HK1259400B - Powered hand-held spreader - Google Patents

Description

Powered Handheld Spreader

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/207,608, entitled “Powered Hand-Held Spreader,” filed on August 20, 2015. The disclosure of this priority application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The systems and methods described herein relate to a handheld spreader device that is used, for example, in consumer, professional, or industrial markets to distribute a granular product over a terrain or other surface, and more particularly, the description herein relates to a battery-powered handheld spreader device for distributing a granular product over a terrain or other surface.

Background Art

Consumers use spreaders to distribute granular products. Spreaders include larger wheeled spreaders and smaller handheld spreaders. Both types of spreaders are typically operated manually. These and other drawbacks exist.

Summary of the Invention

An exemplary embodiment includes a portable device suitable for spreading a granular product, the portable device having: a spreader body having a hopper, the hopper having an open upper portion and an interior volume configured to hold a quantity of granular product for spreading over a terrain or other surface, the hopper further including an outlet located in a bottom portion of the hopper; a handle integral with the spreader body; a motor disposed in a lower portion of the spreader body below the hopper; a gear train driven by the motor; a rotor plate for spreading the granular product, the rotor plate located at the outlet a trigger mounted in the handle, the trigger movable between a first position in which the motor is off and a second position in which the motor is actuated, the trigger being configured to default to the first position, the trigger being operably coupled to the trigger mechanism; a rotary dial coupled to a front portion of the spreader body below the handle, the rotary dial being rotatably movable between a plurality of settings; a shutter cam internally coupled to the rotary dial to adjust a distance of travel of a shutter plate positioned proximate the outlet based on a selected setting of the rotary dial; and a shutter plate coupled to the shutter cam and movable relative to the outlet, the shutter plate being movable such that when the trigger is in the first position, the shutter plate covers the outlet, and when the trigger is in the second position, the shutter plate is retracted from the outlet, thereby traveling a distance based on the selected setting of the rotary dial, by movement of the trigger mechanism.

Another exemplary embodiment includes a portable hand-held spreader device having: a hopper for holding a certain amount of granular product for spreading on a terrain or other surface, the hopper having an outlet for discharging the granular product; a handle device for holding the container; a spreading device for spreading the granular product, the spreading device being located below the holding device and driven by a power source; an agitator device for agitating the granular product, the agitator device being located within the container and near the outlet; a trigger mechanism for actuating the power source and moving a damper plate; and a control device for controlling the size of the opening of the outlet by controlling the travel distance of the damper plate, the damper plate having multiple settings, such that each setting adjusts the travel distance of the damper plate positioned near the outlet and connected to the control device.

Another exemplary embodiment includes a portable handheld spreader device having: a hopper configured to hold a granular product for spreading over a terrain or other surface, the hopper including an outlet; a handle suspended above the hopper; a motor; a gear train driven by the motor; a rotor plate for spreading the granular product, the rotor plate being located below the outlet and driven by the gear train; an agitator mounted in the hopper proximate the outlet and driven by the gear train; a trigger mounted in the handle; a trigger mechanism coupled to the trigger, the trigger mechanism including a first spring and a second spring and a stopper, wherein the first and second springs are compressed during operation of the trigger mechanism; and a gate plate The door cam is internally coupled to the rotary dial to adjust the distance a shutter plate travels based on the selected setting of the rotary dial, so that a stopper of the trigger mechanism is configured to contact the door cam; and a shutter plate coupled to the door cam and movable relative to the outlet, the shutter plate being movable so that when the trigger is in a first position, the shutter plate covers the outlet, and when the trigger is in a second position, the shutter plate is retracted from the outlet by movement of the trigger mechanism, thereby traveling a distance based on the selected setting of the rotary dial, so that when the stopper contacts the door cam, the shutter plate stops retracting.

These and other aspects of the exemplary embodiments will be apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of various exemplary embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 depicts a front perspective view of a powered handheld spreader apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

2 depicts a rear perspective view of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

3 depicts a front bottom perspective view of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

4 depicts a rear bottom perspective view of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

5A depicts a front view of a powered handheld spreader assembly with a shutter dial set to a maximum setting and a trigger depressed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

5B depicts a front view of the powered handheld spreader apparatus with the gate dial set to a minimum setting and the trigger depressed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG6A depicts a cross-sectional view taken along line 6A-6A of FIG5A according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG6B depicts a cross-sectional view taken along line 6B-6B of FIG5B according to an exemplary embodiment.

6C and 6D depict partial views of FIG. 6A according to an exemplary embodiment.

6E and 6F depict partial views of FIG. 6B according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7A depicts a cross-sectional view taken along line 7A-7A of FIG. 6A , according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG7B depicts a cross-sectional view taken along line 7B-7B of FIG6B according to an exemplary embodiment.

8A and 8B depict cross-sectional views of a lower portion of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

9A and 9B depict second cross-sectional views of a lower portion of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

10A and 10B depict third cross-sectional views of a lower portion of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

11A and 11B depict fourth cross-sectional views of a lower portion of a powered handheld spreader assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

12A depicts a cross-sectional view of a powered handheld spreader assembly in an "off" position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12B depicts a partial view of FIG. 12A , according to an exemplary embodiment.

