Abstract: The present invention relates to an asphalt pavement constructing machine and a method for operating an asphalt pavement constructing machine provided with an asphalt compacting surface for compacting asphalt mix on a paving surface during an asphalt pavement formation operation. At least one exciter is provided that vibrates the compacting surface at one or more frequencies selected to prevent the asphalt mix from adhering to the compacting surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a surface compactor and a method of operating a surface compactor. The surface compactor is provided with at least one compacting surface for compacting a substrate an excitation system that generates a substantially square wave vibrational displacement or force that vibrates the least one compacting surface during compaction to increase the compaction rate of the substrate.

Abstract: A worksite-management system includes a display component and one or more information-processors. The one or more information-processors may be configured to acquire information about a history of travel of one or more non-compactor mobile machines across a terrain surface of a worksite. The one or more information-processors may also be configured to process the acquired information to generate a digital map indicative of compaction of the terrain surface as a function of the history of travel of the one or more non-compactor mobile machines across the terrain surface. Additionally, the one or more information-processors may be configured to present on the display component information related to the compaction of the terrain surface as a function of the history of travel of the one or more non-compactor mobile machines across the terrain surface.

Abstract: A machine comprising a vibratory compactor assembly having a cylindrical drum connected to the machine with an axle. The assembly has a shaft extending concentrically through the center of the cylindrical drum that has a first end and a second end. The shaft has an electromagnet between its first end and second end. The electromagnet can receive electric current to create a magnetic field that applies an attractive magnetic force between the shaft and the drum that pulls the shaft and at least a portion of the drum toward one another.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a construction machine having a machine frame and an operator platform structure which is vibration-decoupled in relation to the machine frame via at least one damping element. A hitch device is arranged on the operator platform structure, which is designed for lifting the construction machine. The present invention is characterized in that a limiting device is also provided which limits the maximum load of the at least one damping element upon lifting of the construction machine via the operator platform structure and allows a direct force relay between the operator platform structure and the machine frame while bypassing the damping element. The construction machine is preferably a tandem roller.

Abstract: A vibratory roller machine includes a chassis supported on one or more drum assemblies including an exciter assembly for compacting the ground on which the machine travels. The machine is operated via a number of drive and exciter motors powered by a series hybrid drive system. The series hybrid drive system includes an engine and generator that are configured to provide power to the system under nominal operating conditions. The series hybrid drive system further includes a power storage system, such as battery bank or a capacitor bank that is configured to provide the motors with additional power during peak power demand. The vibratory roller machine may, for example, be a walk-behind trench roller or ride-on roller.

Abstract: A vibratory roller machine includes a chassis supported on one or more drum assemblies including an exciter assembly for compacting the ground on which the machine travels. The machine is operated via a number of drive and exciter motors powered by a series hybrid drive system. The series hybrid drive system includes an engine and generator that are configured to provide power to the system under nominal operating conditions. The series hybrid drive system further includes a power storage system, such as battery bank or a capacitor bank that is configured to provide the motors with additional power during peak power demand. The vibratory roller machine may, for example, be a walk-behind trench roller or ride-on roller.

Abstract: A system and method for lubricating a key shaft in a compaction machine is disclosed. The compaction machine may include a spline oil cavity and a key shaft in fluid communication with the spline oil cavity. The key shaft may include an axial splined portion and a helical splined portion on an outer surface thereof, a longitudinal lubricating passage extending through a substantial length of the key shaft and a plurality of additional lubricating passages intersecting the longitudinal lubricating passage. The system and method may additionally include lubricating the axial splined portion and the helical splined portion of the key shaft with the lubricating oil drawn from the spline oil cavity.

Abstract: A machine comprising a vibratory compactor assembly having a cylindrical drum connected to the machine with an axle. The assembly has a shaft extending concentrically through the center of the cylindrical drum that has a first end and a second end. The shaft has an electromagnet between its first end and second end. The electromagnet can receive electric current to create a magnetic field that applies an attractive magnetic force between the shaft and the drum that pulls the shaft and at least a portion of the drum toward one another.

