems typically include a positionable infeed chute, a fan and mulching blade connected thereto for creating a vacuum in the infeed chute and for mulching the yard debris, and an angled outlet chute for directing the processed debris into a container (e.g., a truck bed) for removal thereafter.

[0004] Although these types of waste collection systems have worked fairly well, they suffer from the disadvantage that, inter alia, the angled discharge chute routinely becomes plugged while the collection/mulching operation is being conducted; the discharge chute is not positionable; and the discharge chute is not readily serviceable (e.g., for clearing an obstruction). While there are many factors that contribute to these systems becoming clogged (e.g., inoperable), such reasons include the angle of the discharge chute creating restrictions in the discharge system, and the non-uniform characteristics of the material and its size and shape of the debris being collected. For example, wet leaves have a tendency to clog such systems more than dry leaves; and branches, twigs, and sticks have a tendency to clog such systems more than leaves alone. As such, when these systems are used to collect wet and dry leaves, as well as sticks and twigs, these system routinely become clogged and then inoperable.

[0005] As such, such systems must be frequently cleared of such obstructions and clogs, and typically require disassembly of various parts of the system before the collecting operation may continue. Such operations (clearing obstructions) can be difficult, time consuming, and costly. As the clogging of these existing systems tends to be often, the maintenance becomes problematic and often results in the user reverting to manual collection (e.g., raking) thereby defeating the purpose of the system in the first place.

[0006] Yet another disadvantage: these systems suffer from the inability to regulate the discharge stream of particles. For example, in systems that discharge into a truck bed, after a certain amount of debris is collected, piles of debris are formed in the bed. This results in non-uniform loading of the bed and as such, either the collection system, and more often the truck must be moved to facilitate an even and uniform loading of the truck bed and for maximum loading capability.

[0007] Still another disadvantage is that such existing systems are not adapted to be disposed on or otherwise connected to other waste processing systems such as, for example, wood chippers, stump grinders, and the like.

[0008] Accordingly, a need exists for novel systems which have, among other advantages, increased utility, efficiency, operability, and performance, while reducing downtime, maintenance, and operational costs. Additionally, needs exist for novel systems which have, among other advantages, the ability to be self-contained systems, as well as systems that are part of larger waste processing machines. Therefore, a waste and brush collection system that solves the aforementioned disadvantages and having the aforementioned advantages is desired.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0009] The aforementioned drawbacks and disadvantages of these former waste processing machines have been identified and a solution is set forth herein and includes a yard waste and brush collection and processing system for collection, mulching, and loading yard waste. [0010] Another aspect of the present invention includes a waste and brush collection and processing system adapted for use with waste processing systems, and in particular adapted for use with hand fed chippers, stump grinders, and the like.

[0011] Yet another aspect of the present invention includes a yard waste collection and processing system which comprises: a motor; a housing which comprises an inlet for receiving yard waste and an outlet disposed adjacent side of housing for discharging the yard waste; a rotor operatively disposed in the housing and operatively connected to the motor for rotation thereby; and a base which is adapted to operatively support at least one of the motor and the housing.

[0012] Further aspects of the present invention may comprise outlets: which are disposed at an angle less than or equal to 45 degrees with respect to the base; which are disposed at an angle less than or equal to 45 degrees with respect to the inlet; which are disposed at an angle less than or equal to 45 degrees with respect to a trailer supporting the base; wherein at least a portion of the outlet is disposed at or below a reference line as defined by a center of the rotor and parallel with the base; and wherein a center of the outlet is disposed at or below a horizontal reference line with respect to the base.

[0013] Further aspects of the present invention may comprise a discharge chute: which comprises a first end connected to the outlet and an opposite second open end, wherein the discharge chute further comprises a longitudinally straight channel, conduit, chamber or the like which is not angled along a discharge chute centerline from the first end to the second open end; which comprises a discharge chute which provides for, is adapted for, and otherwise allows for a non-obstructive, non-restrictive, straight, and non-curved flow of processed yard waste from the outlet to an end of the discharge chute; wherein the discharge chute further comprises a first section and a second section, whereby the second section is pivotally connected to the first section for interior access to the first and second sections; further, the pivotal connection may comprise a hinge operatively connected to the first and the second section, and may further comprise a safety switch to prevent operation of the motor when the pivotal connection is pivoted; which comprises an adjustable deflector operatively disposed adjacent the second end thereof; which is radially and pivotally positionable so as to allow the discharge of processed material at angles from 0 to 360 degrees radially, and from at least 0 to 45 degrees pivotally. Still further aspects of the present invention may comprise an outlet: which is positionable (e.g., adapted to pivot (pivotally attached)) with respect to the base; is positionable (adapted to radially move) with respect to the trailer; is radially positionable with respect to a center of the rotor; is radially positionable with respect to a center of the base; and is radially positionable with respect to a center of the base. Further embodiments may also include an outlet which is pivotally positionable between at least 0 and 45 degrees; and is radially positionable between at least 0 and 180 degrees; a bottom of the outlet is disposed at or below a horizontal reference line with respect to the base; and a flexible Discharge chute to use as a blower

Yet still further aspects of the present invention may include a rotor which comprises a plurality rotors; and rotors which comprise a plurality of blades adapted to process the yard waste. And, even further embodiments may comprise a trailer adapted to support the base and be towed by a vehicle.