13 depicts a second cross-sectional view of the powered handheld spreader assembly in an “off” position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

14A depicts a cross-sectional view of a powered handheld spreader assembly in an “on” position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14B depicts a partial view of FIG. 14A , according to an exemplary embodiment.

15 depicts a second cross-sectional view of the powered handheld spreader assembly in an “on” position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

16A and 16B depict the operation of the adjustable side deflector feature according to an exemplary embodiment.

17A and 17B depict cross-sectional views of a powered handheld spreader apparatus demonstrating operation of an adjustable side deflector feature, according to an exemplary embodiment.

18 depicts a flow chart of a method of operating a powered handheld spreader apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the embodiments described herein have broad utility and application. Therefore, while various embodiments are described in detail herein with respect to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrative and exemplary, and that the present disclosure is intended to provide an illustrative disclosure of the exemplary embodiments. The present disclosure is not intended to be construed as limiting the various embodiments or otherwise excluding any other such embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements.

The following description provides various configurations and features according to exemplary embodiments. These configurations and features relate to a powered, handheld spreader device for spreading granular material over terrain or other surfaces. While certain nomenclature and certain types of applications or hardware are described, other nomenclature and applications or hardware usage are possible, and the nomenclature provided is provided by way of non-limiting example only. Furthermore, while specific embodiments have been described, these specific embodiments are intended to be exemplary and non-limiting, and it should be further understood that the features and functionality of each embodiment may be combined in any combination, as would be within the capabilities of one of ordinary skill in the art.

An exemplary embodiment includes a handheld spreader device. The spreader device is powered. The spreader device has a handle that allows the user to grasp and hold the device with one hand. The handle can be suspended above the hopper. Thus, the spreader device is balanced for one-handed use. The handle can be ergonomically configured to reduce user fatigue when operating the spreader device. The hopper contains the granular product to be spread. The hopper is loaded by pouring the granular product from another container into the hopper. Power can be supplied by an electric motor, which can be powered by one or more replaceable batteries. The batteries can be rechargeable or disposable. A trigger actuates the motor to drive a self-rotating rotor plate that distributes the granular product. A trigger lock can be used to lock the trigger in the "on" position during use and prevent actuation when the trigger is in the "off" position. A gear train can be used to control the rotor plate speed. The spreader device can include an adjustable damper that allows for the distribution of a variety of granular products requiring different distribution flow rates and controls the amount of material dispensed from the spreader device. An adjustable gate controls the size of the opening at the hopper outlet. A rotary dial can be used to set the distance the adjustable gate travels to control the opening size. The rotary dial can have multiple settings. The granular product can be distributed over various types of terrain, including, but not limited to, lawns, gardens, and paths. Adjustable side deflectors can be used to control the distribution pattern of the granular material. The hopper can be configured to allow unused granular product to be returned to its original container. It should be understood that the foregoing description is of exemplary embodiments, and other embodiments with varying configurations are possible. For example, various embodiments may not have a trigger lock and/or adjustable side deflector plates.

As used throughout this specification, the term "granular product" refers to a product that is particulate (or granular) in nature because it is a flowable, dry (non-liquid) product. For example, granular products may include, but are not limited to, ice melting pellets, fertilizers, pesticides, granular soil conditioner materials, granular oil-absorbing materials, dust control products, granular floor cleaning products, grass seeds, or any other dry and flowable product, as well as combinations thereof.

Handheld spreaders according to various embodiments may include adjustable side deflectors to prevent granular product from being thrown onto sidewalks, driveways, or other areas where the product is not desired during dispensing, for example, as described in U.S. Patent 6,616,074, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The accompanying drawings depict various functions and features associated with the exemplary embodiments. Although a single illustrative block, subsystem, device, or component is shown, these illustrative blocks, subsystems, devices, or components can be multiplied for use in various applications or different application environments. In addition, the blocks, subsystems, devices, or components can be further combined into combined units or divided into subunits. Moreover, although a particular structure or type of block, subsystem, device, or component is shown, this structure is intended to be exemplary and non-limiting, as other structures can be substituted to perform the described functions.

FIG1 through FIG5A and FIG5B depict a powered handheld spreader device according to an exemplary embodiment. The spreader device can be a device configured to spread a granular product onto a lawn, terrain, or other surface. Externally, the spreader device 10 has a hopper 12, a handle 14, a trigger 16, a trigger lock 18, a grip portion 20, a gate dial 22, an opening 24, a rotor plate 26, adjustable side deflectors 28, a battery compartment 34, and legs 36. The spreader device 10 may have other external features as described herein.

Spreader device 10 has a hopper 12. Hopper 12 has an internal volume for holding a certain amount of granular product. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, the hopper volume may be 235 ⁱⁿ³ , and depending on the setting of the damper plate, this volume may be sufficient to hold enough granular product to cover a surface area of 2,500 square feet. Various embodiments may have different volumes to hold different amounts of product, which changes the surface coverage. It should be understood that the amount of granular material that can be accommodated in the hopper may vary depending on the specific granular material. For example, different granular materials have different particle sizes, so that the coverage produced by using a specific granular material may vary. In addition, it should be understood that different materials may require different settings on the spreading device (for the damper plate), which may affect the amount of surface coverage that can be obtained from the spreader device. Moreover, different settings on the spreading device may result in changes in the available surface coverage available for the spreader device.