Abstract: A compactor includes a frame and a compacting element coupled to the frame. An edge wheel assembly is also coupled to the frame and is adjustable between a raised configuration and a lowered configuration at which an edge wheel contacts a substrate outboard of the compacting element. The compactor further includes a spray system for the edge wheel, and a control device in control communication with the spray system and configured to command activation of the spray system responsive to detecting lowering of the edge wheel.

Abstract: A vibratory tamper comprises a roller assembly, a chassis, a frame, and a vibrator. The roller assembly includes a roller drum having a roller surface. The chassis is supported on the roller assembly. The chassis includes a body and a grip. The frame is engaged by the grip of the chassis. The frame includes a handle positioned to be used by an operator to support at least a portion of the frame during operation of the vibratory tamper. The vibrator is supported on the chassis and operable to transfer vibration through the chassis to the roller assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for flattening a half-dry concrete floor includes a plurality of pressure rollers arranged such that axes of them are parallel with one another in an imaginary plane, a holder rotatably supporting the pressure rollers at opposite ends of the pressure rollers, an oscillation-transmitter formed integral with the holder for transmitting oscillation to the pressure rollers, and an oscillator for oscillating the oscillation-transmitter.

Abstract: Apparatus for transferring a linear load through a high-speed rotating member includes a linear actuator containing an axially translatable cylinder rod. A mounting adapter fixed against axial and rotary movement is rigidly affixed to an actuator cylinder containing the cylinder rod. An elongate guide sleeve, fixed to the mounting adapter, extends axially from the adapter to accommodate an axially translatable thrust bearing affixed to one end of the cylinder rod. The guide sleeve contains a linear slot for accommodating a guide pin affixed to the thrust bearing housing, and transversely movable within the linear slot to prevent rotation of both bearing housing and cylinder rod components.

Abstract: A vibratory compactor machine includes a machine frame and a roller drum rotatably coupled to the frame and rotatable about a drum axis oriented generally traverse to the direction of travel of the machine. A vibration assembly is disposed inside the roller drum. The vibration assembly includes a first eccentric member and a second eccentric member rotatably disposed in the roller drum and rotatable about a respective first and second eccentric axes orientated perpendicularly to the drum axis. The roller drum rotates about the drum axis independently of the vibration assembly and the first and second eccentric members.

Abstract: A vibratory roller is provided with an exciter assembly that need not be lubricated by an oil bath because the exciter gears need not be lubricated. At least an outer ring portion of at least one gear of the exciter assembly is formed from a non-metallic material. In one embodiment, a first gear is a composite gear having an outer toothed ring portion formed from a machined nylon material imbedded with at least one of a heat stabilizer and a lubricant, and a second, mating gear is formed from metal and acts as heat sink for the first gear. In another embodiment, both the first and second gears are composite gears having an outer toothed ring formed from a robust and thermally stable molded polymer. The gears can survive when the roller is operated at least 8 hours at a duty cycle of at least 50% while operating the roller at an ambient temperature of over 38° C. (100° F.) and while the exciter shaft is driven at a velocity of over 2,000 RPM and the exciter housing is subjected to over 31.

Abstract: A compaction device includes at least one traveling drum rotatable about a drum shaft and having vibration exciters including unbalanced masses rotating out of phase by 180 degrees in the same direction of rotation and generating an oscillation torque about the drum shaft, and having a drive shaft running coaxial to the drum shaft for driving the vibration exciters. The drum is divided at least once and each drum part includes at least two coupled vibration exciters mounted at a distance from the drum shaft in the drum.

Abstract: An apparatus for compacting road shoulders is provided comprising a primary carriage adapted to be mounted to a vehicle, an attachment carriage adjustably mounted to the primary carriage, a compacting attachment adjustably mounted to the attachment carriage, a control system in communication with at least one actuator, and a vibrator disposed on the apparatus. The apparatus for compacting road shoulders able to be positioned within a normal width of a vehicle, vibrationally compact the road shoulder, and adjust according to a grade of the shoulder.

