Including Material Supply Patents (Class 404/108)
  • Patent number: 8376654
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted patching system for patching potholes and the like and incorporating method and apparatus for removing and flushing asphalt emulsion from the feed lines of the patcher which completely recycles the cleaning agent used to flush the feed lines, as well as eliminating any external discharge of potentially toxic materials. A cleaning agent is used to flush the feed lines. The emulsion is collected in a recovery tank and combined with fresh emulsion delivered from a storage tank when the collected emulsion reaches a given concentration. Electrical controls for operating both motors from a single power source employ arrays of cam-operated switches and a diode array polarized to prevent feedback of power from the power source to assure precision positioning of the multi-position valves to perform a given operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Patch Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott P. Kleiger
  • Publication number: 20130017017
    Abstract: An aggregate-spreading device is disclosed for widening roads, filling trenches, spreading any kind of road construction material, and creating shoulders on the side of roads at a controllable, quick, and steady pace. The aggregate-spreading device may be controlled by electronic motors and electronic actuators. The aggregate-spreading device is equipped with a skeletal frame, either a first and a second adjustable spreader assembly attached on opposing ends of the skeletal frame, or a single spreader assembly for allowing an operator precise control over placement of an aggregate. The aggregate may be supplied to the first or second adjustable spreader assemblies by adjusting the rotation of a reversible conveyor system. The skeletal frame simplifies manufacturing of the aggregate-spreading device and allows for easy repairs and maintenance. The electronic motors and electronic actuators eliminate the need for hydraulics, allowing an operator to control the device from a remote location with a controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Duane A. Neumann
  • Patent number: 8308394
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods implemented in a pothole patching system for creating a vacuum that pulls heavy particulate, such as gravel, out of a hopper. For example, according to an embodiment, a vacuum body having a vacuum chamber formed therein is positioned proximate to an opening of the hopper. A moveable slide gate is provided between the vacuum chamber and the opening of the hopper. The slide gate moves between open and closed positions for permitting and blocking communication between the vacuum chamber and the hopper. A reduction nozzle is provided between an air source and the vacuum chamber. Forced air flows from the air source, through the reduction nozzle, and into the vacuum chamber. The reduction nozzle reduces the pressure of the forced air entering the vacuum chamber, and thereby creates a vacuum in the vacuum chamber. When the slide gate is in the open position, this vacuum pulls particulate from the hopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: VT LeeBoy, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph E. Whitley
  • Patent number: 8282312
    Abstract: A method of operating machine system includes receiving expected material placement data for a paving machine and comparing the expected material placement data with actual material placement data. The method further includes outputting a signal based on the comparison, and commanding replenishing material from a supply machine to the second supply volume responsive to the signal. A paving control system for a paving system includes a computer readable memory configured to store expected material placement data, a receiver configured to receive actual material placement data and a data processor configured to output a control signal to a supply machine to controllably replenish material to an external material supply volume for the paving system in a manner responsive to comparing the expected material placement data with the actual material replacement data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Katherine C. Braddy, Dean R. Potts, Robert J. Price
  • Publication number: 20120253612
    Abstract: A mobile pothole patching vehicle includes a chassis and front and rear support wheels for the chassis. A cab is mounted on the chassis as is a paving material storage hopper. A paving material dispensing mechanism is mounted on the chassis and is in communication with the hopper. A discharge chute is in communication with the dispensing mechanism. A boom mechanism includes a proximal end mounted on the chassis. A first swivel mechanism rotates the boom mechanism in relation to the chassis. A tamper plate is mounted on a distal end of the boom mechanism. The machine can patch potholes through the actions of a single operator who remains in the cab during the patching or repair process, thus enhancing the safety of the patching operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Terrence K. Byrne
  • Patent number: 8167513
    Abstract: A pothole patching machine includes a container for storage of patch material, and a auger screw conveyor for conveying the patch material from the container to a ram. The ram is adapted to forcibly urge the patch material into a pothole. The ram is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position which completes one fill stroke. The ram also includes a foot plate dimensioned for positioning over the pothole and sensors for sensing when the pothole has been filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Bill Ryan
  • Publication number: 20120076582
