Patents Assigned to Valmont Industries, Inc.
  • Patent number: 11451038
    Abstract: The present invention includes a flexible jumper jig which is reconfigurable to replicate the end positions of a flexible jumper as it would be on an installed substation. According to a further preferred embodiment, an exemplary system of the present invention may include a framework forming three orthogonal axes and repositionable tooling mounts for end fittings. According to another aspect of the present invention, an x-axis oriented rail may preferably hold a tooling mount which is configurable to be rotated about its axis to allow for alternate tooling mount orientations. Further, a y-axis oriented rail may be perpendicular to the x-axis rail and may be fixed. Still further, a z-axis oriented rail may be perpendicular to and slide along the y-axis rail. Additionally, a second tooling mount may be attached to the z-axis rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles S. Ambrister, Keven W. Carroll, Shannon R. Eggert, David J. Preston
  • Patent number: 11429071
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method which includes a machine learning module which analyzes data collected from one or more sources such as UAVs, satellites, span mounted crop sensors, direct soil sensors and climate sensors. According to a further preferred embodiment, the machine learning module preferably creates sets of field objects from within a given field and uses the received data to create a predictive model for each defined field object based on detected characteristics from each field object within the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob L. Larue, Andrew Carritt, Joshua M. Dixon
  • Patent number: 11388868
    Abstract: The present invention provides an irrigation system that includes a control system for determining whether to apply an applicant to an agricultural field. In an implementation, the control system includes memory operable to store one or more modules and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is operable to execute the one or more modules to cause the processor to receive one or more signals representing a microbe characteristic from a soil sensor. The processor is also operable to determine whether to apply an applicant (i.e., water having a concentration of a biological or a microbe therein) to a soil based upon the microbe characteristics and to initiate operation of the irrigation assembly to apply the applicant to the soil in response when the soil requires the applicant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacob L. LaRue
  • Patent number: 11382286
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for irrigation control and data management. According to a preferred embodiment, an irrigation control system may include a data collection module which receives and stores system data generated by sensors and supporting systems including irrigation, drive, weather, sensor and electrical systems of a mechanized irrigation system. According to preferred embodiments, the system preferably also includes a system control module which transmits system control instructions to system components. Additionally, the present invention also includes a display module which provides a display of graphical user interfaces embedded with system data and selectable control instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashley E. Anderson, Christopher M. Anderson
  • Patent number: 11363766
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for maintaining desired pressure levels in an irrigation system when the flow rate available to the irrigation system is reduced below the system's required flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Gerdes, John Kastl
  • Patent number: 11368207
    Abstract: The present invention provides an alternative communication path which uses a buried wired and a buried wire oscillator to transmit data between a centrally located pivot panel and an end tower control panel. According to a first preferred embodiment, a pivot panel of the present invention preferably includes a machine controller, a smart relay board, a modem, a guidance controller and a buried wire oscillator. According to a further preferred embodiment, a tower control panel of the present invention preferably includes a tower board controller, a modem, and a data antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Tracy A. Thatcher, Mark Moeller
  • Publication number: 20220170870
    Abstract: The present invention provides a testing apparatus which allows for the safe and cost-effective testing and evaluation of the heat and flame resistance of distribution pole specimens made of various types of materials such as concrete, steel and composites. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes an enclosure having an outer wall with torch ports to allow attached torches to apply flame and heat to an enclosed specimen. According to a further preferred embodiment, the enclosure includes a raised specimen support pedestal which includes a specimen support surface for supporting the enclosed specimen at a desired height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2021
    Publication date: June 2, 2022
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Ackerman, Fouad Hilmy Fouad, Aaron Schapper
  • Publication number: 20220111237
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved fire resistant distribution pole and a method of installing the fireproof distribution pole. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a hollow, tapered main body which includes an intumescent veil layer. According to a further preferred embodiment, the intumescent veil layer includes a single layer of 1-2 mm thick intumescent material which extends from substantially 1 foot below grade level to 12-18 feet above grade level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2021
    Publication date: April 14, 2022
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Paulin
  • Publication number: 20220090405
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved pole assembly. According to a first preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a first pole section which is formed by an inner shell wall surrounding a hollow inner cavity. According to a further preferred embodiment, the inner shell wall is formed as a first column of a given shape, which is formed of fiberglass reinforced polymer, and which is surrounded by a center fill layer. The center fill layer is preferably formed of SSC concrete which surrounds the inner shell wall. According to a further preferred embodiment, the present invention preferably further includes an outer shell wall which is formed as a second column of a given shape, which surrounds the center fill layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2021
    Publication date: March 24, 2022
    Applicant: VALMONT INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Fouad Hilmy Fouad, Aaron Schapper
  • Patent number: 11280105
    Abstract: A pole base for supporting light poles and the like is provided. In some embodiments, a compression connection is provided to secure a pole in a fixed, stable, and upright position. Pole bases of the present disclosure comprise a recessed pole insertion well and a central pole registration hub, electrical conduit raceways, temporary pole positioning and stabilizing hardware, and pole stabilizing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jackson D Bishop, III, Andrew Burke
  • Patent number: 11274435
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system which allows users to mount multiple pieces of equipment to a tower and it has the unique capability to adjust a steel frame to level without additional equipment. In accordance with a first preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a duel locking system that includes a taper adjusting bolt to adjustably position the frame level with the earth. According to still further aspects of the present invention, the present invention further includes attachable wall section elements which include at least upper and lower lateral spanning elements having first and securing weldments which preferably may integrally connect to the adjustable frame elements of the present invention. According to still further aspects of the present invention, the present invention preferably further includes upper and lower weldment connecting plates which are preferably connected to and extend from the upper and lower lateral spanning elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Brandon M. Chapman
