Multiple flight elevator system

摘要

A multiple flight elevator system is disclosed for use in a mobile sweeper in combination with a pick-up broom and a debris receiving hopper. The elevator features the combination of mechanical elevating means which moves heavy articles or bulky masses of debris upwardly within the hopper while relying on a low volume blower for moving light articles and dust into the hopper providing a cleaner swept surface and minimizing the exhaust dust problem. Two embodiments are disclosed each including a plurality of independently driven flexible resilient paddle wheels in combination with a low volume blower for progressively raising the debris from the broom through an elevator housing and into the hopper. The lower end of the housing of the first embodiment is disposed close to the surface being cleaned and the housing is pivoted to the sweeper chassis in order to move over contacted abutments. The lower end of the housing of the second embodiment is spaced well above the road surface and the housing is rigidly secured to the chassis. A flexible resilient debris guide extends downwardly from the housing and is movable connected to the housing and to the broom support arms to pivot and deflect relative to the housing.