    Abstract: The outer link panel of one or more links carrying the scraper bars of a scraper-chain conveyor is replaced with a link panel having a projection extending from the chain to the guide channel wall. These projections then travel with the chain and clear the space between the chain and guide channel wall of spilled loose material lodged therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Steve Jeffers, David W. Nolan
  • Publication number: 20120063848
    Abstract: The invention relates to a self-propelled paving machine for floor coverings respectively cover layers, particularly for synthetic floor coverings respectively resilient base layers, for synthetic coverings for sports surfaces, such as jogging tracks, small playing fields, runways for long jump installations, playgrounds, screed, particularly synthetic resin screed or the like, wherein the material is distributed uniformly over a fill-in width on a prepared under-floor, and pulled off or flattened there by at least one flattening plank, wherein a storage container is provided which is connected with a fill-up area of the paving machine, and the paving machine presents a carriage, and wherein the fill-up area is provided between a rear closing-off of the carriage, viewed in the travel direction, and the flattening plank, wherein a direct delivery of the material from the storage container into the fill-up area is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: SMG Sportplatzmachinebau BmbH
    Inventor: Johann Owegeser
  • Patent number: 8113736
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention relates to a flexible sled that conforms to the contour of the pavement for applying a liquid emulsion onto a pavement surface comprising a rigid frame with flexible squeegee assembly adapted to be towed along a pavement surface. Another embodiment of the invention includes a hopper assembly for distributing aggregate. Another embodiment of the invention includes a sled for repairing ruts in wheel lanes of a road. Another aspect of the invention is a polymer emulsion composition having a high coefficient of friction comprising a mixture of polymer resin blended with a mixture of cement and angular sand aggregate and titanium dioxide to provide a solar reflectance index number that ranges from 0.30 to 0.38 and a friction number in the range of 45 to 55.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Jack H. Wilson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8092117
    Abstract: A hopper insert is provided for a road paver. The hopper insert includes a funnel-shaped base body formed by four side walls. The upper side of the base body is open and at least three of the side walls extend inwardly therefrom to a bottom opening. One of the side walls includes a side outlet which is open to the bottom opening. The base body or the side outlet is adjustable in a width direction extending along the side wall containing the side outlet. The hopper insert is removably disposed in an integrated hopper of a road paver. The integrated hopper includes a rear wall with a gate that is adjacent the side wall of the hopper insert containing the side outlet. The side outlet is adjustable in the width direction to correspond to the width of the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventors: Michael Hill, Scott Weese
  • Patent number: 8025459
    Abstract: The present invention describes a road finisher for laying a paving material, comprising a material bunker for paving material and a spray jet module. In order to increase the spray carrying capacity in a structurally simple manner, it is suggested that a reservoir unit comprising a spray reservoir and a paving material reservoir should be arranged in the material bunker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventors: Martin Buschmann, Arthur Braun
  • Patent number: 8021078
    Abstract: Conveyor assemblies for an asphalt paving machine and an asphalt paving machine. The conveyor assembly may include a first conveyor, a second conveyor generally parallel to the first conveyor, a central space being defined between the first conveyor and the second conveyor, and a cover assembly. The cover assembly may include a cover member positioned over the central space and covering the conveyor inner chains, the cover member having an upper surface substantially parallel to the conveyor surfaces, the cover member substantially preventing material from entering the central space between the first conveyor and the second conveyor, and a divider member connected to the cover member and extending generally perpendicular to the upper surface. The conveyor assembly may include scraper members operable to move material on the upper surface of the cover during movement of the conveyor chains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventor: Stan Lamb
  • Patent number: 8016516
    Abstract: A material dispensing vehicle broadly includes a material hopper supported by the vehicle and a swing auger with inlet and outlet ends. The swing auger is coupled to the vehicle for shifting into and out of an extended operating position where the inlet end is disposed to receive material from a discharge opening of the hopper and the outlet end can be outboard of the vehicle. From the operating position, the swing auger is shiftable into a compact storage position where the inlet end is spaced from the discharge opening and the outlet end is inboard of its outboard position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Bergkamp Incorporated
    Inventors: Eric Johnson, Matthew R. Ogorzolka
  • Publication number: 20110182665
    Abstract: Conveyor assemblies for an asphalt paving machine and an asphalt paving machine. The conveyor assembly may include a first conveyor, a second conveyor generally parallel to the first conveyor, a central space being defined between the first conveyor and the second conveyor, and a cover assembly. The cover assembly may include a cover member positioned over the central space and covering the conveyor inner chains, the cover member having an upper surface substantially parallel to the conveyor surfaces, the cover member substantially preventing material from entering the central space between the first conveyor and the second conveyor, and a divider member connected to the cover member and extending generally perpendicular to the upper surface. The conveyor assembly may include scraper members operable to move material on the upper surface of the cover during movement of the conveyor chains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
