CATERPILLAR PAVING PRODUCTS INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160137422 | Cold Planer Folding Conveyor - A foldable conveyor includes a rocker mechanism and actuator coupled to first and second conveyor sections, pivotably connected by a pivotal coupling to pivot the second conveyor section between deployed and stowed positions. The rocker mechanism includes first and second pivotably coupled links pivotably coupled to each other and the first and second conveyor sections, and a mechanical advantage amplifier secured with the first link. The actuator is coupled to the mechanical advantage amplifier such that extension of the actuator moves the second conveyor section to a stowed position below the first conveyor section. | 05-19-2016 |
20160109858 | Machine Alert When Stopping on Hot Asphalt - An alert system in equipment used in an asphalt paving environment, such as a compactor, signals an operator when the equipment is stopped on hot asphalt, potentially over-compacting the area where the equipment is located. The alert system includes a surface temperature sensor so that the alert is only activated when there is a risk of over-compaction because the asphalt is still above a threshold temperature. The alert system may also include a timer so that the operator is not signaled during routine stopping associated with changing direction during compacting operations. | 04-21-2016 |
20160102439 | OPERATOR PLATFORM ADJUSTING MECHANISM FOR MACHINES - A paving machine is disclosed that includes a tractor, a screed, and an operator platform. The screed is coupled to the tractor and is located behind the tractor. The operator platform is movably coupled to the tractor and has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the operator platform is located at least partially above the screed, and in the second position, the operator platform is located behind the screed. | 04-14-2016 |
20160102437 | Modular Compactor Frame Construction - A modular compactor includes a frame assembly having a first motive section including at least one first wheel, a second motive section including at least one second wheel, and a central ballast section including ballast. The ballast provides weight to the frame assembly to provide a desired compacting force. A first coupling arrangement secures the first motive section to the central ballast section, and a second coupling arrangement secures the second motive section to the central ballast section. | 04-14-2016 |
20160101722 | LIGHT ACTUATION SYSTEM FOR MACHINES - A cold planer is disclosed herein. The cold planer includes a frame, a platform, an operator station, a ladder, a platform and stair illumination device, an operator-station illumination device, a forward keypad, a rearward keypad, a timer, and a controller. The platform and stair illumination device illuminates the platform and the ladder. The operator-station illumination device illuminates the operator station. The forward keypad includes first control buttons, which generates a first signal, upon actuation. The rearward keypad includes second control buttons, which generates a second signal, upon actuation. The controller is adapted to receive the first signal and second signal, correspondingly activate the platform and stair illumination device and the operator-station illumination device, set the timer to a predetermined period of time and deactivate the stair illumination device and the operator station illumination device when the predetermined period of time elapses. | 04-14-2016 |
20160076206 | SKIRT SYSTEM FOR MACHINE AND METHOD THEREOF - A compacting machine is provided. The compacting machine includes a compacting member configured to engage a ground surface. The compacting machine also includes a heat retention system having a lower boundary. The compacting machine further includes an adjustment system for raising and lowering the heat retention system relative to the compacting member. The adjustment system includes a first position and a second position. | 03-17-2016 |
20160076205 | Device and Process for Controlling Compaction Based on Previously Mapped Data - This disclosure provides a system and method for compacting materials, and more specifically, a system and method for proactively varying compaction effort over a mat of materials located at a worksite area responsive to previously mapped data relating to the compaction makeup of that specific worksite area. | 03-17-2016 |
20160060828 | COLD PLANER HAVING INDEPENDENTLY CONTROLLED CONVEYORS - A conveyor system is disclosed for use with a cold planer having a milling drum. The conveyor system may have a primary conveyor configured to receive material from the milling drum, a first motor configured to drive the primary conveyor, a secondary conveyor configured to receive material from the primary conveyor, and a second motor configured to drive the primary conveyor. The conveyor system may also have a controller configured to selectively adjust a speed of the second motor independent of a speed of the first motor. | 03-03-2016 |
20160060819 | ASPHALT PAVER TEMPERATURE ALERT SYSTEM FOR ASPHALT COMPACTOR OPERATOR - A system and method for controlling a paving operation includes applying asphalt to a surface using a screed mounted on a paving machine, scanning a surface of the asphalt as it is applied by the screed immediately behind the paving machine using a thermal scanner mounted on the paving machine, and transmitting a signal indicative of a scanned temperature of the asphalt from the paving machine. The signal is received at the compactor and is indicative of the scanned temperature of the asphalt. The signal is used to notify a compactor operator at the compactor. | 03-03-2016 |