Further aspects of the present invention comprise a trailerable waste processing system for collecting, comminuting, and discharging organic matter such as leaves, twigs, and the like, wherein the system comprises a motor and a housing which comprises an interior region defining a mulching chamber. The housing further comprises a first and a second side and a sidewall disposed therebetween, as well as includes an inlet which is disposed on the first side for receiving organic matter, and an outlet disposed on the sidewall for discharging organic matter. Also disclosed: is a rotor which is disposed in the mulching chamber and is operatively connected to the motor for rotation thereby for creating a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet and for reducing yard waste; and a trailer which is adapted to support at least one of the motor and the housing in a rotational and pivotal manner with respect to the trailer, wherein the outlet is adapted to be pivoted from at least an angle of less than 45 degrees with respect to the trailer.

Additional aspects may also comprise a discharge chute which is adapted to be connected to the outlet for discharging the organic yard waste, whereby the discharge chute is straight along a centerline thereof; and a flexible inlet chute which is adapted to be connected to the inlet for assisting with the remote collection of organic matter.

Still further aspects of the present invention may include A yard waste collecting and processing system which comprises: a motor; a housing which comprises an interior region defining a mulching chamber, the housing comprising a first and a second side, and a sidewall disposed therebetween; wherein the housing further includes an inlet centrally disposed on the first side for suctioning yard waste into the mulching chamber, and an outlet disposed on the sidewall for expelling yard waste form the mulching chamber; a positionable inlet chute connected to the inlet for collecting yard waste; a straight discharge chute connected to the outlet for discharging yard waste, the discharge chute further comprising a deflector at an exit end thereof and at least two sections, the at least two sections being pivotal to one another; a rotor disposed in the mulching chamber and operatively connected to the motor for rotation thereby and for creating a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet and for reducing yard waste; and a trailerable base adapted to support at least one of the motor and the housing in a rotational manner, wherein at least a portion of the outlet is adapted to be disposed below a horizontal reference line which extends through a center of the housing and is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the trailer when the housing is in an operable configuration.

Further aspects of the present invention which are disclosed include a wood chipper which includes a frame, an infeed assembly operatively attached to the frame, a rotatable cutting assembly spaced from the infeed assembly and operatively attached to the frame, and at least one feed wheel operatively attached to the frame and disposed between the infeed assembly and the cutting assembly to feed wood material to the cutting assembly, wherein the improvement relates to a waste processing system for collecting, comminuting, and discharging organic matter such as wood chips, leaves, twigs, and the like, the waste processing system comprising: a housing which comprises an interior region defining a mulching chamber, the housing comprising a first and a second side, and a sidewall disposed therebetween and further including an inlet centrally disposed on the first side for suctioning organic matter into the mulching chamber, and an outlet disposed on the sidewall for expelling organic matter form the mulching chamber; a positionable inlet chute connected to the inlet for collecting yard waste; a discharge chute connected to the outlet for discharging organic matter; and a rotor disposed in the mulching chamber, the rotor operatively connected to the motor for rotation thereby for creating a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet so as to suction organic matter via the inlet into the housing, for reducing organic matter within the housing, and for expelling organic matter via the outlet, wherein the discharge chute of the waste processing system terminates into the discharge chute of the chipper.

[0020] Even further aspects of the wood chipper may comprise a discharge chute: which comprises a first end connected to the outlet and an opposite second open end, wherein the discharge chute further comprises a longitudinally straight channel, conduit, chamber or the like which is not angled along a discharge chute centerline from the first end to the second open end; which comprises a discharge chute which provides for, is adapted for, and otherwise allows for a non-obstructive, non-restrictive, straight, and non-curved flow of processed yard waste from the outlet to an end of the discharge chute; wherein the discharge chute further comprises a first section and a second section, whereby the second section is pivotally connected to the first section for interior access to the first and second sections; further, the pivotal connection may comprise a hinge operatively connected to the first and the second section, and may further comprise a safety switch to prevent operation of the motor when the pivotal connection is pivoted; and which is radially and pivotally positionable.

[0021] Still further aspects of the wood chipper may comprise an outlet: which is positionable (e.g., adapted to pivot (pivotally attached)) with respect to the frame; is positionable (adapted to radially move) with respect to the frame; is radially positionable with respect to a center of the rotor. Yet still further aspects of the wood chipper may include a rotor which comprises a plurality rotors; and rotors which comprise a plurality of blades adapted to process the yard waste.