  • Patent number: 11246273
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for providing an irrigation scheduling module including a graphical user interface for providing irrigation scheduling data for a given field location. According to a preferred embodiment, the irrigation scheduling module is configured to calculate and display an irrigation recommendation for a given set of forecast data. According to a further preferred embodiment, the irrigation recommendation includes a representative shape in the form of a circle which changes from a full circle to a crescent-shaped percentage of the full circle based on the field moisture status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Burgard, Jacob L. LaRue, Hiran Medeiros Moreira
  • Patent number: 11251725
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic braking system for an irrigation machine. According to an exemplary preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a drive controller which includes a power supplying circuit which signals an ON condition when a motive power request is input into the drive controller and an OFF condition when motive power is not input into the system. According to a further preferred embodiment, the present invention further includes a 3-phase induction motor connected to apply torque to a drive shaft which is connected to a least one drive wheel. According to a further preferred embodiment, the power supplying circuit supplies 480V AC of motive power to the drive motor when the drive controller signals the ON condition and 10-80V DC of non-motive power to at least one phase of the motor when the drive controller signals the OFF condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Keating Dyas, Tracy A. Thatcher
  • Publication number: 20220042570
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vibration mitigation device which includes a vertically extending housing and a reciprocating assembly coupled with and fully enclosed inside of the vertically extending housing. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the vibration mitigation device may utilize a tension spring as the biasing member while operating in a pneumatic process, an eddy current dampening process or a hybrid combination of the two dampening processes. For low amplitude, the eddy current dampening process may provide improved vibration mitigation results and for higher amplitudes, the pneumatic process may provide improved vibration mitigation results. Other exemplary embodiments include a vibration damping element that utilizes a compression spring as a biasing member for mitigating vibrations. Further exemplary embodiments provide a vibration damping element that utilizes a compression spring and a tension spring as biasing members for mitigating vibrations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2021
    Publication date: February 10, 2022
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl J. Macchietto, Richard E. Christenson, Darren E. Ingram
  • Publication number: 20210378189
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for an improved driveline coupler having a reversible saddle thereon which allows it to be configured to work with different sizes and shapes of shafts. The reversible saddle is configured on one side to work with one size of driveline shaft and configured on the opposite side to work with a different size driveline shaft so that in the field, an operator can modify the driveline coupler from use with a first size of drive shaft to a second size of drive shaft easily and quickly by turning the saddle upside down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2020
    Publication date: December 9, 2021
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore George Santiesteban
  • Publication number: 20210363709
    Abstract: Improved tub girders and related manufacturing methods are provided, such as for example for use in road construction in connection with concrete bridges. Disclosed improved tub girders may include upper flanges that extending inwardly or outwardly. Disclosed improved tub girders may be provided with camber along the length of the girders. Ends of the disclosed improved tub girders may be provided with diaphragms. Disclosed improved tub girders may include a base section including one more access ports for enabling inspection of the interior of the girders after installation. Disclosed improved tub girders may include a plurality of stud members extending upwardly from upper flanges for engaging with a concrete bridge deck. Disclosed tub girders may be providing with a coating, such as galvanized, aluminized or metalized, to fight corrosion and extend life and limit need for inspection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Guy C. Nelson
  • Patent number: 11181165
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vibration mitigation device which includes a vertically extending housing and a reciprocating assembly coupled with and fully enclosed inside of the vertically extending housing. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the vibration mitigation device may utilize a tension spring as the biasing member while operating in a pneumatic process, an eddy current dampening process or a hybrid combination of the two dampening processes. For low amplitude, the eddy current dampening process may provide improved vibration mitigation results and for higher amplitudes, the pneumatic process may provide improved vibration mitigation results. Other exemplary embodiments include a vibration damping element that utilizes a compression spring as a biasing member for mitigating vibrations. Further exemplary embodiments provide a vibration damping element that utilizes a compression spring and a tension spring as biasing members for mitigating vibrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl J. Macchietto, Richard E. Christenson, Darren E. Ingram
  • Publication number: 20210348667
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for energy absorption and vibrational dampening when attached to a vertical or horizontal structure. According to a first preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a closed housing which may preferably include an internal, curved surface. According to a further preferred embodiment, the present invention may include at least one dampening weight or sphere which may preferably be disposed within the closed housing. According to a further preferred embodiment, the dampening sphere may include internal baffling such as particles having resistance to the flow of the particles within the closed housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2021
    Publication date: November 11, 2021
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl J. Macchietto
  • Publication number: 20210345566
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for irrigation control and data management. According to a preferred embodiment, an irrigation control system may include a data collection module which receives and stores system data generated by sensors and supporting systems including irrigation, drive, weather, sensor and electrical systems of a mechanized irrigation system. According to preferred embodiments, the system preferably also includes a system control module which transmits system control instructions to system components. Additionally, the present invention also includes a display module which provides a display of graphical user interfaces embedded with system data and selectable control instructions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2021
    Publication date: November 11, 2021
    Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashley E. Anderson, Christopher M. Anderson
  • Patent number: D954743
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Hiran Medeiros Moreira, Dan Burgard, Jacob L. LaRue