20160054471 | Use of Wheel Slip to Help Identify Soft Spots - A compactor gathers GPS, orientation and wheel slip data to identify the location of a soft spot in a surface that is being compacted and to isolate the soft spot to a particular side of the compactor if the wheel slip data indicates that the soft spot is located beneath only one of the compactor wheels. The GPS, orientation and wheel slip data are displayed as location information to an operator and/or sent to a remote location to facilitate the fast and accurate repair of the soft spot. | 02-25-2016 |
20160053446 | Cold Planer Spray System and Method - A system and method for operating a cold planer includes a method for operating a cold planer. In a method, a signal indicative of an operating state is used to determine an operating condition, which is a basis for deciding which spray banks from a plurality of spray banks should be activated. Thereafter, a water flow required to operate the spray banks is estimated and a pump command signal is determined. The pump is operated and a water pressure in a main manifold is monitored such that the pump is controlled using a closed-loop control scheme that receives the water pressure as feedback to maintain a desired water pressure within the main manifold. | 02-25-2016 |
20160040372 | METHOD OF REMOVING A CUTTING CHAMBER FROM A COLD PLANER - A method of removing a cutting chamber from a cold planer is disclosed. The method initiates with disconnecting the cutting chamber from a frame of the cold planer. Thereafter, the frame of the cold planer is raised to a height above the cutting chamber. After raising, the cold planer is maneuvered to a second location. More specifically, the cold planer is maneuvered in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of travel so that the cutting chamber is no longer under the cold planer. | 02-11-2016 |
20160040368 | HOPPER ASSEMBLY FOR PAVING MACHINES - A paving machine includes a hopper assembly movable between a lowered position and a raised position and a conveyor frame. A first hopper is pivotally connected to the conveyor frame at a first hopper axis and a second hopper is pivotally connected to the conveyor frame at a second hopper axis. A first apron is connected to the first hopper about a first apron axis. A second apron is connected to the second hopper about a second apron axis. The first apron axis and the second apron axis are respectively perpendicular to the first and second hopper axis. A central apron is pivotally connected relative to the conveyor frame about a central axis that is inline to the first and second apron axis in the lowered position. The first and the second apron axis are planarly translated to the central axis from the lowered to the raised position. | 02-11-2016 |
20160024726 | PAVING MACHINE - A paving machine having a frame extending along a longitudinal direction is provided. The frame defines a front portion, a rear portion and two lateral sides. A hopper is coupled to the front portion of the frame. A screed is coupled to the rear portion of the frame. A conveyor is configured to transfer a paving material from the hopper to the screed along the longitudinal direction. The paving machine includes two pairs of ground engaging members of different types and powered independently of each other, one pair of ground engaging members being disposed towards the front portion and other pair of ground engaging members being disposed towards the rear portion of the frame. | 01-28-2016 |
20160024725 | Automatic Material Pre-fill Control Process for Paving Machine - A machine and method for pre-filling an auger chamber is disclosed. The machine may comprise a frame, a screed assembly, a conveyor, an auger disposed in the auger chamber, and a controller. The controller is configured to cause the transporting of material on the conveyor to the auger chamber, stop the conveyor if a fill period has expired, cause the auger to move a portion of the material toward an end of the auger, and stop the auger if either the auger run period has expired or the material disposed at the end of the auger has reached an auger material height threshold. | 01-28-2016 |
20160024724 | COMPACTION SYSTEM - A compaction system for providing one or more compaction passes for each pass of the compaction system is provided. The compaction system includes a belt and a sun element having a first axis and positioned within the belt. The compaction system also includes a planet element engaged with the sun element and the belt. The planet element is configured to revolve around the sun element and the first axis. The belt also revolves around the sun element. Further, for every revolution of the belt around the sun element, the planet element completes one or more revolutions around the sun element. | 01-28-2016 |
20150376847 | ADDITIVE MIXING AND DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR ROTARY MIXERS - An additive mixing and delivery system for a rotary mixer is provided. The additive mixing and delivery system includes an onboard slurry tank, an additive pump, a water pump, a spray unit, and a rotor. The onboard slurry tank receives additive and water. The onboard slurry tank mixes the additive with water to form a slurry. The additive pump delivers the additive to the onboard slurry tank. The water pump delivers the water to the onboard slurry tank. The spray unit delivers the slurry from the onboard slurry tank to a work surface. The rotor includes a number of cutting tools to disintegrate the work surface to form a disintegrated work surface. Further, the slurry is mixed with the disintegrated work surface to form an additive laden work surface. | 12-31-2015 |
