Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for the stabilization of a mobile liquid tank during transportation of a liquid. Sensors feed information regarding the status and position of a liquid retained therein to a control unit which calculates expected movement of the liquid, and controls a set of pneumatic valves to adjust airsprings of a pneumatic suspension as to minimize undesirable movement of the liquid.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for the stabilization of an earth-moving apparatus, such as an earth-moving scraper. A skidplate is attached to the earth-mover by one or more inflatable airbags, such as a pneumatic suspension air-spring, which may be inflated to lower the skidplate into contact with the ground surface. The skidplate (or a skid shoe attached thereto) remains held firmly on the ground regardless of minor adjustments to the blade height, due to the “springiness” of the air bag. The skidplate can be retracted when use is not desired, by deflation of the air bags. One or more motion sensors and a control unit may be included, allowing bounce to be detected before it is visible to the operator. The control unit may cause the airbags to inflate as needed to stabilize the earth-moving apparatus.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for controlling power-hop in a heavy vehicle, e.g., an earth-moving apparatus, such as an earth-moving scraper.

Abstract: Hydraulic systems for controlling movement of an apron and a bucket of earth moving apparatuses are disclosed. The hydraulic system includes a hydraulic fluid supply, a hydraulic cylinder for moving the apron, a hydraulic cylinder for moving the bucket and a valve for controlling flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinders. The hydraulic system includes another valve for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinders. An earth moving apparatus having a bucket and an apron configured with the hydraulic system is also disclosed. Methods for controlling movement of the bucket and the apron are also disclosed. An earth moving apparatus having an ejector wall for removing soil from the bucket is described. A linkage structure for reducing the force required to move the ejector wall is incorporated in the earth moving apparatus. A substantially, vertical oriented hydraulic cylinder for moving the ejector wall is also described.

Abstract: Devices and methods for air-assisted loading of soil in an earth-moving apparatus are disclosed. One aspect of a device includes a source of a current of air and at least one conduit for directing the current of air towards soil moved by the earth-moving apparatus. The device is configured to be operatively connected to the earth-moving apparatus. An earth-moving apparatus is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame having opposing sides, supported by at least two ground-engaging wheels, and a bucket having a floor and a pair of upstanding sidewalls. A cutting blade may be attached to the bucket or disposed between the opposing sides of the frame. An air supply system for delivering a current of air to soil moved by the earth-moving apparatus is also included. Methods for loading soil into an earth-moving apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A tank for fluids and processes for manufacturing the same. The tank includes a first end plate and a second end plate, wherein the end plates are substantially planar. The tank also includes an interior wall, wherein a periphery of the interior wall comprises a flange. A sheet is attached to a periphery of the first end plate or the second end plate, and another portion of the sheet is attached to the flange by a seam located on an exterior of the tank. A first end and a second end of the sheet each define a portion of the first surface of the tank, and a portion of the sheet between the first end and the second end define a portion of a second, opposing surface of the tank.

Abstract: Device and methods for air assisted loading of soil in an earth moving apparatus are disclosed. One aspect of a device includes a source of a current of air and at least one conduit for directing the current of air towards soil moved by the earth moving apparatus. The device is configured to be operatively connected to the earth moving apparatus. An earth moving apparatus is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame having opposing sides, supported by at least two ground engaging wheels, and a bucket having a floor and a pair of upstanding side walls. A cutting blade may be attached to the bucket or disposed between the opposing sides of the frame. An air supply system for delivering a current of air to soil moved by the earth moving apparatus is also included. Methods for loading soil into an earth moving apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: Devices and methods for air assisted loading of soil in an earth moving apparatus are disclosed. One aspect of a device includes a source of a current of air and at least one conduit for directing the current of air towards soil moved by the earth moving apparatus. The device is configured to be operatively connected to the earth moving apparatus. An earth moving apparatus is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame having opposing sides, supported by at least two ground engaging wheels, and a bucket having a floor and a pair of upstanding side walls. A cutting blade may be attached to the bucket or disposed between the opposing sides of the frame. An air supply system for delivering a current of air to soil moved by the earth moving apparatus is also included. Methods for loading soil into an earth moving apparatus are also disclosed.