    Inventor: Stan Lamb
  • Patent number: 7963719
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying various different coating on surfaces including but not limited to roadways, parking lots, bridge decks, airport runways, offshore heliports and workboat walkways. Preferably, an applicator is provided that allows numerous different coatings to be applied to a surface. The coatings may be protective, decorative, non-skid and/or reflective in nature. Preferably, the applicator allows for the dispensing of two or more materials in at least two different manners (e.g., (i) two or more materials simultaneously applied to the surface to be coated; and, (ii) one material applied followed by application of one or more additional materials). Preferably, the applicator is lightweight and compact so that a single individual can carry the applicator while applying a coating to a surface to be coated. This allows the applicator to be used to coat surfaces in constricted areas including but not limited to workboat walkways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Jack H. Wilson, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20100296867
    Abstract: A road finisher (1) and a mobile supply unit (4) are described, between which a feed conveyor (7) with a discharge end (7a) is provided. Road finisher (1) and supply unit (4) are movable independently of each other in travel direction (F), and their relative positions with respect to each other can be detected by a sensor means (8, 18). To automate such a system as much as possible and to make it useable under all paving situations, it is suggested that the sensor means (8, 18) should include a position sensor (9) which has assigned thereto at least two mutually spaced-apart reference elements (10) for determining the position of the discharge end (7a) in, and transversely to, the direction of travel (F).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: JOSEPH VOEGELE AG
    Inventors: Martin Buschmann, Steffen Fickeisen
  • Patent number: 7837427
    Abstract: A method of transporting and storing an oilfield proppant is provided that includes transporting the proppant to a storage facility by use of a dump truck; providing a load assembly at the storage facility which comprises a load hopper and a load conveyor; transferring the proppant from the dump truck to the load hopper; and operating the load conveyor to transport the proppant from the load hopper to a proppant storage area of the storage facility to form an accumulation of stored proppant therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jeff Beckel, Roger Keese
  • Publication number: 20100239370
    Abstract: A hopper insert is provided for a road paver. The hopper insert includes a funnel-shaped base body formed by four side walls. The upper side of the base body is open and at least three of the side walls extend inwardly therefrom to a bottom opening. One of the side walls includes a side outlet which is open to the bottom opening. The base body or the side outlet is adjustable in a width direction extending along the side wall containing the side outlet. The hopper insert is removably disposed in an integrated hopper of a road paver. The integrated hopper includes a rear wall with a gate that is adjacent the side wall of the hopper insert containing the side outlet. The side outlet is adjustable in the width direction to correspond to the width of the gate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventors: Michael Hill, Scott Weese
  • Patent number: 7798744
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel seal coat process and equipment for applying the seal coat to improve the reliability of seal coat aggregate retention to the surface of the pavement by increasing the surface area of aggregate covered with binder and interlocking the aggregate with finer gradation material such as choke stone. It also relates to the use of lower amounts of asphalt binder, lower amounts of aggregate application, lower quality of aggregates, use of softer binders, and faster release to traffic times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Road Science, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Larry Larson, John Domichel
  • Patent number: 7771138
    Abstract: A multi-stage modular road building equipment system where a first stage base tractor is coupled to an intermediate stage, such as a spreading screw, and a third stage screed road paving tool attachment or other attachment such as a widener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Terex USA, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph E Musil
  • Publication number: 20100178107
    Abstract: A method of operating machine system includes receiving expected material placement data for a paving machine and comparing the expected material placement data with actual material placement data. The method further includes outputting a signal based on the comparison, and commanding replenishing material from a supply machine to the second supply volume responsive to the signal. A paving control system for a paving system includes a computer readable memory configured to store expected material placement data, a receiver configured to receive actual material placement data and a data processor configured to output a control signal to a supply machine to controllably replenish material to an external material supply volume for the paving system in a manner responsive to comparing the expected material placement data with the actual material replacement data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Katherine C. Braddy, Dean R. Potts, Robert J. Price
