Heating Patents (Class 404/79)
  • Patent number: 7560673
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling agricultural pests in soil using microwave energy. The apparatus is an agricultural implement having a means for directing a layer of soil from the ground onto a conveyor which carries the soil through a microwave energy application area, and then disperses the soil back onto the ground. The microwave energy heats the soil to a desired temperature which destroys weeds, seeds, and insects in the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: George W. Wall
  • Publication number: 20090169901
    Abstract: A method for bonding together an existing substrate layer and a pavement layer, such that a strong adhesive bond is formed by using a tack coat, provided by an asphalt emulsion, in between the layers as the bond coat. The tack coat layer is a low-tracking coating which cures quickly such that the pavement layer may be applied to the substrate, hours to days after the emulsion is applied to the substrate. The asphalt emulsion comprises at least a first phase of from about 30% to about 70% of an asphalt composition, about 30% to about 70% water, and about 0.1% to about 3.0% emulsifying agent, stabilizer and/or additives, or 0.1% to about 30% if polymeric or other additives are also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: BLACKLIDGE EMULSIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Roy B. Blacklidge
  • Patent number: 7448825
    Abstract: A method for recycling in place an asphalt mixture layer of a paved road continuously, while moving a self-propelled vehicle system, which comprises a step of heating and softening the asphalt mixture layer, a step of scraping and breaking said hot and softened asphalt mixture layer and keeping the softened mixture at a temperature sufficient not to form an aggregate, to prepare an asphalt mixture having a single-grained structure, a sieving step of classifying said asphalt mixture having a single-grained structure into a plurality of grain size groups, a step of designing mix proportions for converting said asphalt mixture to a recycled asphalt mixture by the use of said plurality of grain size groups classified, a step of mixing uniformly said recycled asphalt mixtures having designed mix proportions, and a step of spreading and compacting said recycled asphalt mixtures having been mixed uniformly, to thereby form a recycled asphalt mixtures layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignees: Green Arm Co., Ltd., Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Kasahara, Shunsuke Ushio, Kojiro Ogata, Hiroshi Inamitsu, Fumio Goto, Tomoyuki Abe, Hiroaki Irie, Isami Fujii, Kazuo Onoda, Hideo Ikeda, Eisuke Nagai, Atsuki Gomi, Masaki Tsunabuchi
  • Patent number: 7413375
    Abstract: A system for working a paved surface is disclosed in one aspect of the invention as including a water deposition device for increasing the moisture content of a paved surface; a microwave generator for applying microwaves to the moisture content to heat and thereby soften the paved surface; and a degradation element for working the paved surface. In certain embodiments, the apparatus may also include a surface preparation device to fracture, puncture, mar, scrape, or scarify the paved surface prior to increasing the moisture content, and a containment device to substantially restrict the escape of water as it is deposited onto the paved surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventor: David R. Hall
  • Patent number: 7332118
    Abstract: The vibration damping system, especially for use in the damping of vibrations e.g. from trains, tramcars, other traffic and damping of ground borne vibrations in general, comprises an anti-vibration plate in the form of a plate having a first and a second major surface. The anti-vibration plate comprises mineral fibers, a non-foamed polymeric material and/or a polymeric foam. The anti-vibration plate can further be provided with one or more hollow spaces, i.e. cavities. The anti-vibration plate is obtainable by a method comprising the step of subjecting an area of the opposite surface of the plate to a compression treatment in one or more steps, which compression treatment is sufficient to reduce the static and/or dynamic stiffness of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventor: John Asmussen
  • Patent number: 7300225
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for heating hot mix asphalt (HMA), via collecting fumes from HMA while the HMA is on-board a vehicle and in motion within the vehicle, and igniting the HMA with engine exhaust and using the heat of combustion of the HMA to heat HMA, such as via the floor of a re-mix machine or paver which is capable of churning and mixing the HMA which increases emission of HMA fumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Cedarapids, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph E. Musil
  • Patent number: 7252455
    Abstract: A multi axial asphalt heater for re-heating and recycling of old and new asphalt for permanent joint free repairs and restorations. It is possible to adjust the heating elements mechanically up and down off the asphalt surface with the lever arm mechanism. The provision of rotational movement of the heating elements permits the device to be retracted into a transport configuration. Forward and reverse motion of the heating elements permits a graduate heating process to be performed. The fold-up design with radially shaped adjustable hinges provide various angularity adjustments not only for compact convenience but also for establishing specific heat clearances, avoiding shut down delays and overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Gregory Alan Larsen