20150367897 | ADJUSTABLE CAB SYSTEM FOR MACHINE - A cab system with a cab, a roll over protection structure (ROPS), and a pair of actuators, is provided. The cab includes a ceiling portion, a base portion, and at least one collapsible column. The at least one collapsible column includes an upper arm connected to the ceiling portion and a lower arm connected to the base portion. The actuating cylinder actuates to maintain the cab between a first pre-determined height and a second pre-determined height, via slidable actuation of the upper arm. The ROPS includes a canopy to cover the cab, which is secured between a pair of telescopic support members. The telescopic support member includes a movable column with a canopy end attached to the canopy and a fixed column with a frame end connected to the frame. The actuator moves the movable column to adjust the canopy between a first pre-determined distance and a second pre-determined distance. | 12-24-2015 |
20150345628 | POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POWER GENERATION APPARATUS - A power management system is provided. The power management system includes a power generation apparatus and a pump drivably coupled to the power generation apparatus. The power management system also includes a valve in fluid communication with the pump. The valve and the pump are components of a hydraulic circuit. The power management system further includes a controller communicably coupled to the valve. The controller is configured to selectively regulate the valve in order to control a pressure in the hydraulic circuit in a predetermined manner such that a torque load placed on the power generation apparatus by the pump lies below a threshold torque. | 12-03-2015 |
20150337504 | Screed Vibration System - A vibration system for a paving machine having a power source and an integrated generator is provided. The vibration system may include a power converter in electrical communication with the integrated generator, a motor drive in electrical communication with the power converter, an electric motor in electrical communication with the motor drive, and a vibratory mechanism operatively coupled to the electric motor and configured to engage at least one of a screed assembly and a tamper assembly. | 11-26-2015 |
20150337503 | PAVING MACHINE HAVING VIBRATION-ISOLATED SCREED ASSEMBLY - A screed assembly is disclosed for use with a paving machine having a machine frame. The screed assembly may have a main frame operatively connected to the machine frame, and a sub-frame with a body and a screed plate. The screed assembly may also have a vibration isolator disposed between the main frame and the sub-frame, and at least one adjustment mechanism disposed between the body and the screed plate. The at least one adjustment mechanism may be configured to adjust a flatness of the screed plate. The screed assembly may further have a vibration device connected to the body of the sub-frame and configured to vibrate the sub-frame. | 11-26-2015 |
20150308057 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEASURING ACCELERATING DRUM - A drum assembly for a vibratory compactor and method of retrofitting a vibratory compactor to measure the acceleration and/or vibratory movement of a drum rotatably mounted on the frame of the vibratory compactor. The drum assembly may comprise a drum including a shell, a mounting wall disposed inside the drum and a bulkhead disposed inside the drum and attached to the shell, a first bearing disposed between the frame and the mounting wall, a second bearing, a sensor, and a strap. The first bearing may include an inner race fixedly mounted to the frame. The second bearing may comprise a hub and a bearing shaft circumscribed by the hub and mounted to the bulkhead of the drum. The strap may be attached to the inner race and the hub. | 10-29-2015 |
20150300165 | ROTARY CUTTER SYSTEM FOR MACHINES - A rotary cutter system for a machine is disclosed. The rotary cutter system includes a drum, a plurality of cutting tools, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag associated with each of the plurality of cutting tools, an RFID reader, and a controller. The cutting tools are removably coupled to the drum through a plurality of tool holders. Each cutting tool is removably supported in a tool holder. The RFID reader is in wireless communication with each RFID tag of each cutting tool. The controller is in electrical communication with the RFID reader and generates a signal in response to at least one RFID tag being disconnected from the RFID reader corresponding to at least one cutting tool being separated from the tool holder. | 10-22-2015 |
20150284919 | Screed Extension Sliding Support System - A screed assembly includes a screed and a screed extension, with the screed coupled to the screed extension. The screed further includes an upper frame and a lower frame. The lower frame is adapted to move in a substantially vertical direction and movement in a substantially vertical direction of the lower frame results in corresponding substantially vertical movement of the screed extension. | 10-08-2015 |
20150275443 | GROUND CHARACTERISTIC MILLING MACHINE CONTROL - A milling machine includes a frame, a rotor coupled to the frame and vertically adjustable, a chamber coupled to the frame and at least partially surrounding the rotor, a speed sensor configured to measure a speed of the machine, a height sensor configured to measure a height of the rotor, a ground characteristic sensor configured to measure a ground characteristic, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive the speed of the machine from the speed sensor, receive the height of the rotor from the height sensor, receive the ground characteristic from the ground characteristic sensor, determine a target speed for the machine, determine a target height for the rotor, adjust the speed of the machine to the target speed, and adjust the height of the rotor to the target height. | 10-01-2015 |