Spreader device 10 has a handle 14. According to an exemplary embodiment, handle 14 can be positioned so that it overhangs hopper 12. In various embodiments, other handle configurations are possible. For example, handle 14 can be positioned so that it faces forward and does not overhang the hopper. A trigger 16 and a trigger lock 18 are located on handle 14. Trigger 16 is located on the lower portion of handle 14, and trigger lock 18 is located on the upper portion of handle 14. In various embodiments, trigger lock 18 may be optional. Handle 14 may have one or more rubber portions 20. Grip portions 20 may help maintain a secure grip on handle 14. Grip portions 20 may be located on the bottom and on each side of handle 14. In various embodiments, grip portions 20 may cover larger portions of handle 14, such as the top portion. According to an exemplary embodiment, grip portions 20 may be rubber. Other suitable materials may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the main body of spreader device 10 is constructed of a hard, durable plastic. Other suitable materials and combinations of materials may be used.

The spreader assembly 10 has a gate dial 22 located on the front portion. The gate dial 22 is used to set the opening size of a gate plate located at the bottom portion of the hopper 12. The gate dial 22 moves in a rotational manner. In various embodiments, the gate dial can move in a linear manner. For example, the gate dial can be a switch that moves in a linear direction, such as vertically (up and down), to change the setting. The gate dial 22 can have several settings. According to an exemplary embodiment, the gate dial can have 23 settings. In various embodiments, more or fewer settings are possible. An opening 24 is located on the front portion of the spreader assembly 10.

A rotor plate 26 is located within opening 24. Rotor plate 26 is used to spread the granular product. Rotor plate 26 is driven by the spreader device's motor to eject and spread the granular material during operation of spreader device 10. According to an exemplary embodiment, during operation, rotor plate 26 rotates in a clockwise direction (when viewed from above during use). In various embodiments, rotor plate 26 may rotate in the opposite direction. The accompanying drawings depict exemplary configurations of rotor plate 26. It will be appreciated that various embodiments may have different configurations. For example, the blade shape and configuration may be modified. In various embodiments, other structures may be used to spread the granular material. For example, the rotor plate may be replaced with a blower, or the rotor may be oriented horizontally (i.e., driven from the side and cylindrical).

The spreader assembly 10 may have adjustable side deflectors 28. The adjustable side deflectors 28 may be tabs, plates, walls, or other structures configured to rotate partially over the launch plate to partially cover the area where the granular product is spread from the launch plate.

The spreader assembly 10 may have a hanger 30 to allow the spreader assembly 10 to be hung or otherwise secured when not in use.

The spreader device 10 may include a label portion 32 for branding and/or labeling. The label portion 32 may be an in-mold label, such that it is formed as part of the spreader device 10. In various embodiments, the label portion 32 may comprise a press-on label or a sticker. It should be understood that the label portion 32 may have a variety of configurations to accommodate different branded labels. In some embodiments, the label portion 32 may contain instructions and/or warnings and/or safety information. In various embodiments, the label portion 32 may be located on opposite sides of the spreader.

A battery compartment 34 is located on the bottom portion of the spreader. The battery compartment 34 is accessible for battery replacement. The battery compartment 34 can be secured to prevent unintended opening. For example, the battery compartment 34 can be secured using screws or snap closures.

The spreader assembly 10 may have feet 36 located on a bottom portion thereof. The feet 36 may provide stability to the spreader assembly 10 when placed down on a surface. An exemplary embodiment may have four feet 36.

Holes 38 may be provided on the bottom portion to hang the spreader on nails or screws or other protrusions.

When the spreader device 10 is new, such as when initially sold, a tab 40 may extend from the battery compartment 34. The tab 40 may be a piece of material that covers one or more of the battery terminals prior to use by a consumer to prevent inadvertent operation of the spreader and/or to cover drain terminals on the battery. To operate the spreader device 10, the tab 40 is pulled and the material removed from the battery compartment.

Figures 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B depict cross-sectional views of spreader device 10. Figures 6C, 6D, 6E, and 6F depict partial views of Figures 6A and 6B, respectively. Agitator 42 is located at the bottom portion of hopper 12. Agitator 42 is coupled to agitator shaft 44. Agitator shaft 44 is driven by drive shaft 46. Rotor plate 26 is coupled to rotor shaft 48. The shaft is driven by and coupled to gear train 50. Gear train 50 is driven by motor 52. According to an exemplary embodiment, the gear ratio may be approximately 8:1. For example, the final gear ratio may be 8.4:1. Gear train 50 is configured so that when agitator 42 is driven by the gear train, agitator 42 rotates slower than rotor plate 26. In various embodiments, other gear and/or drive configurations are possible. For example, a direct drive incorporating one or more shafts extending directly from the motor to drive various structures may be used. The motor 52 is powered by one or more batteries 54 located in the battery compartment 34. An exemplary embodiment may use four AA batteries. The batteries 54 may be replaceable. Rechargeable batteries or disposable batteries may be used.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the motor 52 is a DC motor. For example, the motor can be a 6V DC motor type 280 with a no-load speed of 15,000 rpm. This is intended to be an exemplary and non-limiting example, as other motor types and sizes can be used. According to an exemplary embodiment, the motor 52 operates at a constant speed. In other words, the motor 52 is either on or off. For example, no matter how much the trigger 16 is pressed, the motor 52 operates at the same speed (after pressing, the trigger 16 engages the motor connector to turn the motor on). Various embodiments may employ variable speed operation adjusted by pressing the trigger 16.