  • Patent number: 7223048
    Abstract: A detectable pavement warning assembly includes a web having a plurality of projections attached to one another by linear connectors, a planar cover with a series of apertures for receiving the projections therethrough and an adhesive sheet. In use a rigid substrate such as a sidewalk is selected, and a primer is applied. The web, cover and adhesive sheet all pre-assembled are placed on the primed substrate. Next, the warning assembly is heated with an open flame to soften and fuse the pavement warning assembly with the primed substrate. The projections will remain extended sufficiently above the cover to provide a warning to pedestrians that walk thereon, such as when approaching a traffic area or other hazard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Flint Trading, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Greer, Christopher J. Corbett
  • Patent number: 7217062
    Abstract: A screed for a paving machine has at least a base portion having an associated heating element connected to a heating element controller. An extension screed portion is connector to the base screed portion and has a respective heating element connectable to the heating element controller. A temperature sensor is associated with each of the base and extension screed portions and a device is adapted to controllably connect selected ones of the base and extension screed temperature sensors to the heating element controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc
    Inventors: Francesco Pisano, Federico B. Rio, Davide Govoni, Ezio Martelli, Simone Zaghi
  • Patent number: 7192215
    Abstract: An apparatus for erasing a road marking on a road lane comprising a chassis adapted to travel over the road lane; a heating source mounted to the chassis for directly or indirectly applying heat to the road marking; and a positively driven rotatable brush mounted to the chassis. The brush has bristles contactable with the road marking and adapted for removing it, when heated, from the road. Indirect heating of the road marking can be accomplished by first heating the bristles of the brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Zamir Manor
  • Patent number: 7052202
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for forming a coherent refractory mass on the surface of a road wherein one or more non-combustible materials are mixed with one or more metallic combustible powders and an oxidizer, igniting the mixture so that the combustible metallic particles react in an exothermic manner with the oxidizer and release sufficient heat to form a coherent mass under the action of the heat of combustion and projecting this mass against the surface of the road so that the mass adheres durably to the surface of the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: George Jay Lichtblau
  • Patent number: 7052203
    Abstract: The invention relates to a surfacing structure for traffic areas and for surfaces of structures, which has a substructure located on the base of the surfacing and has a superstructure, which covers the latter and is comprised, at least in part, of concrete, sepecially asphaltic concrete. The substructure comprises at least one lattice work extending along the surfacing and having a number of strips, which intersect while forming a mesh, consist of high strength fiber billets with different tensile E-moduli, and which are interconnected with material fit or in a non-positive manner. A thermally removable covering can be applied to at least one surface of the lattice work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Joseph Scherer
  • Patent number: 7033104
    Abstract: A paving method is provided that includes applying a thermoplastic material to a surface to be paved, covering the thermoplastic material with a layer of aggregate (precoated or otherwise), passing a heater above the aggregate and thermoplastic material, and at least partially embedding the aggregate in the thermoplastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Manhole Adjusting Contractors
    Inventor: John Corcoran
  • Patent number: 6998010
    Abstract: This application relates to a method and apparatus for heating a surface marking, such as a thermoplastic pattern in an asphalt substrate. The marking may be selected for functional or decorative purposes. The method involves gradually applying heat to the marking to avoid scorching and to ensure a consistent bond with the underlying substrate, even in the case of markings having a very large surface area. In one embodiment the method a portable heating apparatus is provided having infrared heaters mounted for reciprocal movement in a travel path periodically passing over the marking and the underlying substrate. The heating method permits direct visual monitoring of the work site to achieve optimum adhesion of the marking to the asphalt or other substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Integrated Paving Concepts Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Carl Wiley
  • Patent number: 6988849
    Abstract: A pothole repair machine utilizes hot mix asphalt material to fill the pothole being repaired. The machine includes a heating apparatus for raising the temperature of the surface of the road surrounding the pothole to soften the material for bonding with the material to be inserted into the pothole. A hot tack spray is then placed onto the surface of the pothole before hot mix material is deposited into the pothole cavity. Before depositing the hot mix material, a sensing mechanism determines the depth of the pothole and causes an adjustment of the height of screening doors to effect the uncompressed height of the filling material at a predetermined percentage of overfill before a vibrating roller compresses the filling material to the level of the surrounding roadway. A plurality of screening doors extends along the transverse width of the machine, each door being adjustably controlled by a depth sensor member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: Harold M. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 6979146