  • Publication number: 20100150652
    Abstract: A material dispensing vehicle broadly includes a material hopper supported by the vehicle and a swing auger with inlet and outlet ends. The swing auger is coupled to the vehicle for shifting into and out of an extended operating position where the inlet end is disposed to receive material from a discharge opening of the hopper and the outlet end can be outboard of the vehicle. From the operating position, the swing auger is shiftable into a compact storage position where the inlet end is spaced from the discharge opening and the outlet end is inboard of its outboard position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Bergkamp Incorporated
    Inventors: Eric Johnson, Matthew R. Ogorzolka
  • Patent number: 7726904
    Abstract: An mobile material placer or slinger with a placer conveyor having a gear-to-gear pivoting mechanism. The mobile material placer includes a body, a material hopper coupled to the body and configured to receive and store material, a feeder conveyor coupled to the body, and a placer conveyor pivotally coupled to the body about a vertical axis. The gear-to-gear pivoting mechanism includes a first gear attached to the body of the material placer and that drives a second gear fixedly mounted to the placer conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Rexius Forest By-Products, Inc.
    Inventor: David Looney
  • Patent number: 7726905
    Abstract: An apparatus for reconditioning a paved surface includes a vehicle adapted to traverse the paved surface. The vehicle has a manifold with a plurality of jets disposed within a surface adjacent the paved surface and at least one of the jets has a high temperature, high pressure nozzle. The high temperature, high pressure nozzle has a hard material with a hardness of at least 2,000 HK. The jets are in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir through a fluid pathway, and the fluid pathway has a pressurizing mechanism and a heating mechanism for bringing the fluid to a high temperature and a high pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David Wahiquist, Timothy Duke
  • Patent number: 7694805
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a guard assembly and its individual guards for protecting a conveyor system, such as the center conveyor frame. Related methods of installing or removing the individual guards and the guard assembly are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Glenn Schneider, Toby Frelich
  • Patent number: 7690863
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for holding a levelling strip (14) on a carriage for applying cold laid coatings, wherein said strip extends in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the direction of movement of the carriage, characterised in that said carriage comprises on the rear side opposite to the direction of its movement a support frame (12) which has an adjustable length so that it can adapt to the width of the application zone of the coating and which supports a levelling strip (14), made from a flexible and slightly elastic material, of which one first free end (16) is attached to a first free external edge of the support frame (18) and in that the second free external edge (20), that is opposite the first, of the support frame comprises a vertical axis breast roller (22) on which the levelling strip (14) is tensioned by means of a winding device (24) that applies to said strip a suitable tension while permitting the continuous adjustment of the working length of said strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Eurovia
    Inventors: Francis Fourches, Michel Pierre
  • Publication number: 20100040412
    Abstract: A conveying system for conveying material having a tendency to stick, in particular a mobile conveying system for paving material used for constructing road mats has at least one conveying element which is accommodated in a conveying channel. The conveying element is directly or indirectly driven by at least one combustion engine. The conveying system has a primary heating device predominantly for the conveying element and/or the conveying system. Furthermore, the conveying system has at least one secondary heating device for at least partially relieving the primary heating device. The secondary heating device is operated with direct or indirect exit heat of the combustion engine. Alternatively, a combination of a primary heating device and at least one secondary heating device is provided, which secondary heating device is operated with exit heat originating from the combustion engine in order to at least partially relieve the primary heating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventor: Steffen Fickeisen
  • Patent number: 7654772
    Abstract: A mobile asphalt production machine mixes bituminous concrete at the job site through a mixing auger mechanism mounted in an insulated housing. Propane burners provide heat within the mixing auger mechanism and within the insulated housing to produce a hot-mix bituminous concrete in large or small batches. The components of the asphalt mixture are stored in separate bins that can be re-filled at the job site to provide a continuous supply of asphalt. Hot liquid bitumen is added to heated aggregate within the mixing auger mechanism. Recycled asphalt can be added through a port in the mixing auger for incorporation into the mixture. Controls permit the rate of flow of each individual component to be selectively varied in order to change the recipe for the mixture and to provide calibration of the component, while a master control will maintain the pre-established flow rates through a variable speed of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Harold M. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20090285631