[0022] Still further aspects of the present invention may include a stump grinder

(including a motor, a frame, a cutting assembly operatively supported by the frame and operatively driven by the motor, and an actuating assembly operatively connected to the frame, motor, and the cutting assembly wherein the actuating assembly is adapted to direct movement of the cutting assembly relative to a stump) wherein the improvement relates to a waste processing system for collecting, comminuting, and discharging organic matter such as wood chips, leaves, twigs, and the like, the waste processing system which comprises: a housing comprising an interior region defining a mulching chamber, the housing comprising a first and a second side, and a sidewall disposed therebetween, and an inlet centrally disposed on the first side for suctioning organic matter into the mulching chamber, and an outlet disposed on the sidewall for expelling organic matter form the mulching chamber; a discharge chute connected to the outlet for discharging organic matter, the discharge chute may further comprise a deflector at an exit end thereof and at least two sections, the at least two sections being pivotal to one another; and a rotor disposed in the mulching chamber, the rotor operatively connected to the motor for rotation thereby for creating a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet so as to suction organic matter via the inlet into the housing, for reducing organic matter within the housing, and for expelling organic matter via the outlet.

[0023] Even further aspects of the stump grinder may include an outlet which is adapted to be disposed below a horizontal reference line which extends through a center of the housing and is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the trailer when the housing is in an operable configuration.

[0024] Further aspects of the stump grinder may comprise outlets: which are disposed at an angle less than or equal to 45 degrees with respect to the frame; which are disposed at an angle less than or equal to 45 degrees with respect to the inlet; wherein at least a portion of the outlet is disposed at or below a reference line as defined by a center of the rotor and parallel with the frame; and wherein a center of the outlet is disposed at or below a horizontal reference line with respect to the frame.

[0025] Still further aspects of the stump grinder may comprise a discharge chute: which comprises a first end connected to the outlet and an opposite second open end, wherein the discharge chute further comprises a longitudinally straight channel, conduit, chamber or the like which is not angled along a discharge chute centerline from the first end to the second open end; which comprises a discharge chute which provides for, is adapted for, and otherwise allows for a non-obstructive, non-restrictive, straight, and non-curved flow of processed yard waste from the outlet to an end of the discharge chute; wherein the discharge chute further comprises a first section and a second section, whereby the second section is pivotally connected to the first section for interior access to the first and second sections; further, the pivotal connection may comprise a hinge operatively connected to the first and the second section, and may further comprise a safety switch to prevent operation of the motor when the pivotal connection is pivoted; which comprises an adjustable deflector operative ly disposed adjacent the second end thereof; and which is radially and pivotally positionable.

[0026] Still further aspects of the stump grinder may comprise an outlet: which is positionable (e.g., adapted to pivot (pivotally attached)) with respect to the frame; is positionable (adapted to radially move) with respect to the frame; and is radially positionable with respect to a center of the rotor. Further embodiments may also include an outlet which is pivotally positionable between at least 0 and 45 degrees, and is radially positionable between at least 0 and 180 degrees. Yet still further aspects of the present invention may include a rotor which comprises a plurality rotors; and rotors which comprise a plurality of blades adapted to process the yard waste.

[0027] Other objects, advantages, and features of the invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and drawings. As such, the above brief descriptions set forth, rather broadly, the more important features of the present novel invention so that the detailed descriptions that follow may be better understood and so that the contributions to the art may be better appreciated. There are of course additional features that will be described hereinafter which will form the subject matter of the claims.

[0028] In this respect, before explaining the preferred embodiment of the disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and the arrangement set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. To wit, the waste and brush collection and processing machine, systems, and devices of the present disclosure are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for description and not limitation. Where specific dimensional and material specifications have been included or omitted from the specification or the claims, or both, it is to be understood that the same are not to be incorporated into the claims, unless so claimed.

[0029] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be used as a basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important therefore that the claims are regarded as including such equivalent constructions, as far as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0030] Further, the purpose of the Abstract is to enable the United States Patent and

Trademark Office, the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers, and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with the patent or legal terms of phraseology, to learn quickly, from a cursory inspection, the nature of the technical disclosure of the application. Accordingly, the Abstract is intended to define neither the invention nor the application, which is only measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any manner.

[0031] These and other objects, along with the various features and structures that characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the waste and bruch collection and processing machine, systems, and devices of the present disclosure, its advantages, and the specific traits attained by its use, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and other descriptive matter in which there are illustrated and described the preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0032] As such, while embodiments of the waste and brush collection and processing machine, systems, and devices are herein illustrated and described, it is to be appreciated that various changes, rearrangements, and modifications may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] As a compliment to the description and for better understanding of the specification presented herein, 23 pages of drawings are disclosed with an informative, but not limiting, intention.