    Abstract: In order to melt snow and prevent freezing without consuming energy wastefully and to monitor a road surface state remotely, a road surface sensor includes: a rotating stand provided so as to be reciprocatingly rotatable upward on the road surface; a snow-melting/freezing heat quantity measurement dummy road surface having an electric heater buried therein and to use as a reference road surface for heat quantity measurement to derive a melting heat quantity for snow falling on the surface and a heat quantity required for freezing prevention; a reference light irradiating/reflected light receiving device that is attached so as to be rotatable with the rotating stand; a space reflected light receiving device; a non-contact road temperature measuring device; a non-contact snow cover depth measuring device; a road surface image pickup device; and a moisture sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignees: Yamada Technic Corporation, Japan Highway Public Corporation
    Inventors: Tadayuki Yamada, Kouji Yamamoto, Makoto Goto
  • Patent number: 6969214
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for forming a coherent refractory mass on the surface of a road wherein one or more non-combustible materials are mixed with one or more metallic combustible powders and an oxidizer, igniting the mixture so that the combustible metallic particles react in an exothermic manner with the oxidizer and release sufficient heat to form a coherent mass under the action of the heat of combustion and projecting this mass against the surface of the road so that the mass adheres durably to the surface of the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: George Jay Lichtblau
  • Patent number: 6846354
    Abstract: The invention describes a process for preparing a warm mix asphalt composition by mixing an aggregate grain material with a soft binder, and adding a hard binder to the mixed aggregate grain material. The hard binder is foamed in a foaming process before it is introduced to the mixed grained aggregate material. A system for preparing the warm mix asphalt composition comprising a drying drum for heating and drying the aggregate component, a mixing mill for mixing the asphalt components and a mix storage silo, where the system also includes foam production facilities for foaming the hard binder before introduction to the mixing mill, is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Kolo Veidekke A.S.
    Inventors: Olle R. Larsen, Carl . Robertus
  • Publication number: 20040244646
    Abstract: The invention describes a process for preparing a warm mix asphalt composition by mixing an aggregate grain material with a soft binder, and adding a hard binder to the mixed aggregate grain material. The hard binder is foamed in a foaming process before it is introduced to the mixed grained aggregate material. A system for preparing the warm mix asphalt composition comprising a drying drum for heating and drying the aggregate component, a mixing mill for mixing the asphalt components and a mix storage silo, where the system also includes foam production facilities for foaming the hard binder before introduction to the mixing mill, is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: KOLO VEIDEKKE A.S.
    Inventors: Olle R. Larsen, Carl Robertus
  • Patent number: 6825444
    Abstract: A heated bridge deck (20) uses electrodes (24, 26) embedded within conductive concrete and connected to a power source to remove snow and ice accumulation. A cement-based mixture containing optimal amounts of conductive materials is molded into pre-formed slabs (22) placed atop the paved surface of a bridge deck. Alternatively, the conductive concrete may be cast in place on top of an existing bridge deck. A control unit with temperature and moisture sensors may be coupled to the heated bridge deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Board of Regents of University of Nebraska
    Inventors: Christopher Y. Tuan, Sherif Yehia, Bing Chen, Lim Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6758630
    Abstract: A snow and ice melting system for roads including a system of heating coils disposed below an upper surface of a roadway. The system of coils are arranged in a serpentine configuration whereby a majority of a surface area of the roadway is in contact with the heating coils. A system of laser heaters are disposed within side surfaces of curbs of the roadway in a spaced relationship. The laser heaters direct a ray of heat over the upper surface of the roadway. A weather sensitive activation sensor is secured to a top surface of a traffic light. The activation sensor is in communication with the system of heating coils and the system of laser heaters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Marlene Vega
  • Patent number: 6742959
    Abstract: Disclosed is a trailer which is self-propelled via a powered tongue jack and which optionally includes a light-weight, high-efficiency asphalt heater. The trailer is moved long distances, such as to and from work sites, using a towing vehicle, in conventional fashion. When at the work site (or storage site), the tongue jack is lowered to support the trailer in a generally horizontal position, and, by virtue of a powered jack wheel, can be used to position the trailer easily, quietly, and confidently, in either the forward or reverse direction. The jack is powered by any conventional means, including an ac or dc electric motor or an internal combustion engine. A reversible, variable-speed, dc electric motor powered by a conventional 12 Volt battery supply is preferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: DRS Limited