The hopper 12 has a hopper opening 56 in its bottom front portion, which is located in front of the agitator 42. The hopper opening 56 is controlled by a shutter plate 58. For example, the travel distance of the shutter plate 58, as controlled by the shutter dial 22, determines the size of the exposed portion of the hopper opening 56.

In FIG6A , the shutter plate 58 is depicted in an open position. That is, the shutter plate 58 is retracted, exposing the hopper opening 56 to the rotor plate 26 , which is positioned below the hopper opening 56 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the shutter plate 58 is constructed of a soft plastic. For example, the shutter plate 58 may be constructed of polypropylene. Other suitable materials may also be used.

Operation of the shutter plate 58 is controlled by a trigger mechanism 60. The trigger mechanism has a frame that is subdivided into two sections by an internal structural member 69. The trigger mechanism is coupled to the trigger 16 and moves in response to movement of the trigger 16. In FIG6A , the trigger 16 is depicted in a depressed state. The trigger lock 18 is not engaged. The depressed state depicted represents an operating state in which the spreader is "on." Operation of the spreader is described further below. The trigger mechanism 60 is coupled to the shutter plate 58 so that movement of the trigger mechanism moves the shutter plate 58. When moving from the "closed" to the "open" position, the trigger mechanism 60 moves in an upward direction consistent with the movement of the trigger, retracting the shutter plate 58 from sealing or covering the hopper opening 56. The trigger mechanism 60 contains two springs mounted within its frame: an upper spring 62 located in the upper portion of the trigger mechanism frame (above the internal structural member 69) and a lower spring 64 located in the lower portion of the trigger mechanism frame (below the internal structural member 69). The stopper 66 is connected to the internal component 67. The internal component 67 is held against the internal structural member 69 by the second spring 64. The stopper 66 is configured to contact a cam 68 connected to the gate dial 22. Rotation of the gate dial 22 causes rotation of the cam 68. Changing the position of the cam 68 changes the time when the stopper 66 contacts the cam 68. Once the stopper 66 contacts the cam 68, the retraction of the gate plate 58 stops. In this way, the opening size of the hopper opening 56 through which the granular material can flow can be changed during operation of the spreader device 10. It should be understood that in various embodiments, the cam can be replaced with any other suitable structure. For example, the stopper can be directly connected to the gate dial so that the gate dial moves to various positions based on the dial setting.

The trigger mechanism 60 has a lower stop 70 configured to engage an electrical connector set 72. The electrical connector set 72 is connected to the motor 52 by electrical wires (not shown). When the trigger 16 is in the "off" position, the lower stop 70 disconnects the electrical contacts of the electrical connector set 72. When the trigger 16 is in the "on" position, as depicted in FIG6A , the lower stop 70 is removed from disconnecting the electrical connector set 72, thereby allowing electricity to flow for motor operation and, therefore, spreader operation, which involves rotating the agitator 42 and rotor plate 26 by rotating the gear train 50. The electrical connector set 72 has one or more springs that allow the connectors to engage after the lower stop 70 is removed.

Figures 6A and 7A depict the spreader device 10 with the gate dial 22 and cam setting at their maximum settings. That is, the gate plate 58 is retracted to its maximum distance when retracted, thereby providing the hopper opening 56 with its maximum opening size. As depicted in Figure 5A , according to an exemplary embodiment, the gate dial 22 is set to its maximum setting (9). The upper spring 62 is fully compressed, and the lower spring 64 is uncompressed or minimally compressed. The upper spring 62 is fully compressed because its upper portion is attached to an extension 63, which is fixed to the spreader body's exterior housing 65; that is, the extension 63 is not directly attached to the trigger mechanism 60, but rather to the spreader body's housing 65. This position represents the upper limit of travel for the trigger mechanism 60; upon depressing the trigger 16, the cam setting allows for maximum vertical movement of the stopper 66. The stopper 66 is connected to an inner member 67, which has the lower spring 64 mounted to its underside. The inner component 67 rests on the inner structural member 69 of the trigger mechanism, but is not connected to the inner structural member 69. The lower spring 64 provides a force to hold the inner component 67 against the inner structural member 69 and causes the inner component 67 to move upward when the trigger 16 is depressed.

The upper spring 62 is attached at its upper end to the housing 65 of the spreader body and at its lower end to the frame of the trigger mechanism 60. The lower end of the upper spring 62 is attached to the upper side of the internal structural member 69. Thus, the upper spring 62 compresses in response to upward movement of the trigger mechanism 60.

The lower spring 64 is attached at its upper end to the inner member 67 and at its lower end to the frame of the trigger mechanism 60. The inner member 67 is not attached to the trigger mechanism 60, but is held in place by the lower spring 64 against the inner structural member 69. A stopper 66 is attached to the inner member 67. Once the stopper 66 contacts the cam 68 during the upward movement of the trigger mechanism 60, the inner member 67 (which is connected to the stopper 66) stops moving upward and causes the lower spring 64 to compress as the trigger mechanism continues to move upward (because the inner member 67 is not coupled to the trigger mechanism). The lower spring 64 compresses independently of the upper spring 62. Figures 6C and 6E depict partial views of the trigger mechanism and surrounding structure.