[0034] Fig. 1 is a side view of a prior art collection system;

[0035] Fig. 2 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention, in a side discharge position and with the fuel tank removed for illustrative clarity;

[0036] Fig. 3 is a side view of the system of Fig. 2, in a front discharge position, without an inlet chute and including the fuel tank; [0037] Fig. 4 is a rear view of the system of Fig. 3, with the fuel tank and inlet chute removed for illustrative clarity;

[0038] Fig. 5 illustrates the waste and brush collection and processing system of Fig. 2, with the discharge chute in an open configuration, and with the inlet chute removed for illustrative clarity;

[0039] Fig. 6 illustrates the waste and brush collection and processing system of Fig. 3, with the discharge chute in an open configuration;

[0040] Fig. 7 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention (inlet chute removed);

[0041] Fig. 8 is a side view of a prior art collection system depicting a typical loading of a truck bed via the discharge chute;

[0042] Fig. 9 is a side view of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention illustrating the improved loading of a truck bed via an improved discharge chute, and also depicting one embodiment of a positionable discharge chute which pivots (inlet chute removed);

[0043] Fig. 10 is a top view of another embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention illustrating the improved loading of a truck bed via an improved discharge chute, and also depicting one embodiment of a positionable discharge chute which rotates (inlet chute and fuel tank removed);

[0044] Fig. 10A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention, in a rear discharge position

(inlet chute and fuel tank removed);

[0045] Fig. 10B illustrates the waste and brush collection and processing system of Fig.

10A, with the discharge chute rotated to a side position;

[0046] Fig. 11 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention illustrating the improved loading of a truck bed via an improved discharge chute, and also depicting one embodiment of a positionable deflector which pivots (inlet chute removed);

[0047] Fig. 12 is a side view of still another embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention (inlet chute removed); Fig. 13 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention (inlet chute removed);

Fig. 14 is an partial perspective view of a rotor assembly and housing according to one embodiment of the present invention, with a housing cover removed for illustrative clarity;

Fig. 15 is an perspective view of a rotor assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 16 is an front view of a rotor assembly according to still another embodiment of the present invention, comprising replaceable blades;

Fig. 17 is a side view of a replaceable blade of Fig. 16 according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 18 is a front view of a rotor of Fig. 16 according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 19 is a front view of another rotor of Fig. 16 according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 20 is a side view of a side of a housing of Fig. 14 according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 21 is a side view of a prior art wood chipper;

Fig. 22 is a side view of a wood chipper according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 23A and 23B are side views of a stump grinder according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of the preferred embodiment, wherein similar referenced characters designate corresponding features throughout the several figures of the drawings.

For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal", and derivatives thereof, shall relate to the invention as oriented in Fig. 3. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0061] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, these same referenced numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. Like features between the various embodiments utilize similar numerical designations. Where appropriate, the various similar features have been further differentiated by an alphanumeric designation, wherein the corresponding alphabetic designator has been changed. Further, the dimensions illustrated in the drawings (if provided) are included for purposes of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Additionally, particular details in the drawings which are illustrated in hidden or dashed lines are to be considered as forming no part of the present invention.

[0062] As used herein, the terms wood, waste, yard, brush, organic, matter, and derivatives thereof, are meant to be used and defined in its broad, general, and ordinary sense, and the terminology is meant to include material such as stems, branches, twigs, leaves, grass, and the like, or anything else that could otherwise be deposited, recycled, reduced, or otherwise processed from a site or yard, as is generally known within the art.

[0063] As used herein, the terms waste, brush, collection, and processing system, and derivatives thereof, and as applied to the waste and brush collection and processing system of the disclosed invention are meant to be used and defined in its general and ordinary sense. To wit, systems that recycle, reduce, or otherwise process wood and brush products. Included therein are machines that chip, cut, grind or otherwise reduce yard waste products and include, generally, vacuums, blowers, mulchers, chippers, shredders, grinders, and the like. Of course, this is not meant to be limiting in any manner and these systems may take on numerous configurations, and may be used for numerous purposes as is generally known within the art, including to collect, reduce, and deposit yard waste material (e.g., yard waste) from a job site and yard, for collection and removal therefrom.

[0064] As depicted in Fig. 1, an exemplary prior art yard waste collection system 2 is disclosed and includes the primary components of a base 4, a motor 5, and a housing 6, an inlet chute 7, and an outlet chute 8. As is generally known in the art, these systems further comprise a fan or rotor (not shown) disposed in the housing 6 for inducing a vacuum in the inlet or inlet chute 7, for processing the yard waste (e.g., mulching) within the housing 6, and for expelling the yard waste through the outlet or discharge chute 8.

[0065] Additionally, as these systems are designed to discharge the waste into a desired area, typically a truck bed or other transportable trailer 3, such that the waste material may be removed from the job site. As such, the configuration of these prior art systems is such that the outlet 9 of the housing 6 is generally disposed upwardly (e.g., discharging generally vertically as opposed to horizontally) while the discharge chute 8 is curved so as to direct the discharged stream of waste material into the truck bed (e.g., discharging generally horizontally as opposed to vertically). That is to say that while the outlet is generally vertical, the discharge stream which is desired is generally horizontal, creating a discharge angle a.