    Inventor: David R. Strassman
  • Publication number: 20040057793
    Abstract: A method for accelerating the drying rate of a ceramic bead-containing thermosetting road marking composition admixture when deposited onto a road surface is described. The method comprising heating ceramic beads to a temperature from about 100° to about 500° F. The heated ceramic beads are then admixed with a liquid thermosetting road marking composition to form a substantially homogeneous admixture. This substantially homogeneous admixture is then deposited onto the road surface where it drys at an accelerated rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Vincent R. Gurzo, Darrell L. Thompson, Zhongming Wang
  • Publication number: 20040057794
    Abstract: A paving method is provided that includes applying a thermoplastic material to a surface to be paved, covering the thermoplastic material with a layer of aggregate (precoated or otherwise), passing a heater above the aggregate and thermoplastic material, and at least partially embedding the aggregate in the thermoplastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: John Corcoran
  • Patent number: 6554531
    Abstract: An apparatus for drying and compacting earthen materials such as soil which includes a motorized tractor vehicle with a microwave applicator attached to the vehicle. The microwave applicator includes a microwave permeable drum for rolling over the ground surface to be dried and a microwave heater element in the form of a magnetron tube coaxially disposed in the drum for emitting and directing microwaves downwardly through the drum into underlying soil to be dried. A microwave nonpermeable shield covers over side and upper surfaces of the drum and further includes a microwave reflective inner lining for reflecting microwaves downwardly into the underlying earth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Brian K. Bodish
  • Patent number: 6371689
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for heating an asphalt-paved road surface by forcing gases heated by a heater against that road surface and then returning those gases to the heater for reheating and recirculation, wherein the temperature of the returning gases is measured by a temperature sensor, and the heater is automatically adjusted so that the temperature of the gases being directed against the road surface is automatically decreased as the temperature of the returning gases increases. This prevents damage to the asphalt and premature rupturing of the road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Dynaire Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas William Wiley
  • Patent number: 6334735
    Abstract: A controller is for a heating system of a paving screed including a screed plate. The heating system is connected with the screed and configured to transfer thermal energy to the screed plate and includes an actuator configured to adjust thermal energy output of the heating system. The controller includes a temperature sensor connectable with the screed and configured to sense temperature of the screed plate. The sensor is also configured to generate electrical signals proportional to sensed temperature. An electrical logic circuit is electrically connected with the sensor and is electrically connectable with the actuator. The logic circuit is configured to compare a temperature signal from the sensor with a desired temperature value and to automatically operate the actuator such that the actuator adjusts thermal energy output of the heating system so as to maintain screed temperature about the desired temperature value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Blaw Knox Construction Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy D. Williams, Michael J. Worley, Brian V. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6227762
    Abstract: A method of preparing an asphalt edge for joining and a two part joint heating system for use in carrying out the method. In it most basic form, the method of the present invention includes the steps of placing a first layer of asphalt in a roadway and allowing the first layer of asphalt to cool to a temperature below a predetermined minimum bonding temperature. The surface of the joining area of the first layer is then preheated to a temperature above the minimum bonding temperature but below the ignition temperature of the asphalt. The remainder of the joining area of the first layer is then allowed to absorb the heat from the surface. After a predetermined period of time is allowed for absorption of heat, the surface of the joining area of the first layer of asphalt is again heated to a temperature below the ignition temperature of the asphalt and the second layer of asphalt is placed adjacent to the first layer such that a joint is formed between the first layer and the second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Wesley Van Velsor
  • Patent number: 6220782
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for altering an aggregate gradation mixture of an asphalt concrete mixture. The apparatus includes a heater for heating a layer of existing roadway materials, a milling and mixing auger for milling the heated layer of existing roadway materials and a hopper and conveyor for providing a predetermined amount of treated new usable aggregates to the milling and auger for mixing with the heated layer of existing roadway materials in order to produce a new asphalt concrete mixture. The auger including a plurality of milling bits extending therearound for receiving the predetermined amount of aggregates and mixing them with the milled layer of existing roadway materials, the milling bits are slanted to direct the aggregates received thereby and milled layer to a center line of the apparatus. A second auger is positioned along the center line of the apparatus and behind the auger for further mixing the new asphalt concrete mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Larry A. Yates