Figures 6B and 7B depict the spreader assembly 10 with the gate dial 22 and cam set to their minimum settings. That is, the gate plate 58 is retracted to its minimum distance when retracted, thereby providing a minimum opening for the hopper opening 56. As depicted in Figure 5B , according to an exemplary embodiment, the gate dial 22 is set to its minimum setting (2). The upper spring 62 is fully compressed, and the lower spring 64 is also fully compressed. The hopper opening 56 is smaller than the hopper opening of Figure 6A because the gate plate 58 has been retracted to its minimum distance.

In this setting, stopper 66 contacts cam 68 at its lowest position. Contact with stopper 66 halts the retraction of flapper 58. When engaged with the cam, stopper 66 causes internal component 67 of trigger mechanism 60 to stop moving upward, compressing lower spring 64 while allowing trigger mechanism 60 to continue its upward movement. Internal component 67 is connected to stopper 66 so that when stopper 66 contacts cam 68, internal component 67 stops further movement, disengaging from internal structural member 69. Internal component 67 thus stops moving upward, thereby causing lower spring 64 to compress. It should be understood that cam settings between maximum and minimum values result in varying degrees of compression of lower spring 64 depending on the contact of stopper 66 with the cam. Trigger mechanism 60 continues its upward movement until it reaches its maximum travel point. As depicted in FIG6B , upper spring 62 is compressed to the same amount as in the operating state depicted in FIG6A . FIG6E and FIG6F depict partial views of the hopper opening area.

It should be understood that the trigger mechanism depicted is exemplary. In various embodiments, other configurations can be used. For example, the trigger mechanism can employ one spring or more than two springs. Other variations are possible.

8A , 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B depict various interior views of the lower portion of the spreader assembly 10 .

8A and 8B depict the lower portion 74 of the spreader device, which includes the battery compartment 34, the battery 54, and the gear train 50. The lower portion 74 is joined to the upper portion of the spreader device by a series of posts 76 (shown in FIG. 8A ) through which screws (not shown) are inserted to secure this lower portion.

Figures 9A and 9B depict a second view of lower portion 74. Motor 52 is mounted on gear train 50 (not shown). Gear train 50 is housed in the covered portion of the gear train as shown. Drive shaft 46 extends upward to drive the agitator. Agitator drive or transmission gear 80 is mounted to the upper portion of the drive shaft. Rotor shaft 48 is also depicted. Upper and lower covers 78 and 79 house the gear train. Gear train 50 may be enclosed to protect it from dust and other particulate matter.

10A and 10B depict a third view of the lower portion 74. The agitator drive gear 80 meshes with an agitator gear 82 connected to the agitator shaft 44. The rotor plate 26 is mounted to the rotor shaft 48.

11A and 11B depict a fourth view of the lower portion 74. The agitator 42 is mounted to the agitator shaft 44. The agitator 42 has a single arm or blade. The agitator 42 may have a curved blade that is optimized for use with various granular material types used with the spreader device. In various embodiments, the agitator 42 may have two arms or blades. Other agitator configurations are possible and may be optimized for use with various granular material types. In various embodiments, the agitator 42 may be varied to allow for use with different agitator types and configurations based on the type of granular material.

Agitator 42 rests on a gasket 84. Gasket 84 prevents moisture, dirt, and particulate matter from entering the gear train area of the lower portion. In the exemplary embodiment, a wool gasket is used. In various embodiments, other gasket types can be used. Gasket 84 can be located between the agitator and the floor of the hopper in which the agitator is mounted. A gasket can also be located below the floor of the hopper, above agitator gear 82.

Referring back to Figures 8A and 8B , gear train 50 will be described. The output shaft of motor 52 is coupled to motor pinion 86. Motor pinion 86 meshes with idler gear 88. Mounted to idler gear 88 is pinion 90, which drives intermediate gear 92. Intermediate gear 92 drives rotor plate pinion 94. Rotor plate pinion 94 has rotor shaft 48 mounted thereto. Intermediate gear 92, in turn, has drive shaft 46 mounted thereto, which is mounted to intermediate gear 92 (the base of which is depicted in Figures 8A and 8B ).

Figures 12 through 15 depict different operating states of a spreader device according to an exemplary embodiment. In Figures 12A and 12B, the trigger is closed, the trigger lock is closed, and the motor is off. In Figure 13, the trigger is closed, the trigger lock is open, and the motor is off. In Figure 14A, the trigger is open, the trigger lock is closed, and the motor is on. Finally, in Figure 15, the trigger is open, the trigger lock is open, and the motor is on.

12A and 12B , the trigger 16 is in the "off" or unpressed position. This is the default position of the trigger 16. The trigger lock 18 is also closed. The trigger lock 18 has a switch 96 and a latch 98. The latch 98 is configured to mate with a recessed lip 100 on the trigger 16. The trigger mechanism 60, as previously described, has an upper spring 62 and a lower spring 64. These springs provide tension for the operation of the trigger. The upper spring 62 returns the trigger mechanism to the off position. In the off position, both springs are unloaded.

