Abstract: A paving machine is described. The paving machine includes a powertrain with a power unit. The power unit may include a diesel generator and a battery. The powertrain may also include one or more drivetrains. The drivetrains may include a hydraulic drivetrain and an electric drivetrain. The drivetrains may receive power from the power unit for supplying power to actuators of the hydraulic drivetrain and the electric drivetrain. The paving machine may be a curb-forming machine including the battery, the hydraulic drivetrain, and the electric drivetrain. The hydraulic drivetrain of the curb-forming machine may include a cylinder, crawler, steering assembly, and auger, and the electric drivetrain may include a vibrator. The paving machine may also include a number of other types of paving machines. Where the paving machine includes the hydraulic drivetrain, a buffer may be provided to ensure sufficient hydraulic power in response to demand changes.

Abstract: A method of forming an opening in an existing brick wall comprises inserting at least one expandable element in the course of bricks above the top of the intended opening, to and expanding the element or elements to exert a horizontal force in the course of bricks. The tool comprises a pair of parallel pressure plates, a cam element between the plates, ratchet lever means for rotating the cam element, and ratchet and pawl means for latching the cam element. Expansion plates maybe used for wide joints.