  • Patent number: 6217252
    Abstract: Flame-spray transportation surface marking method employing a binder material selected from the group consisting of acrylic polymers and copolymers, olefin polymers and copolymers having a number average molecular weight greater than about 10,000, urethane polymers and copolymers, curable epoxy resins, ester polymers and copolymers, and blends thereof, together with a particulate topcoat or particulate filler selected from the group consisting of reflective elements, skid-resistant particles, magnetizable particles, and mixtures thereof, wherein the binder adheres directly to the transportation surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Howard R. Tolliver, Suman K. Patel, Thomas V. Kusilek, Nagraj Koneripalli
  • Patent number: 6186700
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing and applying a novel pavement and patch material for roadways, driveways, walkways, patch for potholes and like surfaces, including the steps of reducing recycled asphalt roof waste to granules, adding aggregate and other solid recyclable materials to the granules, adding rejuvenating oil, adding emulsifier, adding asphalt concrete oil, adding anti-strip additives, adding liquid silicone, mixing the composition, heating the composition, applying the composition to the roadway or the like and compacting a new paving material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: James S. Omann
  • Patent number: 6033147
    Abstract: Top layers of asphalt surfacing are laid in hot laying method in one work cycle. A first layer of a first asphalt production type hot is placed on a surface to be covered. Simultaneously with the first layer is placed a second layer of a second asphalt production type different from the first production type hot on top of the first layer. Owing to the simultaneous laying of two different and hot on hot asphalt layers from delivered mixture from an asphalt plant, thermal potential is increased and cooling delayed, therefore a considerable improvement in properties of theses two asphalt layers is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Elk Richter
  • Patent number: 6012870
    Abstract: A portable apparatus is shown for transporting heated pavement repair materials. The apparatus has a heat chamber with an enclosed interior. A mixing chamber is contained within the enclosed interior of the heat chamber and has an inlet for receiving pavement repair materials and an outlet for discharging mixed and heated product. Either a dry radiant heat source or a liquid heat transfer source can be utilized to heat the mixing chamber. The apparatus is used to dispense a pavement repair material which is aggregate free, which does not require compaction and which is self-leveling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: H.D. Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold W. Dillingham
  • Patent number: 5988935
    Abstract: A portable device is shown for transporting asphalt repair materials for use in repairing potholes in asphalt pavements. The device has a body with a hopper compartment for transporting and dispensing asphalt mix materials. A dry, radiant heat source is located below the hopper compartment and heats the asphalt mix. Tack oils are held and dispensed from a separate tack oil tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: H.D. Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold W. Dillingham
  • Patent number: 5899630
    Abstract: A paving machine employs a screed heating system using heat from the exhaust system to heat indirectly the screed to the desired temperature. A heat exchange medium is heated by the exhaust system in a first heat exchanger and is then conveyed to a second heat exchanger where it heats the screed. Measures are taken to supply additional heat to the heat exchange medium as may be required to achieve the required heat transfer in the second heat exchanger. The system operates under low pressure and is thus simpler, less expensive, and less likely to fail than high-pressure systems. Preferably, the heat exchange medium is continuously circulated between the first and second heat exchangers in a closed-loop to minimize the amount of heat exchange medium required and to simplify the system. The system is also preferably designed to permit movement of the screed relative to the remainder of the paving machine and to permit flexing of the screed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Don Brock
  • Patent number: 5895171
    Abstract: A process for heating an asphalt surface and an apparatus therefor. The process comprises the steps of: igniting in a burner (30) a combustible mixture comprised of a fuel (50) and oxygen (60) to produce a hot gas; and feeding the hot gas to an enclosure having a radiative face (200) disposed above the asphalt surface (280). The asphalt surface heating apparatus comprises a hot gas producing burner (30) and an enclosure (25) comprising an inlet (120) for receiving hot gas from the burner and a radiative face (200) having a plurality of apertures. The apertures in the radiative face are of a dimension such that the hot gas: (i) heats the radiative face to provide radiation heat transfer to the asphalt surface; and (ii) passes through the apertures to provide convection heat transfer to the asphalt surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Martec Recycling Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick C. Wiley, Mostafa Joharifard
