Tine Replacement Device for a Muck Rake

This application claims benefit from currently pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/574,409 titled “Tine Replacement Device for a Muck Rake” and having a filing date of Apr. 4, 2024, all of which is incorporated by reference herein.

The present invention pertains generally to the field of agriculture tools, and more specifically to a device designed for the repair of muck rakes with broken tines.

The term “muck rake” refers to a tool used for raking or gathering up debris, manure, or other undesirable substances, often found in agricultural or stable settings. Rakes have been used for centuries across different cultures for agricultural purposes. Muck rakes typically have sturdy tines and a broad head that are effective at gathering and moving muck, manure and other debris. Muck rakes have been a stable tool on the farm and in stable for cleaning animal enclosures, such as barns, stables, and coops, as well as managing compost piles and spreading manure as fertilizer on fields.

Early iterations of the muck rake were rudimentary, typically consisting of wooden handles affixed to metal prongs or tines. These implements were primarily used for gathering and removing animal waste, agricultural debris, and other undesirable materials from barns, stables, and fields. The design and functionality of these early muck rakes were rudimentary but effective, reflecting the agricultural practices and technological capabilities of their time. As agricultural practices progressed and industrialization took hold, muck rakes underwent refinements and improvements to meet the evolving needs of farmers, stable owners, and agricultural workers. Advancements in materials, such as the introduction of durable metals and synthetic polymers, led to the development of more robust and long-lasting muck rake designs.

However, muck rakes are still prone to wear and tear due to their frequent interaction with rough materials and surfaces. Over time, the tines of these rakes can break or become damaged, rendering the tool less effective or even unusable. Traditional methods of repairing these tools often involve replacing the entire rake, which can be costly and wasteful.

Therefore, there is a need for a device that allows the user to add tines onto a muck rake making it usable again without the costly replacement of the entire rake.

The present invention provides a tine replacement device for a muck rake with one or more broken tines. The device comprises at least one tine extending from a body, wherein the body includes at least one slot and at least one support prong. The device also includes at least one rake connection coupled to the support prong, and a first and second tine hole coupled to the body. The first tine hole is coupled to a first tine of the muck rake and the second tine hole is coupled to a second tine of the muck rake.

The tine has a substantially elongated body portion having a proximal end and a distal end. The tine can be integral to the body. The support prong extends from the body and engages a rake head. The support prong can comprise a rake connection hole wherein the rake connection can be removably coupled to the rake connection hole and the rake. The body, the tine, and the support prong can be formed from a durable and resilient material, such as metal, plastic, or composite material. The rake connection can be coupled to the rake head. The rake connection can be a zip tie, clamp, cable tie or hook and look ties.

The first tine hole and second tine hole can be positioned at an angle relative to each other to accommodate varying tine spacings on different muck rake models. The body further can further comprise a reinforcement rib extending between the first tine hole and the second tine hole to distribute force during use. The material can be specifically formulated to resist corrosion from animal waste and cleaning chemicals. The at least one tine can comprise a textured surface to enhance debris collection and retention. The body can comprise an adjustment mechanism allowing for variable positioning of the at least one tine relative to the muck rake head. The at least one tine can have a cross-sectional profile that transitions from a first shape at the proximal end to a second shape at the distal end to optimize both strength and debris collection. The body can further comprise at least one visual alignment guide to facilitate proper installation orientation relative to the muck rake head.

Furthermore, it is an objective and advantage of the present invention to provide a method of replacing damaged or worn tines on a muck rake. This method involves removing the damaged tines, sliding the tine replacement device over the remaining tines, and securing the device in place. This process is designed to be simple and straightforward, allowing even those with limited technical skills to perform the replacement. Finally, it is an objective and advantage of the present invention to provide a tine replacement device that can be periodically inspected and maintained to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the muck rake assembly. This promotes the sustainable use of the tool, further contributing to cost savings and environmental conservation. The tine replacement device for a muck rake provides a simple and effective solution for replacing broken tines on a muck rake, enhancing its durability and functionality.

It is an object of the invention to replace the broken tines of a muck rake without replacing the whole rake.

Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description of the invention. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts. The inventors are fully aware that they can be their own lexicographers if desired. The inventors expressly elect, as their own lexicographers, to use only the plain and ordinary meaning of terms in the specification and claims unless they clearly state otherwise and then further, expressly set forth the “special” definition of that term and explain how it differs from the plain and ordinary meaning. Absent such clear statements of intent to apply a “special” definition, it is the inventors' intent and desire that the simple, plain and ordinary meaning to the terms be applied to the interpretation of the specification and claims. Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description of the invention.

The inventors are also aware of the normal precepts of English grammar. Thus, if a noun, term, or phrase is intended to be further characterized, specified, or narrowed in some way, then such noun, term, or phrase will expressly include additional adjectives, descriptive terms, or other modifiers in accordance with the normal precepts of English grammar. Absent the use of such adjectives, descriptive terms, or modifiers, it is the intent that such nouns, terms, or phrases be given their plain, and ordinary English meaning to those skilled in the applicable arts as set forth above.

