Abstract: A system for monitoring the operation of a boom is disclosed. The boom has at least one boom section, with each boom section being supported by an actuator assembly such that a load supported by a particular actuator assembly is representative of operation of a corresponding boom section and of a total load experienced by that boom section. A first parameter is sensed, the first parameter being indicative of a load supported by a first actuator assembly. It is determined from the sensed first parameter when a total load supported by the first actuator assembly exceeds a predetermined value. Information, indicative of one or more occurrences of total loads exceeding the predetermined value, is stored. Based upon the stored information, an output is provided which is indicative of a cause of boom failure.

Abstract: A system for de-icing aircraft in a de-icing area includes a first recessed storage area located substantially below ground level on a first side of the de-icing area. A first spraying boom, having at least one boom section, is used to apply de-icing solution to surfaces of aircraft. A first spray nozzle, for applying de-icing solution to surfaces of aircraft, is supported by the first spraying boom. The first spraying boom may be raised out of the first recessed storage area when an aircraft needs de-icing and lowered into the first recessed storage area for storage when aircraft de-icing is complete.

Abstract: A system for the transport of high solids sludge includes a positive displacement pump for pumping sludge through a pipeline. The volume of sludge transported is accurately measured by determining the fill percentage during pumping cycle.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling operation of a sludge material handling system is disclosed. The sludge material handling system includes a positive displacement piston/cylinder pump, a sludge material feed system which delivers sludge material to the pump, and a sludge material disposal system which receives and disposes of sludge material from the pump. A first parameter is sensed, the first parameter bearing a known relationship to an actual volume of sludge material delivered during a pumping cycle. An output value is determined from the first parameter. A control signal is provided as a function of the output value.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the transport of concrete includes a computer, pump sensors, and a positive displacement pump for pumping concrete through a pipeline. The monitoring system senses and records the number of pump strokes and the pumping pressure during each pump stroke. The actual volume and instantaneous pumping rates of concrete pumped during each pump stroke are calculated. Based upon a calculated velocity and upon the pressure of the concrete being pumped, the monitoring system provides predicted component wear information for maintenance scheduling and warranty verification.

Abstract: A system for the transport of high solids materials such as concrete includes a positive displacement pump, a pipeline connected to the pump and a valve in the pipeline located downstream from the pump for preventing material flow through the pipeline when the valve is in a closed position. The valve is closed at the end of each pumping stroke to prevent material flow through the pipeline. The pressure of material on the pump side of the valve is sensed. During a subsequent pumping stroke, the valve is opened when sufficient pressure exists on the pump side of the valve to ensure that material will flow in a positive direction through the pipeline.

Abstract: A system for the transport of high solids sludge includes a positive displacement pump for pumping sludge through a pipeline. The volume of sludge transported is accurately measured by determining the fill percentage during pumping cycle.

Abstract: A system for the transport of high solids sludge includes a positive displacement pump for pumping sludge through a pipeline. The volume of sludge transported is accurately measured by determining the fill percentage by using a material flow signal, measured time intervals, hydraulic fluid pressure, or hydraulic fluid flow rate during each pumping cycle.

Abstract: A load transfer assembly is used on a vehicle which has one or more outriggers. The load transfer assembly consists of an axle assembly mounted proximate the outer end of at least one of the outriggers. The axle assembly bears at least one ground-engaging wheel and is selectively pivotable between a first axle support and transport position, with the wheel in engagement with the ground (outrigger retracted), and a second axle storage position, with the wheel out of engagement with the ground (outrigger extended).