  • Patent number: 5895172
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, an automatic screed temperature control is disclosed. The control senses the screed temperature and compares the screed temperature to a lower set point. In response to the screed temperature being less than the lower set point, the control causes fuel to dispense into the combustion chamber and subsequently causes the fuel to ignite in order to heat the screed. The screed is heated until the screed temperature becomes greater than an upper set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Conrad G. Grembowicz, Lee E. Huffman, Wade D. Samson
  • Patent number: 5865563
    Abstract: A method for blending and windrowing hot plant mix asphalt which has been deposited onto a roadway in preparation for paving the roadway utilizes a V-shaped plow formed by a first plowing member extending in a first direction, and a second plowing member extending in a second direction, with rearward ends of each of the first and second plowing member being connected at a vertex and the opposite forward ends being spaced apart to form the open side of the V-shaped plow. The V-shaped plow further comprises an opening in the vertex and a movable gate for adjusting the size of the opening in the vertex. The V-shaped plow is further provided with an attachment device for attaching the V-shaped plow to an earth moving implement, such as a front end loader. Movement of the V-shaped plow along the roadway causes the hot asphalt to be thoroughly blended and deposited from the opening into a perfect windrow having the desired amount of asphalt for paving the roadway at issue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Larry Russell Bonds
  • Patent number: 5829914
    Abstract: A method of repairing asphalt or concrete surfaces such as roads and parking lots which have developed pot holes therein. The hole is cleaned of loose debris, lined with a water barrier sheet, provided with a reinforcing mesh, and filled with hot asphalt mix. The asphalt mix is compacted by a roller which has been chilled by exposure to a cryogenic substance, such as liquid nitrogen. Alternatively, the cryogenic substance directly contacts the asphalt mix. Preferably, the reinforcing mesh is further reinforced by flattened rods woven through the mesh or alternatively, laid thereon, with the rods oriented at angles of approximately forty-five degrees to linear structural members of the mesh. The water barrier, reinforcing mesh, and reinforcing rods are preferably formed from recycled plastic materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Raymond Wells
  • Patent number: 5762447
    Abstract: In order to provide an integral whole unit for continuously measuring the quantity of heat needed to melt snow lying on a road, and prevent freezing of the road; and for controlling a supply of heat to the road for melting the snow lying on the road and for preventing the freezing of the road, it uses a road-simulated device. The road-simulated device is put outdoors while it is snowing, and it is heated and kept at a temperature of -0.degree. C., thus keeping the road-simulated surface free of snows, and preventing the freezing of the road-simulated surface. In this condition the thermal energy required to keep the simulated road surface unfrozen is determined, and every control variable is determined on the basis of this so determined thermal energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Kohtaro Hashimoto
    Inventors: Kunio Hachiki, Junichi Yamazaki, Tadayuki Yamada, Satoshi Yasumoto, Masaaki Hagiwara
  • Patent number: 5618132
    Abstract: A process for resurfacing asphalt roads, includes the step of spraying a thin film of heated asphaltic material onto the road surface, and then laying an aggregate layer on the film while the film is still hot. The asphaltic material is preferably composed of from about sixty (60) to ninety-five (95) parts asphalt, about 40 to 5 parts waste oil, about one-half (1/2) to one and one-half (11/2) parts finely divided latex, and about one-half (1/2) part anti-stripping agent. The material is heated to a temperature between two hundred twenty (220) degrees Fahrenheit and two hundred fifty (250) degrees Fahrenheit to achieve flowability on the road surface. Advantageously, the process can be carried out without air pollution problems or material runoff problems. The process is environmentally friendly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventors: Roland Fogg, Jeffrey MacDonald
  • Patent number: 5607254
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, an automatic screed temperature control is disclosed. The control senses the screed temperature and compares the screed temperature to a lower set point. In response to the screed temperature being less than the lower set point, the control causes fuel to dispense into the combustion chamber and subsequently causes the fuel to ignite in order to heat the screed. The screed is heated until the screed temperature becomes greater than an upper set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Conrad G. Grembowicz, Lee E. Huffman, Wade D. Samson
  • Patent number: 5580211