Abstract: A vibratory roller is provided with an exciter assembly that need not be lubricated by an oil bath because the exciter gears need not be lubricated. At least an outer ring portion of at least one gear of the exciter assembly is formed from a non-metallic material. In one embodiment, a first gear is a composite gear having an outer toothed ring portion formed from a machined nylon material imbedded with at least one of a heat stabilizer and a lubricant, and a second, mating gear is formed from metal and acts as heat sink for the first gear. In another embodiment, both the first and second gears are composite gears having an outer toothed ring formed from a robust and thermally stable molded polymer. The gears can survive when the roller is operated at least 8 hours at a duty cycle of at least 50% while operating the roller at an ambient temperature of over 38° C. (100° F.) and while the exciter shaft is driven at a velocity of over 2,000 RPM and the exciter housing is subjected to over 31.

Abstract: A method for compacting a surface of granular materials is disclosed. The method is applicable to wheeled compaction equipment such as pneumatic-tire compactors, drum-type compactors and asphalt compactors. The propel system includes a controller programmed to send a first at least substantially constant propel command that propels the compaction equipment in a forward direction. The controller then changes the speed of the compaction equipment by providing a second varying propel command that may increase or decrease the speed resulting from the first command. As a result, the speed of the compaction equipment oscillates, and the compaction process is improved.

Abstract: A screed machine is formed with a forwardly positioned screed assembly including a wedge portion and pivoted wing members. The frame is supported on two rollers spaced behind the screed assembly, which is mounted on a mast for vertical movement in conjunction with a laser receiver that provides a signal from a laser level indicating the final desired grade of the stone base. The machine can be turned at a corner by extension of a jack stand to elevate the machine for rotation about the axis defined by the centrally located jack stand so that the screed machine can be redirected into a different direction without disturbing the final grade of the stone base. The screed machine is manually moved along the stone base by an operator pulling on the handle pivotally connected to the frame. A sight line provides a monitor for the lateral orientation of the screed assembly.

Abstract: A vibratory compactor machine includes a machine frame and a roller drum rotatably coupled to the frame and rotatable about a drum axis oriented generally traverse to the direction of travel of the machine. A vibration assembly is disposed inside the roller drum. The vibration assembly includes a first eccentric member and a second eccentric member rotatably disposed in the roller drum and rotatable about a respective first and second eccentric axes orientated perpendicularly to the drum axis. The roller drum rotates about the drum axis independently of the vibration assembly and the first and second eccentric members.

Abstract: A compactor system includes a tipped drum having a plurality of tips, and a drum axle rotatably coupling the tipped drum to a frame. The compactor system further includes a sensor configured to sense a parameter indicative of a height of the drum axle above a surface of a material substrate, and an electronic control unit configured to output a compaction progress signal responsive to inputs from the sensor. Related methods of preparing a work area with a compactor system, and determining a compaction state of a material substrate, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for sensing surface compaction effected by a compactor machine of the type having a vibrating compacting roller, and providing a sensor signal indicating sensed surface compaction to a control mounted on the compactor machine, includes a sensor for sensing compaction and providing a signal indicating sensed surface compaction. The sensor is mounted on the compacting roller support of the compactor machine. The system includes a vibration-to-electric energy converter, mounted with the sensor on the compacting roller support and subjected to vibration. The converter converts the vibration energy to electric energy which may be supplied to the sensor and to a transmitter. The transmitter is powered by the electric energy from said vibration-to-electric energy converter and transmits the sensor signal to a receiver on the machine. The receiver provides the sensor signal to a control for the machine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the articulated connection of two vehicle frames, a front and a rear frame, of a construction machine, especially a vibration roller. The apparatus comprises a pivot joint with a vertical pivot axis and a crab-steering joint with a vertical rotational axis. It further comprises a connection support which connects the pivot joint and the crab-steering joint with one another, and a connecting rod which is linked on one side to the vehicle frame and on the other side to the connection support. It further comprises a steering drive for relative pivoting of the front and rear frame about the pivot axis, the steering drive being linked on the one side to one of the vehicle frames and on the other side to the connection support, and a crab-steering drive for setting a lateral offset between the front and the rear frame, the crab-steering drive being linked on one side to one of the vehicle frames and on the other to the connection support.

Abstract: A method of compacting a roadway section includes entering initial input parameters into a compaction analyzer. A plurality of passes is made with a roller over a portion of the roadway section and vibratory energy is applied thereto. Responsive vibration signals are gathered and the compaction analyzer generates estimated density signals. Actual density measurements are taken and the estimated densities are compared thereto. Selected ones of the initial input parameters are adjusted so that an adjusted density output signal which represents the actual density of a roadway section is generated.