[0066] While such configurations are known and used, they are problematic in that, inter alia, any curvature of the discharge chute will result in a reduced pressure and restriction of flow and discharge of the particles. For example, the prior art system illustrated in Fig. 1 utilizes a bend which is 90 degrees and thereby causes increased resistance, decreased pressure, decreased wind/discharge velocities, and decreased flow. Accordingly, this increases the likelihood that the discharge chute will become obstructed or clogged, whereby the obstructions must then be cleared before normal operation may resume and continue.

[0067] As used herein, these prior art systems will be generally described and defined as top discharge systems. A top discharge system is a system wherein the outlet 9 is disposed, open to, and directed towards and above a centerline C (e.g., by an angle a) as depicted in Fig. 1. These top discharge systems have been used in order to vertically lift and then horizontally direct the discharged stream of material into the truck bed or trailer, the trailer generally being higher or above ground level. [0068] Additionally and as used herein, these prior art systems will be generally described and defined as curved, restrictive, bent, and otherwise non-straight discharge systems. A curved discharge system is a system wherein the outlet 9 or outlet chute 8 comprises a channel which is curved or otherwise restrictive as compared to a straight channel. Again, these discharge systems have been used in order to lift and then direct the discharged stream of material into the truck bed or trailer.

[0069] While there are many factors that contribute to these systems having reduced performance, as well as becoming clogged (e.g., inoperable), the non-uniform characteristics of the material and its size and shape of the debris being collected may be contributing factors. For example, wet leaves have a tendency to clog such systems more than dry leaves; and branches, twigs, and sticks have a tendency to clog such systems more than leaves alone. As such, when these systems are used to collect wet and dry leaves, as well as sticks and twigs, these system routinely become clogged and then inoperable. Further problems comprise a discharge chute which is not readily positionable, as well as not readily serviceable (e.g., for clearing an obstruction).

[0070] As such, such prior art systems must be frequently cleared of obstructions and typically require disassembly of various parts of the system before the collecting operation may continue. Such operations (clearing obstructions) can be difficult, time consuming, and costly. Further, as the clogging of these existing systems tends to be often, the maintenance becomes problematic and often results in the user reverting to manual collection (e.g., raking) thereby defeating the purpose of the system in the first place.

[0071] Yet another disadvantage is that the prior art systems do not allow for the regulation and directional control of the discharged stream of particles. For example, in systems that discharge into a truck bed, and after a certain amount of debris is collected, piles of debris are formed in the bed. This often results in non-uniform loading of the bed and as such, either the collection system, and more often the truck must be moved to facilitate an even and uniform loading of the truck bed and for maximum loading capability. [0072] Still another disadvantage is that such existing systems are not adapted to be disposed on or otherwise connected to other waste processing systems such as, for example, wood chippers, stump grinders, and the like.

[0073] Accordingly, a need exists for novel systems which have, among other advantages, increased utility, efficiency, operability, and performance, while reducing downtime, maintenance, and operational costs. Additionally, needs exist for novel systems which have, among other advantages, the ability to be self-contained systems, as well as systems that are part of larger waste processing machines. Therefore, a waste and brush collection system that solves the aforementioned disadvantages and having the aforementioned advantages is desired.

[0074] The disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art are overcome through the waste and brush collection and processing system of the present invention, wherein one preferred embodiment is disclosed in figures 2-4.

[0075] In a broader sense, Figs. 2-3 illustrates an embodiment of the waste and brush collection and processing system 10 which includes the primary systems of a motor 12, operatively connected to a fan, impeller, or rotor 14 disposed in a housing 20 (see Fig. 3), the housing 20 comprising an inlet 30 for receiving yard waste, and outlet 40 for discharging the yard waste, and a base 60 for supporting one or more of the aforementioned components. In general, the motor 12 may comprise any motor that is capable of and adapted to rotate rotor 14 within housing 20 (e.g., via an axel).

[0076] As illustrated in Fig. 4, housing 20 is generally enclosed except for inlet 30 and outlet 40, and includes a first side or wall 22, a second side or wall 24, and a third side or sidewall 26 extending therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment the inlet 30 comprises a tubular orifice which is centrally located on the first side 22 of housing 20. Further, the outlet 40 may comprise a second centerline C2 which is radially disposed at an angle l with respect to a first horizontal references line CI of the base 60.

[0077] The base 60 may comprise any support or base that is adapted to and capable of supporting the system (e.g., one or both of the motor 12 and housing 20) and in the illustrated example, base 60 comprises an first section 62 which is rotatably mounted to a second section 64, wherein the entire base 60 is then mounted to a trailer 66 which is adapted to be towed by a vehicle and includes a hitch 67 and wheels 68 for transporting the system 10.

[0078] Operatively housed within housing 20 and operatively connected to the motor 12 for rotation thereby is rotor 14 which may comprise any known rotor, fan, impeller, and comminuting device or devices which are adapted to create a vacuum (e.g., negative or reduced pressure) in the inlet 30 such that waste yard, waste, and organic material may be drawn in therethrough and into the interior processing or mulching chamber 28 for processing, and then expelled or discharged through the outlet 40.