In the closed position, lower stop 70 disconnects the electrical connector group by moving the contact portion downward and away from one of the connectors. Electrical connector group 72 may have two connectors: 72A and 72B. Each of the connectors is connected to motor 52 via a wire 102. Stop 70 moves wire spring portion 104 of connector 72A out of contact with connector 72B, thereby breaking the electrical circuit. Thus, in the illustrated position, motor 52 is off.

In the "off" position, the shutter plate 58 is closed, thereby sealing the hopper opening 56. Material in the hopper cannot exit the spreader assembly.

Referring to FIG13 , the trigger lock 18 is engaged. The trigger lock 18 can be used to prevent the spreader device from being actuated by holding the trigger 16 in the closed position. The trigger lock 18 is engaged by moving the switch 96 toward the rear of the handle. This movement causes the latch 98 to move to a position above the stop 106 of the trigger 16, as depicted. In this configuration, the trigger 16 cannot be pressed because the latch 98 prevents the trigger from moving upward by contacting the stop 106.

Referring to Figures 14A and 14B, trigger 16 is in the "open" or pressed position. Trigger lock 18 is also closed. Trigger mechanism 60 moves upward to its closed position. Upper spring 62 is compressed, as depicted in relation to the upward movement of the trigger mechanism. Lower spring 64 is not compressed in this position. Trigger mechanism stop 66 has contacted cam 68.

Lower stopper 70 has moved upward, allowing wire spring portion 104 of contact 72A to return to contact with contact 72B, thereby completing the circuit. Thus, in the position shown, motor 52 is on. Since motor 52 is on, the gear train is driven, and thus rotor plate 26 will spin like agitator 42.

The shutter plate 58 opens, thereby unsealing the hopper opening 56. Material in the hopper is able to exit the spreader device and fall onto the spinning rotor plate and is thereby ejected from the spreader device to be spread over the surface.

Referring to FIG15 , the trigger lock 18 is engaged. The trigger lock 18 can be engaged to hold the trigger 16 in the "open" position. The trigger lock 18 is engaged by moving the switch 96 toward the rear of the handle. This movement causes the latch 98 to move to a position below the lip of the recess 100. In this configuration, the trigger 16 remains in the open or depressed position because the latch 98 prevents the trigger from moving downward by contacting the lip 100.

In various embodiments, the trigger lock 18 can have different configurations. For example, the trigger lock 18 can be configured to engage in an "off" or "on" position. In various embodiments, the trigger lock 18 can automatically engage the trigger in the "on" position or when the trigger is fully depressed. A spring or other structure can be used to tension the trigger lock 18 to automatically engage the trigger. The trigger lock 18 can be optional.

As described above, the spreader assembly may include adjustable side deflectors 28 that can be optionally engaged to modify the spreading pattern. In various embodiments, the adjustable side deflectors 28 may be optional. In operation, the adjustable side deflectors 28 are manually moved from a stored position to an actuated position. The adjustable side deflectors 28 can prevent the spreadable or granular material from being spread on one side of the rotor plate by narrowing the spreading pattern. When desired, the adjustable side deflectors can be rotated back to their stowed positions. Figures 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B depict the operating states of the adjustable side deflectors 28. Figures 16A and 17A depict the adjustable side deflectors in the "closed" position. Figures 16B and 17B depict the adjustable side deflectors in the "open" position.

Adjustable side deflector 28 consists of tab 108 and ring 110. Tab 108 and ring 110 are connected so that movement of tab 108 moves ring 110. Ring 110 is mounted on a rotor plate center post 112, which allows it to be rotated from "closed" to "open." As can be seen in Figures 16B and 17B, movement of tab 108 causes opening 24 to narrow, which in turn narrows the dispersion pattern of granular material during operation of the spreader device. Material cannot be spread through adjustable side deflector 28. In addition, when adjustable side deflector 28 is open, ring 110 partially blocks hopper opening 56, which limits the output of granular material onto the rotor plate.

The spreader assembly may have labels 114 to indicate the status of the adjustable side deflectors 28. That is, the labels may have "off" and "on" labels with arrows corresponding to the positions of the tabs 108 as depicted, for example, in FIG16B . It should be understood that the labels 114 are exemplary and that other labels are possible.

A stop 116 is located at the inner end of the tab. The stop 116 cooperates with corresponding structure on the spreader body to provide a limit when the adjustable side deflector 28 is placed in the "off" position. The stop 116 has a protruding portion 118 that provides a limit when the adjustable side deflector 28 is moved to the "on" position. The protruding portion 118 strikes the inner wall of the spreader body, preventing further rotation of the adjustable side deflector 28. The ring 110 has a detent 120 that fits into a corresponding recess 122 in the spreader body to provide a limit to the "off" position and hold the adjustable side deflector 28 in the "off" position. When in the "on" position, the detent 120 fits into a second recess 124 to provide a limit to the "on" position and hold the adjustable side deflector 28 in the "on" position. The detent/recess structure provides feedback to the user when the adjustable side deflector 28 is in the proper position.

FIG18 depicts a flow chart of a method 1800 for operating a spreader device. This method is exemplary, as there are many ways to implement the present disclosure. Each block shown in the method represents one or more processes or decisions implemented in the exemplary method, and these processes or decisions do not necessarily need to be implemented in the specific order outlined in the method, nor do they necessarily require each one of them.