Abstract: A soil compaction device has a vibrated contact element that makes contact with the soil during a contact phase and that is exposed to a contact force exerted by the soil and travels over a contact distance. A dynamic stiffness of the soil is formed from the gradient of the contact force and from the contact distance. Furthermore, a contact surface parameter to take account of the actual contact surface of the contact element with the soil is determined. The dynamic deformation modulus is then the product of the contact surface parameter and the dynamic stiffness. The method allows the determination of the dynamic deformation modulus, and hence of the soil stiffness, during the compaction operation.

Abstract: A vibratory system for a compactor is provided. The vibratory system has a first eccentric, a second eccentric, and a drive shaft. The second eccentric is rotatably and coaxially positioned with respect to the first eccentric. The drive shaft is rotatably coupled to the second eccentric and rotatably coupled to the first eccentric through a helical spline.

Abstract: A method of operating a surface compactor is provided. The method may include supporting a base of the surface compactor on a surface. The method may also include generating a fluctuating vertical force on the base with a vibratory mechanism, which may include moving one or more weights of the vibratory mechanism with a drive system of the vibratory mechanism. Additionally, the method may include sensing a parameter of the operation of the vibratory mechanism that fluctuates in reaction to moving the one or more weights to generate the fluctuating vertical force. The method may also include automatically adjusting the operation of the vibratory mechanism to adjust the fluctuating vertical force based at least in part on the sensed parameter.

Abstract: A method of operating a surface compactor is provided. The method may include supporting a base of the surface compactor on a surface. The method may also include generating a fluctuating vertical force on the base with a vibratory mechanism, which may include moving one or more weights of the vibratory mechanism with a drive system of the vibratory mechanism. Additionally, the method may include sensing a parameter of the operation of the vibratory mechanism that fluctuates in reaction to moving the one or more weights to generate the fluctuating vertical force. The method may also include automatically adjusting the operation of the vibratory mechanism to adjust the fluctuating vertical force based at least in part on the sensed parameter.

Abstract: A system and method for sensing surface compaction effected by a compactor machine of the type having a vibrating compacting roller, and providing a sensor signal indicating sensed surface compaction to a control mounted on the compactor machine, includes a sensor for sensing compaction and providing a signal indicating sensed surface compaction. The sensor is mounted on the compacting roller support of the compactor machine. The system includes a vibration-to-electric energy converter, mounted with the sensor on the compacting roller support and subjected to vibration. The converter converts the vibration energy to electric energy which may be supplied to the sensor and to a transmitter. The transmitter is powered by the electric energy from said vibration-to-electric energy converter and transmits the sensor signal to a receiver on the machine. The receiver provides the sensor signal to a control for the machine.

Abstract: A method of compacting a roadway section includes entering initial input parameters into a compaction analyzer. A plurality of passes is made with a roller over a portion of the roadway section and vibratory energy is applied thereto. Responsive vibration signals are gathered and the compaction analyzer generates estimated density signals. Actual density measurements are taken and the estimated densities are compared thereto. Selected ones of the initial input parameters are adjusted so that an adjusted density output signal which represents the actual density of a roadway section is generated.

Abstract: An apparatus for actuating a vibratory mechanism in a vehicle comprising a sensor configured to produce an operational value signal indicative of an operational characteristic of the vehicle; a computing device operable to receive the operational value signal and determine actuation values based at least in part on the operational value signal and to produce a corresponding control signal for selectively actuating the vibratory mechanism; and an input device configured to modify the actuation values during operation of the vehicle. A method for controlling a vibratory mechanism in a vehicle comprising the steps of producing an operational value signal indicative of an operational characteristic of the vehicle; determining actuation values from the operational value signal; modifying actuation values during operation of the vehicle; and signaling the vibratory mechanism to actuate in response to actuation values.