[0079] The illustrated example also depicts an outlet 40 comprising a tubular orifice which is located between the first side 22 and the second side 24, and through sidewall 26 of housing 20. Outlet 40 generally comprises a first or bottom portion 42, a second or top portion 46, and a second longitudinal centerline C2 disposed coaxially, centrally therebetween and through a central portion 44.

[0080] As described hereinabove, the prior art systems (2) comprise top discharge systems which discharge in the top half of the housing (6), wherein the outlet (8) is generally disposed above the reference line C as depicted in Fig. 1, and are typically disposed at an angle a of greater than 45 degrees and to 90 degrees (or more). Thus the outlet chute must be curved or bent (e.g., 90 degrees) to create the desired discharge that is generally horizontal. As described above this can be problematic.

[0081] As such, the inventive system 10 overcomes the restrictive nature of these top discharge and curved systems, by orienting outlet 40 as a bottom discharge and straight system. A bottom discharge system is a system which discharges in the bottom half of the housing 20. This includes any portion of the outlet 40 being disposed at or below a third horizontal reference line C3 which intersects the center of rotor 14 and which extends therethrough horizontally. This may include, for example: an outlet 40 having an angle l which may be fixed or variable with respect to reference CI; an outlet 40 having one or more of its bottom 42, center 44, and top 46 portion being disposed at or below the bottom half of the housing 20 (e.g., below C3); and an outlet 40 having a variable angle al in one embodiment of from approximately 0 degrees to 90, more preferably from approximately 0 degrees to 70 degrees, and even more preferably from approximately 20 degrees to 50 degrees from the first horizontal or base reference line CI . In another embodiment the angle l is variable and preferably ranges from 45 degrees and below with respect to the base 60, and further embodiments include ranging from 45 degrees and below with respect to the inlet 30; and ranging from 45 degrees and below with respect to the trailer 66. And in yet another embodiment, a center of the outlet is disposed at or below a horizontal reference line CI with respect to the base.

[0082] While outlet 40 may be fixed (e.g., fixed at an angle al as in Fig. 4), another embodiment includes an outlet 40 which is be positionable (e.g., radially pivoted by an angle al) through various mechanisms. In the illustrated embodiments depicted by Figs. 2-3, one such mechanism is depicted which comprises one or more clamps 70 that are adapted to securely position housing 20 when set, tightened, clamped, or otherwise locked down, while allowing housing 20 to be rotated when opened, loosened, undamped, or otherwise not locked. This may be accomplished through, for example only, set screws, clamps, and the like.

[0083] Further and as depicted in Fig. 5, the base 60 may comprise a first section 62 which can pivot or rotate on a second section 64. In this manner, the outlet 40 can be radially rotated in a direction R through an angle a2 of from, if desired, 0 degrees to 360 degrees. In the embodiment illustrated, the base 60 is rotatable on the trailer 66 via, inter alia, a locking mechanism 71 which allows rotation when desired as well as prevents rotation when desired.

[0084] In one embodiment, locking mechanism 71 comprises a spring loaded lever or pin

72 operatively mounted to one of the base plates 62 and 64 which is adapted to interlock with a receptacle or hole 74 on the other of the base plates 64 and 62 thereby allowing movement between plates 62/64 when the lever or pin is removed from the corresponding hole, and not allowing movement between plates 62/64 when the lever or pin is disposed within the corresponding hole. Of course, other mechanisms may be utilized which are adapted to securely position housing 20 when set, tightened, clamped, or otherwise locked down and which allowing housing 20 to be rotated when opened, loosened, undamped, or otherwise not locked, and may include, for example only, set screws, clamps, and the like.

[0085] As illustrated in Fig. 2, system 10 may also comprise an inlet chute 32 which is adapted to be temporarily or permanently affixed to inlet 30, as well as a discharge chute 50 which may be removable or permanently affixed to outlet 40. In one exemplary embodiment as depicted in Figs. 2-6, discharge chute 50 comprises a straight tube (e.g., having no bends along a longitudinal axis C2) and therefore allows material entering outlet 40 to be discharged without encountering any restrictions or producing any pressure or velocity reductions, thereby preventing (or at least reducing) the possibility of creating an obstruction, reducing the pressure, reducing the velocity, or otherwise restricting or reducing the flow of material within the chute 50. Also depicted is a positionable deflector 58 which is adapted for rotation on an end 52 of chute 50 so that the discharged stream of material can be adjusted further and thereby.

[0086] As best seen in Figs. 5 and 6, another embodiment of discharge chute 50 is illustrated and comprises a bifurcated discharge chute including a first section or portion 54 which is pivotally connected to a second section or portion 56. In this manner, the interiors of both sections 54, 56 can be accessed by pivoting the second section 56 with respect to the first section 54. As such, if an obstruction were to occur, access to the interior portions of chute 50 is easily accomplished and the obstruction could then be easily cleared.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment the pivotal connection is accomplished through a hinge 80 connected to a first 82 and a second 84 plate, wherein the first plate 82 is connected to a third end 88 of first portion 54 of chute 50, and the second plate 84 is connected to a second end 86 of second portion 56 of chute 50. A fourth end 90 of chute 50 is connected to outlet 40.