    Abstract: The present invention describes a road finisher for laying a paving material, comprising a material bunker for paving material and a spray jet module. In order to increase the spray carrying capacity in a structurally simple manner, it is suggested that a reservoir unit comprising a spray reservoir and a paving material reservoir should be arranged in the material bunker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventors: Martin Buschmann, Arthur Braun
  • Publication number: 20090274515
    Abstract: A road patching vehicle for patching damaged areas or potholes of various sizes and shapes on a roadway includes a boom assembly pivotally mounted at or on the forward end of the vehicle with a nozzle mounted at or toward the forward end of the boom. Various hoses connect the nozzle to a source of pressurized air, a source of patching emulsion (such as an asphalt emulsion), and a source of a rock aggregate with the vehicle operator controlling the flows individually or in various combinations thereof to prepare and then fill the pothole or other road defect to effect a patch. The nozzle is mounted on a pivot or journal to allow controlled pivoting or tilting of the nozzle under control of the operator in at least one degree of freedom. In a variant of the preferred form, the nozzle is mounted for control pivoting or tilting under the control of the operator in at least two degrees of freedom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew B. Cooper, Jeremy A. Rimmer
  • Publication number: 20090263193
    Abstract: A paver hopper flap suspension system has a number flaps attached to the hopper frame. A cable restraint line is attached to the flaps. A tensioning system is attached to the cable restraint line. The tensioning system allows the flaps to distort as the loading truck body engages the hopper entrance. Once the truck exits the hopper entrance the hopper flap suspension system causes the flaps to spring back to their original shape. The suspension system may include a torsion spring biasing the flaps into a vertical position. The tensioning system may include a tension adjuster. Using this system the flaps are not torn and hold the asphalt in place as the loading trucks dump asphalt into the hopper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Siegfried Mayer
  • Patent number: 7588388
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, a paved surface reconditioning system has a vehicle adapted to traverse a paved surface. The vehicle having a press plate with a working surface having plurality of nozzles disposed therein. At least one of the nozzles has an inner diameter less than 1 mm. A fluid passage may connect the nozzle to a reservoir. The reservoir and fluid passage have a volume and a pressurizing mechanism in communication with the volume and being adapted to pressurize at least a portion of the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David Wahiquist, Timothy C. Duke, Codrin Daranga
  • Publication number: 20090154995
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a guard assembly and its individual guards for protecting a conveyor system, such as the center conveyor frame. Related methods of installing or removing the individual guards and the guard assembly are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Glenn Schneider, Toby Frelich
  • Patent number: 7544011
    Abstract: An apparatus for regulating a flow of pavement rejuvenation materials for deposit on a roadway is disclosed in one aspect of the invention as including a first channel is supported by a pavement recycling machine and is in communication with a supply of pavement rejuvenation materials; a second channel slideably coupled to the first channel, the pavement rejuvenation materials adapted to flow through the first and second channels; and a hardened tip coupled to the second channel. The apparatus may also have a seat coupled to one of the channels; and a blocking element coupled to the other of the channels. Upon sliding the first channel with respect to the second channel, the blocking element contacts the seat, thereby impeding the flow of pavement rejuvenation materials flowing through the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Timothy C. Duke, David C. Wahlquist
  • Publication number: 20090097918
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel seal coat process and equipment for applying the seal coat to improve the reliability of seal coat aggregate retention to the surface of the pavement by increasing the surface area of aggregate covered with binder and interlocking the aggregate with finer gradation material such as choke stone. It also relates to the use of lower amounts of asphalt binder, lower amounts of aggregate application, lower quality of aggregates, use of softer binders, and faster release to traffic times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Larry Larson, John Domichel
  • Patent number: 7491012
    Abstract: A road finisher with an internal combustion engine and an engine exhaust pipe has a muffler with an enlarged diameter with respect to that of the engine exhaust pipe, and a pipe for discharging emissions of a building material. The emissions pipe passes though the muffler mounted to the muffler without discharging into the muffler and the exhaust pipe output is supplied to the muffler interior and the muffler has a discharge pipe for the engine exhaust gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventor: Ralf Weiser
  • Patent number: 7488138
    Abstract: In a road finisher having a spraying assembly for a bitumen emulsion, the spraying assembly has a plurality of spraying modules and one of the spraying modules has at least one pivotable spraying ramp at each side in the area of the carriage of the road finisher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Joseph Voegele AG
    Inventor: Martin Buschmann
  • Patent number: 7484911