Abstract: Disclosed are skids steer loaders and vibratory roller attachments embodiments in which an improved variable isolator is provided to isolate the skid steer loader, and thus the operator of the loader, from the severity of the vibrations in the vibratory roller. The vibratory roller attachment includes a frame configured to be mounted to the skid steer loader. A drum is supported by the frame, and an eccentric weight is positioned within the drum. A plurality of variable isolators couple the drum to the frame to provide isolation of the skid steer loader from vibrations of the vibratory roller. The plurality of variable isolators each have a non-cylindrical exterior shape. The non-cylindrical shape can include an exterior surface having curved end portions separated by a substantially linear middle portion to allow for improved deflection of the variable isolators, and thus improved vibration isolation between the attachment and the skid steer loader.

Abstract: A trench compactor assembly for use with a piece of equipment, the trench compactor assembly comprises: a compactor wheel, a frame assembly, a compactor mount, and an exciter. The frame assembly comprises one or more primary frame members and one or more extension members. The one or more primary frame members have a first end disposed adjacent the rotational axis of the compactor wheel, a second end spaced apart from the peripheral compaction surface of the compactor wheel, and a length greater than the radius of the compactor wheel extending between the first end and the second end. The exciter is disposed adjacent the second end of the one or more primary frame members such that the exciter is substantially aligned with the first and second ends of the primary frame members and the rotational axis of the compactor wheel. The exciter is selectively connected to a hydraulic system of the piece of equipment such that the exciter is further selectively actuated to generate vibrations.

Abstract: A vibratory roller unit with a framework having a rotating shaft and a drum. The shaft has a fixed inboard eccentric weight and an outboard eccentric weight rotatable with respect to the fixed inboard eccentric weight for varying the amplitude of the vibrations on the drum. A powered lawn mower of the type adapted for mowing greens on golf courses and having a powered vertically adjustable reel cutting unit is converted into a greensroller when a vibratory roller unit is substituted for each reel cutting unit.

Abstract: A vibration roller includes a roller with a vibration generator that has at least one unbalance shaft. The vibration generator is located above the vibration roller.

Abstract: A roller type asphalt pad and/or soil compactor adapted to compact asphalt paving and sub-grading closely adjacent to building walls, poles, edgings, curbs, and barriers. The roller comprises at least one end having an axially offset cylindrical extension having a recessed hub, or no hub, which allows the extension to compress the paving without having a hub or similar end attachment that prevents the roller assembly from working snugly against a wall or barrier.

Abstract: According to the invention, a single device permits the relative soil rigidity values of a section of soil to be determined in a rapid measuring method and in addition, absolute soil rigidity values to be determined in a slightly slower method. If the device is calibrated with the aid of the measured absolute values, a rapid absolute measurement can also take place. The device can also be used for soil compaction.

Abstract: A method of operating a surface compactor is provided. The method may include supporting a base of the surface compactor on a surface. The method may also include generating a fluctuating vertical force on the base with a vibratory mechanism, which may include moving one or more weights of the vibratory mechanism with a drive system of the vibratory mechanism. Additionally, the method may include sensing a parameter of the operation of the vibratory mechanism that fluctuates in reaction to moving the one or more weights to generate the fluctuating vertical force. The method may also include automatically adjusting the operation of the vibratory mechanism to adjust the fluctuating vertical force based at least in part on the sensed parameter.

Abstract: A vibrating trench compactor apparatus including a first frame, a second frame, and a compactor wheel. The first frame has an adapter plate connectable to a vehicle and a first arm and second arm extending from the adapter plate. A plurality of vibration dampening members are disposed through each arm. The second frame has a motor mounting plate and a first leg and a second leg extending from the motor mounting plate where the first and second leg are interconnected to the vibration dampening members. The compactor wheel is rotatably connected to the first leg and the second leg and a vibration motor is mounted to the motor mounting plate of the second frame for imparting vibrational movement to the compactor wheel via the second frame.

Abstract: The present invention provides a safety device of vibration roller wherein a travel switching device of the roller is switched to a neutral position automatically and the roller stops automatically when the operator is caught between the roller and an obstacle, and a safety switch is activated, even if the travel lever is placed in the reverse position continuously. A back end (16a) of an outer tube of an operation cable (7) is locked in front of the travel lever (4) in the case (2) when a safety switch (22) is not activated, the back end (16a) of the outer tube is released and displaced to a direction of the travel lever (4) when the safety switch (22) is activated.