[0088] As depicted in Fig. 6, one embodiment includes a switch 100 operatively disposed between the first section 54 and second section 56 which is operatively connected to the motor 12 such that if chute 50 is opened (e.g., first and second portions 54, 56 are pivoted relative to one another), the motor 12 is made inoperable and thereby prevents access to the interior portions of chute 50 while the motor 12 is operable. Fig. 6 also depicts the pivotal connection 71 for rotation of system 10 whereby the connection comprises a biased pin 72 (e.g., spring biased) attached to section 62 which is adapted to fit into holes 74 disposed on section 64.

[0089] While a more preferred discharge chute 50 is longitudinally straight, Fig. 7 depicts an alternate embodiment wherein discharge chute 50B includes a curvature a3 which, in conjunction with the other features described herein, allows for less restrictive flow than prior art systems.

[0090] Additionally, the embodiments depicted in Figs. 2-7 illustrate systems having a discharge chute 50 that are radially and pivotally positionable (either individually or together) with respect to the base 60 and trailer 66. As such, the disclosed systems allow for numerous and varied adjustment of the discharge stream. For example, the discharge chute 50 may be adjusted (e.g., radially pivoted and rotated) through an angle al; the discharge chute 50 may be adjusted (e.g., radially rotated or pivoted) through an angle a2; and further, the deflector 58 can be adjusted (e.g., rotated or pivoted) for still further and additional adjustment of the discharged stream. Of course, radial adjustment al, pivotal adjustment a2, and deflector adjustment a4 (see Fig. 11), in addition to tube curvature a3, may be utilized either separately or together in any combination.

[0091] Fig. 8 depicts the loading of a truck bed according to the prior art system 2, wherein the system 2 may be trailered behind a truck having a bed 3. In use then, the system is powered up and the inlet chute 7 (not shown) is moved accordingly and to collect or vacuum the waste debris. After being processed by the rotor (not shown), the waste material is then discharged via discharge chute 8 into a stream S into the truck bed 3 whereby the waste debris will accumulate, form, or otherwise pile up as depicted by reference A. However, because the system 2 is not positionable (e.g., rotatable, pivot- able) the piles of debris will tend to collect in a non-uniform manner (e.g., in location A only) thereby leaving location B improperly filled.

[0092] As such, Fig. 9 illustrates an embodiment 10A of the present inventive waste and brush collection system which overcomes the above-identified disadvantages wherein the discharge chute 50 can be pivoted, for example from a first position 110 to a second position 112, thereby adjusting or moving the stream of particles S, thereby allowing for piles of waste product P to be formed wherever the operator desires. Accordingly, this then allows for the truck bed to be filled (e.g., waste material deposited) at any desired location and at multiple desired locations within the bed, and thereby allowing the bed to be filled in any desired configuration and in a more uniform manner.

[0093] Further, Figs. 10, 10A and 10B illustrate an embodiment 10B wherein the discharge chute 50 can be rotated (R) by or to an angle a2. For example: from a position 115; to a third position 114; and to a fourth position 116, thereby again allowing the stream of particles S to be adjusted, moved, positioned, or otherwise deposited according to the operators requirements rather than being determined by a (fixed) position of the system. Accordingly, the piles of waste product (P) can be located within the truck bed as desired.

[0094] Yet further, Fig. 11 illustrates an embodiment IOC wherein a deflector 58, rotatably and pivotally mounted to discharge chute 50, can be rotated, for example from a from a fifth position 118 to a sixth position 119, again allowing the stream of particles S to be adjusted, moved, positioned, or otherwise deposited according to the operators requirements and thereby allowing the accumulation of waste product to be located within the truck bed for uniform coverage and as desired.

[0095] Accordingly, and owing to the improved discharge chute 50 and 50B, the system

10 is less likely to become obstructed. However, and as described hereinabove, in case an obstruction should occur, one embodiment of the discharge chute 50 may be bifurcated (see Figs. 5-6) into two (or more) sections 54, 56 which may be removable, pivotal, rotatable, or otherwise positionable with respect to one another such that the interior portions of these sections (e.g., first interior portion 92 of first section 54 and second interior portion 94 of second section 56) are made accessible by the bifurcation such that the interiors 92, 94 may be easily cleaned out by removing any obstruction and thereby restoring operation to the system.

[0096] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate additional alternate embodiments 10D and 10E, respectively, wherein Fig. 12 illustrates an alternate housing 20B which is adapted to be manufactured from a single, flexible sidewall 26B, therbeby creating a slightly larger and irregular area 29. Fig. 13 illustrates an embodiment 10E whereby the discharge chute 50 has been replaced with a flexible chute 51 attached to a discharge chute 54B such that the system may be used, for example, as a blower. Of course, chute 51 could also be adapted to mount directly to the outlet 40, or alternatively to a first or second portion 52 and 54, respectively, of discharge chute 50.

