Abstract: An automatic riveting apparatus is improved by providing at least one sensor on a pressure foot plate or at an interface between the pressure foot plate and a pressure foot bushing of the apparatus for generating a signal indicative of force transmitted between the pressure foot plate and the pressure foot bushing. For example, the at least one sensor may include a strain gauge or other type of sensor for measuring deflection of the pressure foot plate, or it may include load cell(s) for measuring force at the interface between the pressure foot plate and the pressure foot bushing. A control system of the apparatus may be configured to execute one or more control functions based on a value of the sensor signal or signals. The control functions may adjust machine operation commands or trigger a safety mode based at least in part on the sensor signal.

Abstract: A solids sifting apparatus comprising a bucket assembly comprised of a back wall and a bucket framework joined to the back wall and extending forwardly therefrom. The bucket framework defines a lateral side wall comprised of a plurality of openings, and a forward perimeter defining a front opening. The apparatus is further comprised of a rotational assembly comprising a mounting fixture comprising at least one attachment feature, a rotatable driven member joined to the back wall of the bucket assembly, a rotatable driving member coupled to the rotatable driven member; and a rotary drive power source operatively connected to the rotatable driving member and joined to the mounting fixture. The mounting fixture may include attachment features. A first attachment feature may comprise an upper lip extending rearwardly and downwardly from a mating plate, with second and third attachment features comprising first and second brackets extending outwardly from the mating plate.

Abstract: A ground clearing apparatus comprising a box member comprised of a framework having an upper edge, first and second side edges, and a lower edge. A plurality of base teeth protrude downwardly from the lower edge. The apparatus further comprises a grapple including a first grapple arm hingeably attached to the box member, a second grapple arm hingeably attached to the box member, and a cross member joined to a distal ends of the first and second grapple arms. A plurality of grapple teeth extend outwardly from the cross member. The grapple is movable from a closed position in which the grapple teeth are interspersed with the base teeth, to an open position in which the grapple teeth are separated from the base teeth.