Abstract: Apparatus and methods for manipulating concrete products having first and second ends. The apparatus comprises first and second engaging assemblies for engaging the first and second ends of the product. The engaging assemblies are mounted on a structural assembly. At least one of the engaging assemblies is displaced along the structural assembly towards the other of the engaging assemblies to grip the concrete product therebetween. A rotational actuator may be provided for each of the engaging assemblies for rotating the concrete product from a casting orientation into an installation orientation. The structural assembly may accommodate one or more sets of engaging assemblies and may be designed to allow fine adjustment of these assemblies relative to the concrete products to be manipulated.

Abstract: Apparatus for manipulating concrete products having first and second ends. The apparatus includes first and second engaging assemblies for engaging the first and second ends of the product. The engaging assemblies are mounted on a structural assembly. At least one of the engaging assemblies is displaced along the structural assembly towards the other of the engaging assemblies to grip the concrete product therebetween. A rotational actuator may be provided for each of the engaging assemblies for rotating the concrete product from a casting orientation into an installation orientation. The structural assembly may accommodate one or more sets of engaging assemblies and may be designed to allow fine adjustment of these assemblies relative to the concrete products to be manipulated.

Abstract: Overall production line equipment is utilized in producing many large concrete panels, in an initial horizontal position, during each day of many operational days, with these panels preferably being later installed vertically with other like panels to form a sound barrier alongside a vehicle way. Each concrete panel has its own integral pilasters at respective edges, in turn having respective tongue and groove edges; respective patterns and color accents on each side, with the pattern on the then top side being formed by using a rockable stamp subassembly, mounted on a cart; reinforcing throughout the panels, inclusive of the integral pilasters; lifting subassemblies; and anchoring subassemblies, adapted to be later mated with a receiving subassembly anchored in a concrete footing, located where the panel with other panels forms a sound barrier alongside vehicle ways.