    Abstract: A method of paving includes sensing values indicative of a material feed demand of a surface to be paved, and depositing material onto the surface. An electronic controller is configured to generate a control signal corresponding with a feed forward term associated with an expected change in the material feed demand. The method also includes controlling depositing material onto the surface responsive to the control signal. A machine such as a paving machine includes a control system in control communication with a material feed system and having an electronic controller configured to determine an expected material feed demand and responsively output material feed rate control signals to the feed apparatus to control depositing material onto the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Toby Andrew Frelich
  • Patent number: 7481601
    Abstract: A patcher system for patching a paved surface includes a remotely controllable arm attachable to a vehicle and a patching material dispensing subsystem disposed on the remotely controllable arm. The patcher system may be part of a mobile patcher system which additionally includes a vehicle, a patching material distribution subsystem disposed on the vehicle, and a control subsystem. A software product may include instructions that, when executed by a computer, perform steps for controlling the patcher system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Duraco, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Gilchrist
  • Patent number: 7458747
    Abstract: A multi-use asphalt paving tractor with frame raise capability and a blind-mateable connector to facilitate quick connection with interchangeable attachments for performing the functions of a paver, a mix transfer conveyor and road widener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Cedarapids, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Musil, Vince Egan
  • Patent number: 7458746
    Abstract: A mobile asphalt production machine mixes bituminous concrete at the job site through a mixing auger mechanism mounted in an insulated housing. Propane burners provide heat within the mixing auger mechanism and within the insulated housing to produce a hot-mix bituminous concrete in large or small batches. The components of the asphalt mixture are stored in separate bins that can be re-filled at the job site to provide a continuous supply of asphalt. Hot liquid bitumen is added to heated aggregate within the mixing auger mechanism. Recycled asphalt can be added through a port in the mixing auger for incorporation into the mixture. Controls permit the rate of flow of each individual component to be selectively varied in order to change the recipe for the mixture and to provide calibration of the component, while a master control will maintain the pre-established flow rates through a variable speed of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Harold M. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 7448826
    Abstract: A device for simultaneously spreading cut fibers and binders on a roadway width, includes, in the longitudinal direction, a first binder spreading set, a second cut fiber spreading set and a third binder spreading set, the second set including cutting tools, which are driven by a torque transmission member. The device is modular, the modules being transversally arranged side by side and each allowing to spread on a longitudinal lane of the roadway binders and cut fibers. Each module has a first nozzle, a tool for pulling and cutting continuous fibers and throwing cut fibers to the roadway, a second nozzle, the nozzles being connected to a common binder dispensing member. Each tool is removably mounted in its module between a working position where it is in the module and driven by the driving shaft and a releasing position where it is available to an operator and at rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Colas
    Inventor: Jérôme Laury
  • Patent number: 7441987
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for laying a curb is disclosed. The apparatus features a preferably tracked vehicle (tractor) that connects to a frame having a hopper. A hydraulic lifting arrangement enables hydraulic controls on the vehicle to elevate/lower the frame. The frame has a hopper for receiving wet concrete and a curb shaping portion that shapes the wet concrete into a curb shape. A specially configured interface maintains attitude of the frame during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Larry Sampey
  • Publication number: 20080031688
    Abstract: A patcher system for patching a paved surface includes a remotely controllable arm attachable to a vehicle and a patching material dispensing subsystem disposed on the remotely controllable arm. The patcher system may be part of a mobile patcher system which additionally includes a vehicle, a patching material distribution subsystem disposed on the vehicle, and a control subsystem. A software product may include instructions that, when executed by a computer, perform steps for controlling the patcher system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Robert A. Gilchrist
  • Patent number: 7316520
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in shearing paving material applied to a surface is provided. This apparatus includes a blade for shearing the asphalt mixture to a desired thickness, cylinders for raising and lowering the blade in response to elevational changes in the surface, at least one signal generator associated with each cylinder and adapted to produce a signal indicative of the elevation of the surface, and at least one signal receiver associated with each signal generator. This blade apparatus is coupled with a prime mover. The receiver is operable to activate the cylinders in response to a signal received from the generator. The blade is raised and lowered as the elevation of the surface changes in response to signals emanating from the generator allowing surface level variations to be evened out while paving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: SemMaterials, L.P.