Abstract: A vibrating trench compactor apparatus including a first frame, a second frame, and a compactor wheel. The first frame has an adapter plate connectable to a vehicle and a first arm and second arm extending from the adapter plate. A plurality of vibration dampening members are disposed through each arm. The second frame has a motor mounting plate and a first leg and a second leg extending from the motor mounting plate where the first and second leg are interconnected to the vibration dampening members. The compactor wheel is rotatably connected to the first leg and the second leg and a vibration motor is mounted to the motor mounting plate of the second frame for imparting vibrational movement to the compactor wheel via the second frame.

Abstract: A split drum is provided for a compacting work machine and includes a first and a second drum section. A support arrangement defines a housing that surrounds a vibratory mechanism and is adapted to support the first and second drum sections. The support arrangement comprises a first support member and a second support member that are rotatably connected. Rotational power may be supplied to the first and second drum sections through the use of a propel motor. The first and second drum sections may be rotated at equal speeds or different speeds relative to one another.

Abstract: A controller for use in a vibratory mechanism includes an amplitude control circuit that generates an amplitude control signal that varies from a minimum value to a maximum value. The vibratory mechanism is adapted to vibrate at an amplitude based on an amplitude control signal characteristic. Additionally, the controller includes a frequency control circuit that is operatively coupled to the amplitude control-circuit to produce a frequency control signal that varies based on the amplitude control signal characteristic.

Abstract: An eccentric shaft assembly for a vibratory roller utilizes a cylindrical tubular shaft that considerably reduces the weight of the assembly, decreases substantially oscillatory shaft deflection during rotation and thereby improves bearing and seal life. The eccentric weights are mounted on the interior of the tubular shaft, thereby simplifying manufacture and providing a smoother operation.

Abstract: A lightweight, easy to assemble, and compact exciter assembly for a compaction device such as a drum assembly of a vibratory trench roller or the like includes a fixed weight and one or more free swinging weights mounted on an exciter shaft, without using any mounting hardware, so as to hold the free swinging weights axially in position while permitting them to swing between first and second angular positions on the exciter shaft. Preferably, the fixed weight is mounted on a central portion of the exciter shaft, and two free swinging weights are mounted adjacent the ends of the fixed weight so as to be restrained from substantial sliding movement along the exciter shaft solely by the fixed weight and other operative components of the exciter assembly such as bearings and/or gears or other torque transfer elements.

Abstract: A vibratory mechanism is provided for a compacting work machine. The vibratory mechanism includes at least one eccentric weight rotatably positioned within a housing. Pressurized fluid is introduced into the vibratory mechanism at an inlet passage. A means for moving fluid through the vibratory mechanism and lubricating a pair of bearings is provided that operates during rotation of the eccentric weight.

Abstract: A manually guided roller-type compactor having a roller, a vibrator assembly, compactor frame, a drive assembly and a directional control assembly. The vibrator assembly is selectively positioned by the directional control assemble along a radial path for propelling the compactor in a forward direction or a reverse direction while simultaneously providing compacting forces. The center of the radial path is coincident with the axis of the roller rotation. The vibrator assembly may be mounted interior of the roller or alternatively exterior of the roller.

Abstract: In a compressor comprising at least one traveling drum (4,4a,4b) rotatable about a drum axis (2), and an oscillation exciter supported in the drum (4,4a, 4b), the angular position of the oscillation exciter being adjustable by an adjustable pivoting angle relative to a vertical plane which extends through the drum axis (2), it is provided that the oscillation exciter comprises a pendulum-type vibrator (10) having a pendulum-type housing (8) which pivots about a pivoting axis extending coaxially to the drum axis (2) and includes a single unbalance exciter shaft (12) supported at a radial parallel distance to the drum axis (2) in the pendulum-type housing (8), wherein the pendulum-type vibrator (10) generates an elliptical drum oscillation.

Abstract: A device for compacting the soil comprising a soil contact element which is impinged upon by an oscillation exciter enabling the soil to be compacted. The soil contact element is elastically coupled to an upper mass. The upper mass is used as a detection mass, whereby the acceleration thereof is detected by an acceleration sensor. A measuring signal emitted by the acceleration sensor is evaluated in a control device which controls the oscillation exciter according to a deviation from a set value.