Snow melting and removal machine

Abstract

A snow melting and removal machine includes a cart carrier movable by hand, the cart carrier including a support frame, front and back wheels and a handle that a user holds to control the direction and speed of the cart carrier. A heating system is mounted upon the cart carrier. The heating system includes a torch assembly comprising torches, wherein the torch assembly is coupled to a gas tank feeding gas through a controller to the torch assembly, wherein flames emitted from the torches directly contact ice and snow thereby melting same. A distribution assembly is provided for treatment of melted snow and ice to prevent the accumulation of ice on the cleared surfaces.

1 . A snow melting and removal machine, consisting of:
 a cart carrier movable by hand, the cart carrier including a support frame, front and back wheels and a handle that a user holds to control the direction and speed of the cart carrier;   a heating system mounted upon the cart carrier, the heating system including a torch assembly comprising a plurality of torches, wherein the torch assembly is coupled to a gas tank feeding gas through a controller to the torch assembly, wherein flames emitted from the torches directly contact ice and snow thereby melting same;   a distribution assembly for treatment of melted snow and ice to prevent the accumulation of ice on the cleared surfaces, the distribution assembly includes a container shaped and dimensioned for storage of a large quantity of rock salt or other surface treatment material, the container including an outlet directly coupled to a dispensing member for selective dispensing of rock salt or other treatment materials, wherein the distribution assembly is positioned rearwardly of the torch assembly to spread a layer of salt or other treatment materials on previously melted areas to prevent ice build-up as a result of subsequent freezing.   
   
   
       2 . (canceled) 
   
   
       3 . The machine according to  claim 2 , wherein the torch assembly includes a duct covering the torches for directing the flames generated by the torches toward snow and/or ice in an efficient manner. 
   
   
       4 . The machine according to  claim 3 , wherein the duct includes a hatch. 
   
   
       5 . (canceled) 
   
   
       6 . The machine according to  claim 1 , wherein the controller includes a gas valve connected to a gauge. 
   
   
       7 . The machine according to  claim 1 , wherein the torch assembly includes 2 to 4 torches. 
   
   
       8 . The machine according to  claim 1 , wherein a mounting assembly supports the torches for pivotal movement. 
   
   
       9 . The machine according to  claim 1 , wherein the duct has an elongated funnel-like shape having a wide opened end and a narrow back end that connects to the cart carrier. 
   
   
       10 . The machine according to  claim 1 , wherein the torches are positioned approximately 3 inches apart.