[0097] Figures 14-19 illustrate various alternate embodiments of the various rotors, blades, impellers, and fans that may be utilized for suctioning and blowing (e.g., imparting motion), and processing (e.g., reducing, chipping, shredding, and mulching) the waste material.

[0098] As illustrated by Fig. 14, one embodiment of the rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 14A is illustrated and comprises a rotor assembly 162 including a first rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 162A and a second rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 162B disposed axially (via an axel 16) within housing 20. For exemplary purposes only, the illustrated rotor 162A is primarily used for imparting flow to the material stream, while rotor 162B is primarily for further processing (e.g., reduction; chipping) of the material stream.

[0099] As illustrated by Fig. 15, an alternate embodiment of the rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 14B is illustrated and comprises a rotor assembly 163 including a first rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 162A including teeth, notches or other features 167A, a second rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 162B including teeth, notches or other features 167B, and a third rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 162C including teeth, notches or other features 167C. For exemplary purposes only, illustrated blade set 162C may comprise a blade configured to impart both flow to the material stream as well as for further processing of the material stream.

[00100] Figures 16-17 illustrates an embodiment of the rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan 14C wherein one or more of the rotors 164 include replaceable arms for servicing and replacement. For example, rotor set 162A may comprise a backing rotor 165 to which may be replaceably mounted a replaceable rotor blade 166. In the example illustrated, replaceable blade 166 includes teeth 167D, and apertures 168 for attaching (e.g., via fasteners not shown) blade 166 to blade 165.

[00101] Figure 18 illustrates an embodiment of the rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan

162C and in one embodiment includes blades 170C having teeth, notches or other features 167C. In one embodiment the rotor 162C is formed by bending along areas or bends 172C to form the angled blade ends.

[00102] Figure 19 illustrates an embodiment of the rotor, impeller, suction device, or fan

162B and in one embodiment includes blades 170B having teeth, notches or other features 167B. In one embodiment the rotor 162B is formed by bending along areas or bends 172 to form the angled blade ends. [00103] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment of the housing sidewall 26A which may be formed from a single unitary piece of material (e.g., steel) by bending along areas or bends, for example only, 171 and therefore the housing 20 may be adapted for roll forming.

[00104] Fig. 21 illustrates a prior art drum style wood chipper 210', and Fig. 22 illustrates an embodiment of a waste and brush collection and processing system 220 which is adapted for use with a waste processing system comprising a hand fed chipper 210. The system 220 includes a rotor or impeller system 214 adapted for rotation either by its own, separate power source, or via an operable connection to the waste processing systems power source (e.g., via one or more pulleys and belts, or hydraulics) and is disposed within a housing 220 which is adapted for mounting to system 210 and further includes an inlet chute 230 and an outlet chute 240. In this particular embodiment, the outlet chute 240 is connected to the discharge chute (50) of the chipper. Of course, mounting the system 220 on the opposite side of the chipper (e.g., pulley/belt side) is also contemplated and in such an embodiment, could be powered via the same belt/pulley system as is used to power to drum or disk.

[00105] Figs. 23A and 23B illustrate an embodiment of a waste and brush collection and processing system 221 which is adapted for use with a waste processing system comprising a stump grinder 211. The system 221 includes a rotor or impeller system 215 (not shown) disposed within a housing 221 and includes an inlet chute 231 and an outlet chute 241. Rotor or impeller system 215 may be adapted to rotate via a separate power source, or via an operable connection to the stump grinders power source (e.g., via one or more pulleys, belts, or hydraulics) wherein the housing 221 is adapted for mounting to system 211.

[00106] Advantageously, the waste and brush collection and processing systems of the present invention results in a waste processing system that is superior to prior art systems and, inter alia, offers the following advantages: a less restrictive discharge system; a more powerful discharge system; a straight discharge chute; discharge systems having a reduced tendency to clog; a bottom discharge system; a system which is readily serviceable and maintainable; a discharge system which is readily serviceable and readily cleared; a trailerable system; a system which includes the ability to rotate and pivot without movement of the trailer; a system which includes the ability to position the discharge stream as desired and to facilitate an even loading of trailers and truck beds, as well as otherwise effectuate desired loading characteristics.

The solutions offered by the invention disclosed herein have thus been attained in an economical, practical, and simple manner. To wit, a novel waste and brush collection and processing system which increases utility, efficiency, reliability, and material flow has been obtained. While preferred embodiments and example configurations of the inventions have been herein illustrated, shown, and described, it is to be appreciated that various changes, rearrangements, and modifications may be made therein, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. It is intended that the specific embodiments and configurations disclosed herein are illustrative of the preferred and best modes for practicing the invention, and should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims, and it is to be appreciated that various changes, rearrangements, and modifications may be made therein, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.