Abstract: A compaction wheel system and a method are provided. A support frame supports system components and can be coupled to a driver. At least first and second compaction wheels are each mounted in a separate axle assembly. The axle assemblies are each mounted to the support frame on linkage assemblies which vary the distance between the compaction wheels with angular displacement. Additionally, each linkage maintains its respective compaction wheel at an angle to continue compacting operations. An adjuster is provided to set the angular position of each linkage assembly.

Abstract: A system for laying a pipe in a trench includes subsystems and performs a method. Grading is done on pipe bed material in a trench by a remotely controlled earth mover included in a first subsystem. Pipe sections are joined to a pipe by remote control by an operator or operators outside of the trench using the second subsystem. A pipe section is lifted by a first gripper on a transport assembly and lowered into the trench in alignment with the pipe. A second gripper on the transport assembly grasps an end of the pipe, and the first gripper moves axially to insert the pipe section into the pipe. The earth mover has a material-pushing blade mounted to the pivot arms in a manner to enable a single hydraulic actuator for each pivot arm to determine height and tilt of the blade.