Further, the inventors are fully informed of the standards and application of the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Thus, the use of the words “function,” “means” or “step” in the Detailed Description or Description of the Drawings or claims is not intended to somehow indicate a desire to invoke the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), to define the invention. To the contrary, if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are sought to be invoked to define the inventions, the claims will specifically and expressly state the exact phrases “means for” or “step for, and will also recite the word “function” (i.e., will state “means for performing the function of . . . ”), without also reciting in such phrases any structure, material or act in support of the function. Thus, even when the claims recite a “means for performing the function of . . . ” or “step for performing the function of . . . ” if the claims also recite any structure, material or acts in support of that means or step, or that perform the recited function, then it is the clear intention of the inventors not to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Moreover, even if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are invoked to define the claimed inventions, it is intended that the inventions not be limited only to the specific structure, material or acts that are described in the preferred embodiments, but in addition, include any and all structures, materials or acts that perform the claimed function as described in alternative embodiments or forms of the invention, or that are well known present or later-developed, equivalent structures, material or acts for performing the claimed function.

Elements and acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence or embodiment.

In the following description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the invention. It will be understood, however, by those skilled in the relevant arts, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, known structures and devices are shown or discussed more generally to avoid obscuring the invention. In many cases, a description of the operation is sufficient to enable one to implement the various forms of the invention, particularly when the operation is to be implemented in software. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative configurations, devices, and technologies to which the disclosed inventions may be applied. The full scope of the inventions is not limited to the examples that are described below.

Referring toa tine replacement device for a muck rake with one or more broken tines is shown generally at. The tine replacement device for a muck rakecan comprise at least one tineextending from a body. The at least one tinecan have a substantially elongated body having a proximal endand a distal endwherein the distal end can come to a such as, for example, blunt end, pointed end, rounded end, chiseled end, tapered end, or the like. The at least one tinecan be such as for example, one tine, two tines, three tines, four tines, five tines, or the like each evenly or unevenly spaced between each other. The at least one tinecan have a thickness substantially the same or similar as the muck rake tines. The at least one tinecan substantially narrow in thickness from the proximal endto the distal end. The tine replacement devicecan fit or change size and shape to fit various manufacturer's muck rake designs.

In certain embodiments, the bodycan include a variable-pitch mounting systemcapable of adjusting the tine angulation relative to the rake handle within a range of 10 to 45 degrees to optimize collection efficiency across different substrate densities. Each tinecan have a composite construction featuring a flexible elastomeric coreencased within a rigid outer shell, allowing for enhanced debris release through controlled flexion while maintaining structural integrity during operation. The proximal endof each tinecan include an integrated wear indicatorcomprising a visually distinct material that becomes exposed when the tine reaches a predetermined wear threshold, thereby signaling replacement necessity without requiring manual measurement. The bodycan comprise a modular connection interfacecompatible with multiple rake handle configurations, eliminating the need for specialized adapters when transferring the replacement device between different rake models.

In embodiments, the bodycan be integral to the at least one tineor the at least one tine can be coupled to the body by such as, for example, fastener, rivet, adhesive, screw, or the like allowing the user to replace the tines if broken. The bodycan have at least one support prongextending from the opposite of the body as the at least one tine. The at least one support prongcan have the substantially the same thickness, a larger or a smaller thickness as the body. The at least one support prongcan be integral to the body and can have a thickness and a support endwherein the support end can engage a muck rake head which can support the tine replacement deviceagainst the muck rake head. In other embodiments, the support prongand at least one tinecan be any suitable shape and size as shown inand. The support prongcan have angle portion at the top portion or bottom portion depending on the muck rake it is being attached to. The at least one tinecan match the tines of the muck rake it is being attached to as shown inand.

In certain embodiments, the at least one support prongcan incorporate a self-aligning orientation mechanismcomprising magnetic elements calibrated to automatically position the tine replacement devicein optimal alignment with the muck rake head upon installation. The bodycan feature a progressive load distribution networkcomprising a series of variably-sized internal chambersthat redistribute impact forces encountered during operation, substantially reducing stress concentration at connection points between the bodyand the muck rake head. Additionally, the bodycan include an integrated debris-shedding surface treatment consisting of microscopic hydrophobic patterns that actively repel adherent organic matter during use, thereby maintaining consistent weight and performance characteristics throughout operation. The support prongcan further include an adjustable engagement depth limiterthat allows the user to customize the insertion profile according to specific muck rake head geometries, ensuring maximum stability across various manufacturer designs without requiring specialized tools or modifications.

In embodiments, the support endcan have a rake connection holewherein a rake connection can be removably coupled to the rake connection hole. The rake connection can be such as for example, zip ties, cable ties, clamps, nylon straps, hook and look fastener, cables, or the like. The rake connection holecan be such as, for example, round holes, square hole, rectangular hole, or the like. The rake connection holecan be on every at least one support prong. The rack connection can couple the tine replacement deviceto the rake head ensuring secure engagement and retention of the replacement tines during use. The tine replacement devicecan be secured to the muck rake by such as, for example, zip tie, reusable cable tie, hook and loop fasteners, wire twists, spring clamps, magnetic fasteners, or the like through the rake connection hole.