First, at 1802, the hopper is filled with spreadable material. Next, at 1804, a setting on the gate dial is selected. Also, at 1804, the adjustable side deflectors (if so equipped) can be engaged. At 1806, the trigger can then be pressed to begin operation of the spreader device when the user is ready. At 1808, spreader operation begins. Several events occur in the spreader device.

Depressing the trigger causes the damper to retract from the hopper opening. The distance the damper retracts corresponds to the setting on the damper dial. A damper cam, coupled to the damper dial, stops the trigger mechanism from moving upward, which in turn stops the damper plate from retracting. During the first phase of the trigger mechanism's upward movement, the upper spring is compressed until a stop on the trigger mechanism contacts the damper cam. When the trigger mechanism reaches its upper limit of travel, compression of the upper spring ceases, and the lower spring is compressed upon contact of the stop with the damper cam.

Upward movement of the trigger mechanism also allows contact between certain electrical connectors, thereby activating the motor. This activation of the motor causes the gear train to rotate. The motor is a constant-speed motor. The rotation of the gear train causes the agitator in the hopper to rotate and the rotor plate to pass over the connecting shaft. In operation, spreadable material can flow from the hopper at a rate permitted by the damper plate opening, be agitated by the agitator, pass through the hopper opening, and then strike the rotating rotor plate, causing the spreadable material to be ejected from the spreader device and spread over the desired terrain.

At 1810, once the desired spreading is complete, the trigger is released. At 1812, spreader operation ceases. Upon release, the trigger mechanism moves downward. A spring causes the trigger mechanism to return to its initial position. The trigger mechanism breaks electrical contact, causing the motor to cease operation, which in turn causes the gear train to cease movement. The agitator and rotor plate also cease movement. The downward movement of the trigger mechanism also causes the gate to move back over the hopper opening, sealing the hopper opening and thereby blocking the flow of spreadable material from the hopper.

At 1814, method 1800 may be repeated as needed by returning to 1802 to refill the hopper or fill it with a different material, by returning to 1804 to change the gate setting, and/or by returning to 1806 to press the trigger again. If no further action is required, method 1800 stops at 1816.

During operation, a trigger lock can optionally be engaged using a switch located at the top portion of the handle. The trigger lock secures the trigger in the "on" position, allowing the spreader to continue operating without applying any pressure to the trigger. The same switch can also be used to engage the trigger lock with the trigger in the "off" position. The trigger lock prevents movement of the trigger in this position, which prevents the spreader device from actuating. When the trigger lock is not engaged, the trigger can be freely actuated.

Therefore, the various embodiments should not be limited to the scope of the specific embodiments described herein. In addition, although some of the embodiments have been described herein in the context of specific embodiments for specific purposes under specific circumstances, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that their practicality is not limited thereto, and the various embodiments can be advantageously implemented in any number of environments for any number of purposes. Therefore, the appended claims should be interpreted in view of the full breadth and spirit of the embodiments as disclosed herein. Although the foregoing description contains many details and specific circumstances, it should be understood that the inclusion of these details and specific circumstances is for the purpose of explanation only, and these details and specific circumstances should not be construed as limitations on the various embodiments. Many modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this description.

Claims (25)