    Abstract: A transportation system is adapted for transporting and removing roll on/roll off containers from a trailer surface. A tractor having a fifth wheel is used to tow the trailer. The tractor carries a supplemental platform, which is placed over the fifth wheel area to permit transfer of a container from the trailer onto the platform of the towing tractor for transportation of the container to a delivery site. The container and tractor also include mating members to permit raising one end of the container relative to the other to facilitate dumping of the contents from the container while it is carried on the supplemental platform on the tractor. A specific form of container, particularly suitable for use in the transportation system, is a double walled, insulated container for carrying hot mix asphalt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: William F. Mengel
  • Patent number: 5566914
    Abstract: A sign support stake may be combined with a jack for extraction of the stake. The sign support stake may also provide a heater to melt frozen earth. The sign support can be provided with releasable attachment means to the support to avoid removal by vandals and may be provided with level indicating means to assist achieving vertical orientation for a driven stake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: John E. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5560734
    Abstract: A method of laying a bitumastic simulated paved surface includes spreading a layer of hot bitumastic material on a foundation layer, the bitumastic material including a thermoplastic rubber copolymer material, filler and reinforcing fibres, allowing the bitumastic material to cool and set, heating the surface of the bitumastic material to soften it for moulding purposes, and imprinting the softened surface with a pattern of grooves to provide simulated gaps between simulated slabs of paving. A layer of bitumastic material has a simulated paved surface, including bitumen, hydrocarbon resin, block copolymer rubber, fillers and reinforcing fibre material, and a groove pattern is impressed into the upper surface of the layer in a pattern to simulate the joints in a paved surface. A road speed control hump of material, includes a hump of material applied to the road, the material including a mixture having rubber chips bound together with a bituminous binder, and a layer applied to the surface of the hump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: Roadtex Limited
    Inventors: James McIntosh, Graham J. Lucas
  • Patent number: 5472292
    Abstract: A process for recycling an asphaltic surface. The process comprises: (a) providing an asphaltic surface having an upper surface for recycling; (b) rupturing the upper surface to a depth of at least about 1.5 inches to provide a ruptured upper surface; (c) heating and mixing the ruptured upper surface on the asphalt surface to a temperature in the range of from about 100.degree. to about 350.degree. F. to produce a heated, ruptured upper surface which is substantially free of moisture; and (d) pressing the heated, ruptured upper surface to provide a recycled pavement surface. An apparatus adapted for carrying out the process is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: McLean Ventures Corporation
    Inventor: Patrick C. Wiley
  • Patent number: 5395179
    Abstract: A snow melting device which includes a plurality of heating bodies arranged at intervals perpendicularly to the direction of traffic running and pedestrians walking on the road, each heating body including a planar heat generating element having at least a load bearing side thereof coated with a protective layer and having a terminal for connection to a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Assignee: Nihon Kyoryo Kabushikikaisha
    Inventor: Tetuho Kotani
  • Patent number: 5340396
    Abstract: A method for the preparation of asphalt concrete from organic contaminated soils such as petroleum contaminated soils in batch mix processing, with reduced levels of pollution emissions. The resultant asphalt concrete is also either strengthened or the asphalt content can be reduced without loss of strength. The contaminated soil is added to superheated aggregate (380.degree.-450.degree. F.) in a closed mixer, in amounts ranging from 5-25% by weight of total aggregate, and the combination is mixed to uniformity, prior to addition of the asphalt cement binder. A conveying system for the cold wet contaminated soil is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: New Jersey Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Namunu J. Meegoda
  • Patent number: 5257876
    Abstract: A method for constructing an asphalted road having a heating pipe laid thereunder, which comprises laying wire netting on a roadbed, placing a heating plastic pipe on the wire netting, fixing the pipe thereto and depositing asphalt concrete thereon, characterized by that a cooling medium is allowed to flow in the plastic pipe laid on the roadbed, and asphalt concrete is deposited while the inside of the plastic pipe is kept under a pressurized condition of 0.05 to 5 kg/cm.sup.2 by the cooling medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Yuka Industrial Products Corporation
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Takahashi, Takeo Fukuda
  • Patent number: 5245149
    Abstract: Process for the accelerated drying of cement mixes includes the application to the cement mixes of electromagnetic microwaves. The device for the accelerated drying of cement mixes includes a chamber in the form of a tunnel, defined by a supporting framework in which are accommodated cement mixes, preferably on a casting bed, and microwave generator, in the form of a plurality of magnetrons supported by vertically adjustable cross members. The magnetrons are provided with telescopingly adjustable waveguides having an outlet in the chamber, and the supporting framework is slidable on a track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignee: Immobiliare Centro Nord S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mario Pinna, Sergio Lai