In certain embodiments, the rake connection holecan have a self-sealing elastomeric grommetthat dynamically adjusts to the cross-sectional profile of various connection means, thereby preventing elongation of the hole during extended operational periods. The rake connection holecan feature an integrated stress-distribution collarsurrounding the hole perimeter that redistributes tensile forces across a wider surface area of the support prong, reducing the likelihood of structural failure at high-stress points. The support endcan additionally include a series of graduated retention ridges arranged concentrically around the rake connection hole, providing incremental resistance against rotational movement of the tine replacement deviceduring lateral raking motions. The support prongcan further incorporate a visual installation alignment guidecomprising directional indicators that become symmetrically aligned only when the tine replacement deviceis properly positioned relative to the rake head, providing immediate visual confirmation of correct installation prior to securing the rake connection.

In certain embodiments, the rake connection holecan incorporate a self-sealing elastomeric grommetthat dynamically adjusts to the cross-sectional profile of various connection means, thereby preventing elongation of the hole during extended operational periods. The rake connection holecan have an integrated collarthat distributes the stress to the surrounding hole perimeter which can distribute the tensile stress across a wider surface area of the support prong, reducing the likelihood of structural failure at high-stress points. The support endcan include a series of graduated retention ridgesarranged concentrically around the rake connection hole, providing incremental resistance against rotational movement of the tine replacement deviceduring lateral raking motions. The support prongcan further incorporate a visual installation alignment guidecomprising directional indicators that become symmetrically aligned only when the tine replacement deviceis properly positioned relative to the rake head, providing immediate visual confirmation of correct installation prior to securing the rake connection.

The at least one support prongcan be such as, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six, or the like and spaced evenly or unevenly opposite the at least one tine. For example, as shown inshows one tine and two support prongswherein this a tine replacement devicecan replace one tine on the muck rake whereasshow two tines and three support prongs replacing two tines on the muck rake. In embodiments the tine replacement devicecan replace such as, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six or the like sines on a muck rake. Turning back toat least one slotcan be formed between the at least one support prong. The at least one slotcan be any size or shape to fit any type of muck rake.

In certain embodiments, the spacing between multiple support prongscan have a progressive engagement system wherein alternating prongs contact the muck rake head at different points during installation, creating a sequential locking effect that increases retention stability under variable load conditions. The at least one support prongcan feature differential rigidity zones wherein the material composition transitions from relatively rigid at the connection with bodyto semi-flexible at the support end, allowing for optimized force distribution while maintaining positional integrity during use. The tine replacement devicecan include an integrated tine configuration identifier comprising tactile indicators on the bodythat allow users to identify the specific tine replacement configuration by touch alone, enabling correct installation orientation in low-visibility environments.

In embodiments, the bodycan further comprise at least one tine hole wherein inshows a first tine holeand second tine holecoupled to or integrated with the body. The first tine holecan be coupled to a first tine of the muck rake and the second tine holecan be coupled to a second tine of the muck rake. In other embodiments, the at least one tine hole can be such as, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six or the like. The tine holes,can be the substantially the same shape as the rake tine allowing for a loose fit, press fit, or interference fit of the tine holes and the muck rake tines.

In certain embodiments, the tine holes,can comprise a multi-phase engagement system featuring graduated inner diameters that progressively constrict upon installation, transitioning from an initially generous clearance to a precision-fit final position without requiring additional fastening components. The inner surface of each tine hole,can include a series of micro-channeled retention ridges arranged in a helical pattern, creating directional resistance that facilitates easy installation while significantly increasing removal force, thereby preventing unintended detachment during operation. The bodycan further comprise an integrated tine position indexing system wherein each tine hole,incorporates position-specific material density variations that correspond to optimal placement locations on the muck rake head, providing tactile feedback during installation when proper alignment is achieved.

In embodiments, the body, the tines, and the support prongcan be formed from a durable and resilient material, such as, for example, metal, plastic, ceramic, composite material, or the like. The material can be optimized for specific operational environments, with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) providing superior performance in wet conditions, aircraft-grade aluminum alloys offering enhanced strength-to-weight ratios for extended use, and glass-reinforced nylon compounds delivering exceptional impact resistance during heavy-duty applications. The material composition can further incorporate UV-stabilizing additives to prevent degradation during prolonged outdoor exposure, while strategic reinforcement zones at high-stress junction points can significantly extend operational lifespan. The tine replacement devicecan provide a simple and effective solution for replacing broken tines on a muck rake, enhancing its durability and longevity while eliminating the need for complete rake replacement. This modular approach supports sustainable maintenance practices by reducing material waste and extending the functional lifespan of existing equipment, thereby offering both economic and environmental advantages over conventional rake replacement methods.

In closing, it is to be understood that although aspects of the present specification are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these disclosed embodiments are only illustrative of the principles of the subject matter disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosed subject matter is in no way limited to a particular methodology, protocol, and/or reagent, etc., described herein. As such, various modifications or changes to or alternative configurations of the disclosed subject matter can be made in accordance with the teachings herein without departing from the spirit of the present specification. Lastly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined solely by the claims. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those precisely as shown and described.

Certain embodiments are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the methods and devices described herein. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.