Abstract:
A system and process for controlling propulsion and steering of a track trencher excavation machine powered by an engine includes a multiple mode propulsion and steering control system that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A controller generates a vehicle propulsion hydrostatic drive signal optionally using a track drive hydraulic pressure or a track drive speed as a variable for modifying the propulsion drive signal. The controller optionally uses a hydraulic attachment drive pressure as a variable for further modifying the propulsion drive signal.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to a method for quarrying rock. The method includes a first phase in which at least two spaced-apart relief slots are provided in a layer of rock such that a rock piece is defined between the relief slots. The method also includes a second phase in which the rock piece is fractured from between the relief slots. The disclosure also relates to a multiple rock wheel device for concurrently cutting a plurality of slots into a rock formation.
Abstract:
The present disclosure provides a back reamer roller cone that is configured so that the bearings assemblies therein can be relatively easily removed and replaced. Methods of replacing the bearing assemblies in a back reamer are als provided.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to an air cleaning system for an off- road excavation apparatus. The off-road excavation apparatus includes an excavating component and a shroud assembly that at least partially covers the excavating component. The shroud assembly includes a first shroud component and a second shroud component. The first shroud component is moveable relative to the second shroud component to allow access to the excavating component. The air cleaning system draws air from inside the shroud assembly and includes an air cleaner, an air conduit and an air moving device that are all carried by the first shroud component as the first shroud component is moved relative to the second shroud component.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to a low height pivot arrangement for allowing an excavation tool of a surface excavation machine to be pivoted between an upper transport position and a lower excavating position. The low height pivot arrangement assists in reducing a moment arm of the excavation tool when the excavation tool is raised during non-excavating operations.
Abstract:
A drill rod assembly (100, 200, 400, 500) including inner (110, 210, 410, 510) and outer (120, 220, 420, 520) drill rods. The drill rod assembly further including flow passages (140, 240, 440, 540) that are in fluid communication with an annular fluid flow path (160, 260, 460, 560) defined between the inner and outer drill rods. The passages preventing blockage of a drill string fluid flow path when a number of drill rod assemblies are interconnected to form a drill string.
Abstract:
A system and method of mapping underground utilities and other subsurface objects involves one or more of acquiring utility location data using a number of different detectors and sensors, processing the multiple detector/sensor output data to produce mapping data, storing the mapping data in a database, and providing access to and use of the stored mapping data by subscribing users on a usage fee basis.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to a wood chipper (20) including a support frame (22), a housing (24) mounted on the support frame (22), a cutter member (26) for chipping wood within the housing, and a discharge chute (29) for discharging wood chips from the housing. The wood chipper (20) also includes at least one resilient isolator (138) for dampening vibration between the engine (122) and the support frame and a moveable drive sheave. Alternatively the wood chipper also includes a first resilient isolator for dampening vibration between the housing and the support frame (22). Alternatively the wood chipper also includes a noise abating curtain. Alternatively the wood chipper also includes a controllable feed means (50).
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to a drilling apparatus including a magazine for holding a plurality of pipes, and a drive head including a drive member adapted to be coupled to a pipe. The drive member is aligned along a drive axis. The drilling apparatus includes a first drive mechanism for rotating the drive member about the drive axis, and a second drive mechanism for moving the drive member axially along the drive axis. The drilling apparatus also includes a pipe transfer member for transferring pipes between the magazine and the drive head. The pipe transfer member defines a pipe receiving region for receiving a pipe. The pipe transfer member is movable between a first orientation in which the pipe receiving region is located adjacent to the magazine, and a second orientation in which the pipe receiving region is located adjacent to the drive axis of the drive head. The drilling apparatus further includes a magnet for magnetically attracting a pipe received at the pipe receiving region of the pipe transfer member at least when the pipe member is in the second orientation. The magnet is adapted to magnetically hold the pipe in coaxial alignment with the drive axis while the drive member of the drive head is being coupled to the pipe or uncoupled from the pipe.
Abstract:
A system for providing suspension to a cab of an excavation machine such as a trencher or a surface mining machine. The system includes air cushions and elastomeric dampeners positioned between a platform and the cab. The air cushions allow for a larger displacement than the elastomeric dampeners. The air cushions have a lower natural frequency than the elastomeric dampeners. The elastomeric dampeners stabilize and support the cab in various degrees of freedom that are not supported by the air cushions.