    Inventor: Bill Grubba
  • Patent number: 7316522
    Abstract: A placer/spreader for distributing already mixed concrete from an access road to a subgrade path to be paved includes a frame having at least two side bolsters standing parallel to the subgrade path and at least two cross beams spanning the subgrade path for forming a conveyor supporting structure. A roll in/roll out conveyor has a receiving end for receiving already mixed concrete from an access road and a discharge end for discharging already mixed concrete to the subgrade path, this conveyor being hinged to enable conformation to differing access road elevations. One of the two side bolsters defines forward and rear transport attachment points with a spatial interval between the transport attachment points. This spatial interval permits the roll in/roll out conveyor to be supported between forward and rear attachment points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Guntert & Zimmerman Const. Div., Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Guntert, Jr., Rick Francis
  • Patent number: 7311465
    Abstract: In combination with a placers/spreader having a frame including at least two side bolsters standing parallel to the subgrade path and at least two cross beams spanning the subgrade path forming a conveyor supporting structure. A rail system is attached spanning the frame, and has a roll in/roll out conveyor with a cantilevered support at one of the side bolsters and a support for attachment to and support from the rail system. The conveyor moves in traversing motion across the frame to distribute concrete. The improvement comprises a strike off beam and spreader plow assembly for trailing attachment to the frame of a placer/spreader. We thus disclose a strike off beam with spreader plow assembly which can be removably attached to either side of a placer/spreader to avoid the necessity of relocating the receiving conveyor when the location of the access road changes from one side to the other or direction of spreading changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Guntert & Zimmerman Const. Div., Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Guntert, Jr., Rick Francis
  • Patent number: 7300225
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for heating hot mix asphalt (HMA), via collecting fumes from HMA while the HMA is on-board a vehicle and in motion within the vehicle, and igniting the HMA with engine exhaust and using the heat of combustion of the HMA to heat HMA, such as via the floor of a re-mix machine or paver which is capable of churning and mixing the HMA which increases emission of HMA fumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Cedarapids, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph E. Musil
  • Patent number: 7284929
    Abstract: At least two paving screeds B1, B2 which are distant in operation running direction R are supported at a chassis 1 of a paver F. The paver F is designed for simultaneously casting several paving material layers L1, L2 on top of each other on a plane P. Each paving screed B1, B2 is provided with a compaction assembly. One paving screed B1 for casting a lower layer L1 is provided at a front end section of the chassis 1 and has the compaction assembly 13, 14 for generating a degree of compaction in the lower layer L1 which suffices to withstand the direct contact of the undercarriage 2. At least one further paving screed B2 for casting an upper layer L2 is arranged behind the undercarriage 2. According to the method to be carried out with the paver F the lower layer which is cast and compacted in front of the undercarriage allows to run the undercarriage 2 on the lower layer while the upper layer L2 is cast and compacted behind the undercarriage 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Joseph Vogele AG
    Inventor: Dieter Schwenninger
  • Patent number: 7201536
    Abstract: An improved asphalt patching machine which is mountable to a motor vehicle having a supply of asphalt patch material thereon. The patching machine comprises a dispensing and finishing assembly fed by a multi-part, articulatable conveyor which feeds asphalt patching material to the dispensing and finishing assembly, which is movable in substantially the plane of the roadway, to position the dispensing and finishing assembly over the effected area to be patched. The machine first deposits patching material in the effected area and, thereafter, from the dispensing and finishing assembly, integrates the patch into the existing surrounding roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventors: Mark Westbrook, Micky Wayne Simpson