1. A portable device suitable for dispensing granular products, characterized in that the portable device comprises: The main body of the spreader includes: A hopper includes an open upper portion and an internal volume configured to receive a quantity of granular product for spreading on a surface, and further includes an outlet located at the bottom portion of the hopper. The handle is integrated with the front part of the main body of the spreader; The motor is located in the lower part of the main body of the spreader, below the hopper; A gear train, which is driven by the motor; An opening is located on the front portion of the main body of the spreader; A rotor plate for spreading the granular product, the rotor plate being located in the opening below the outlet and driven by the wheel system via a first shaft; An agitator is installed in the hopper, near the outlet, and is driven by the gear train via a second shaft; A trigger, mounted in the handle, is movable between a first position and a second position, in which the motor is off and in the second position the motor is actuated, the trigger being configured to default to the first position, and the trigger being operatively coupled to a trigger mechanism; A rotary dial is connected to the front portion of the spreader body below the handle, and the rotary dial is rotatably movable between multiple settings; A gate cam located within the main body of the spreader, connected to a rotary dial, adjusts the travel distance of the gate plate, located near the outlet, based on a selected setting of the rotary dial; and The stop plate, which is coupled to the stop cam and is movable relative to the outlet, is movable such that when the trigger is in the first position, the stop plate covers the outlet, and when the trigger is in the second position, the stop plate retracts and exposes the outlet, thereby traveling a distance by the movement of the trigger mechanism based on the selected setting of the rotary dial. 2. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the handle faces rearward above the hopper, such that the handle is suspended above the hopper. 3. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the granular product comprises ice-melting granules, fertilizers, pesticides, granular soil conditioner materials, granular oil-absorbing materials, dust removal products, granular floor cleaning products, grass seeds, or combinations thereof. 4. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the motor is powered by a power source comprising one or more batteries. 5. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the stirrer comprises a single blade. 6. The portable device according to claim 5, wherein the single blade is curved. 7. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of arrangements each result in a different position of the door panel. 8. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of settings include 23 different locations. 9. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the portable device further comprises: A trigger lock is configured to hold the trigger in the second position when engaged. 10. The portable device according to claim 9, wherein the trigger lock is further configured to prevent the trigger from moving from the first position. 11. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the trigger mechanism further comprises: A first spring, which is connected to the upper portion of the trigger mechanism; and The second spring is connected to the lower part of the trigger mechanism. 12. The portable device according to claim 11, wherein the portable device further comprises: A stopper is attached to the upper end of the second spring such that when the stopper contacts the stop cam in response to movement of the trigger mechanism, the second spring is compressed. 13. The portable device according to claim 1, wherein the trigger mechanism comprises: A frame, comprising a dividing frame member located at the center of the frame, the dividing frame member dividing the frame into an upper portion and a lower portion, the dividing frame member having an upper surface and a lower surface; A first spring is located in the upper portion; A second spring is located in the lower portion; The first spring is attached to the upper surface at its lower end and extends upward therefrom, and the upper end of the first spring is attached to a fixed extension portion of the portable device, which is separated from the frame, such that the first spring is compressed during the upward movement of the trigger mechanism; A stop member, located below the dividing frame member, includes a first portion that contacts but is not connected to the lower surface of the dividing frame member and is held in place by a second spring. The second spring is attached at its lower end to the lower portion of the frame and extends upward therefrom, such that its upper end is attached to the stop member. The stop member further includes a second portion configured to contact the stop cam when the trigger mechanism moves upward in response to the trigger moving from the first position to the second position, thereby causing the second spring to compress in response to the contact with the stop cam. 14. A portable handheld spreading machine device, characterized in that the portable handheld spreading machine device comprises: A hopper for holding a certain amount of granular product for spreading on a surface, the hopper including an outlet for discharging the granular product; A handle device for holding a container, the handle device being located on the front portion of the spreader device; An opening is located on the front portion of the spreading machine device; A spreading device for spreading the granular product, the spreading device being located in the opening below the handle and being powered by an electric power source; A stirring device for stirring the granular product, the stirring device being located inside the hopper and near the outlet; A control device for controlling the travel distance of a baffle plate located inside the outlet and mechanically connected to the control device, the control device being connected to the front portion of the spreader assembly and having multiple settings such that each setting adjusts the travel distance of the baffle plate relative to the outlet; A trigger mechanism for actuating the power supply and moving the gate plate by the distance according to the settings of the control device, the trigger mechanism further comprising: A first spring, which is connected to the upper portion of the trigger mechanism; and A second spring, which is connected to the lower portion of the trigger mechanism; and A stopper is attached to the upper end of the second spring such that when the stopper contacts the stop cam in response to movement of the trigger mechanism, the second spring is compressed. 15. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 14, characterized in that the trigger mechanism has a first default position and a second actuation position, in the first default position the power supply is not actuated and the baffle plate covers the outlet, and in the second actuation position the power supply is actuated and the baffle plate retracts from the outlet and travels the distance based on the setting of the control device. 16. The portable handheld spreader device according to claim 14, wherein the granular product includes ice-melting granules, fertilizers, pesticides, granular soil conditioner materials, granular oil-absorbing materials, dust removal products, granular floor cleaning products, grass seeds, or combinations thereof. 17. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 14, characterized in that the power supply comprises: An electric power transmission device for transmitting electricity from the power source to the spreading device. 18. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of settings include 23 different positions. 19. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 15, characterized in that the portable handheld spreading machine device further comprises: A locking device for securing the trigger mechanism in the second actuated position during engagement. 20. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 15, characterized in that the portable handheld spreading machine device further comprises: A locking device for securing the trigger mechanism in the first default position during engagement. 21. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 14, characterized in that the handle device faces rearward and is suspended above the hopper. 22. A portable handheld spreading machine device, characterized in that the portable handheld spreading machine device comprises: A hopper configured to contain granular product for spreading onto a surface, the hopper including an outlet; A handle, which is suspended above the hopper; motor; A gear train, which is driven by the motor; A rotor plate, located below the outlet and driven by the wheel system, is configured to distribute the granular product. An agitator driven by the wheel system is installed in the hopper, close to the outlet; A trigger, which is installed in the handle; A trigger mechanism connected to the trigger, the trigger mechanism including a first spring, a second spring, and a stop; A door panel, which is connected to the trigger mechanism, is used to cover and expose the outlet; A rotary dial that can be rotated between multiple settings; A gate cam located within the main body of the spreader, connected to the rotary dial, adjusts the travel distance of the gate plate by contacting the stopper based on a selected setting of the rotary dial; and The stop plate, coupled to the stop cam and movable relative to the outlet, is movable such that when the trigger is in a first position, the stop plate covers the outlet, and when the trigger is in a second position, the stop plate retracts from the outlet by movement of the trigger mechanism, thereby exposing the outlet by traveling a distance based on the selected setting of the rotary dial, such that the stop plate stops retracting when the stop contacts the stop cam, and the first spring is compressed during movement of the trigger mechanism, and the second spring is compressed once the stop contacts the stop cam. 23. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 22, characterized in that the portable handheld spreading machine device further comprises: A trigger lock is configured to hold the trigger in the second position when engaged. 24. The portable handheld applicator according to claim 23, wherein the trigger lock is further configured to prevent the trigger from moving from the first position when engaged. 25. The portable handheld spreading machine device according to claim 22, wherein the plurality of settings include 23 different positions.