20150260626 | System and Method for Determining a State of Compaction - A system for determining a state of compaction of a work material includes a roller having a vibration system. A controller is configured to determine the speed of the machine, determine an inclination of the machine, and determine an inclination power change based upon the inclination and the speed of the machine. The controller is also configured to determine the gross power loss resulting from the compaction operation, determine a vibration compensation factor based upon vibration characteristics of the vibration system, and determine the state of compaction of the work material based upon the inclination power change, the power loss, and the vibration compensation factor. | 09-17-2015 |
20150232139 | HITCH SYSTEM WITH LIMITED OSCILLATION - A hitch system between a first portion and a second portion of a machine includes a first frame with the first portion and a second frame with the second portion. A first axis is disposed along the machine's length and second axis along the machine's height. A link rotatably connects to the first frame at a first ball joint portion and the second frame at a second ball joint portion. A handlebar with the first frame includes a third ball joint portion, which is co-axial with the first axis and the second axis, and to which a coupler link is rotatably connected. The coupler link includes an oscillation restrictor pin. A relative play between an intermediary link with the first frame and the oscillation restrictor pin facilitates a restricted oscillation between the first portion and the second portion of the machine. | 08-20-2015 |
20150226140 | Hybrid Pump Control for Multi Fuel Engine System - In an engine system of a machine having a multi fuel engine system, an energy accumulator is provide to accumulate and store energy when the engine system is in a low engine power usage or low engine load state, and to discharge energy from the energy accumulator when the engine system is in a high engine usage or high engine load state. The energy accumulator may be implemented, for example, in the form of a gaseous fuel accumulator that delivers gaseous fuel to the engine, a hydraulic fuel accumulator that provides pressurized fluid to power a fuel pump, or a battery pack that powers an electric hydraulic pump. | 08-13-2015 |
20150218761 | Extendable Screed Height Adjusting System with Angle of Attack Adjustment - An extendable screed has independent height and angle of attack adjustment for a lower extender frame. At least one post and cylinder assembly are used to couple the lower extender frame to an upper extender frame at a pin that allows rotation of the lower extender frame relative to the upper extender frame. A vertical adjuster uses a drive rod with a pivoting attachment at the lower extender frame. An axis of rotation of the pin and an axis of rotation of the pivoting attachment are co-linear. This arrangement allows lower extender frame to move vertically while allowing angle of attack adjustments to be made about the co-linear axes of rotation. Simple screw adjusters displaced from the axis of the pin and collet assemblies allow raising and lowering the back of the lower extender frame to adjust the angle of attack. | 08-06-2015 |
20150211194 | SEALING SYSTEM FOR HITCH ASSEMBLY - A sealing system for a hitch assembly is disclosed. The hitch assembly includes a first hitch component and a second hitch component rotatable about a pin coupled therebetween. The sealing system includes a first sealing member located adjacent to the first hitch component. The first sealing member includes a first aperture extending therethrough. The sealing system also includes a second sealing member located adjacent to the second hitch component. The second sealing member includes a second aperture extending therethrough. The sealing system further includes at least one ring member provided between the first sealing member and the second sealing member. The ring member includes a third aperture extending therethrough. Further, the first, second and third apertures receive the pin therethrough. | 07-30-2015 |
20150191880 | VIBRATORY MECHANISM INCLUDING DOUBLE HELICAL KEY SHAFT, COMPACTOR INCLUDING VIBRATORY MECHANISM, AND METHOD OF OPERATING A VIBRATORY MECHANISM - A vibratory mechanism for a compaction machine, the vibratory mechanism including first and second eccentrics, and a key shaft including oppositely helically splined portions. The first helically splined portion is complimentary to and disposed at least partially within a first internally helically splined bore of the first eccentric. The second helically splined portion is complimentary to and disposed at least partially within second internally helically splined bore of the second eccentric. The key shaft is disposed to linearly translate within the helically spined bores to cause the second eccentric to rotate in a direction opposite the first eccentric. | 07-09-2015 |
20150184680 | Torque Limit Control - A prime mover transfers power to a separate hydraulic circuits via a power take off (PTO). In some situations, a peak torque demand in one of the hydraulic circuits may cause the total torque of all hydraulic circuits to exceed a rated torque at the PTO. An apparatus measures hydraulic fluid pressure in a first hydraulic circuit and adjusts the hydraulic fluid pressure in a second hydraulic circuit. Because pressure is directly correlated to torque at a pump, by adjusting the pressure in the second circuit based on the current pressure in the first hydraulic circuit, the total torque may be capped below the maximum torque rating at the PTO. The first hydraulic circuit may have a higher priority function, such as steering, compared to that of the second hydraulic circuit which may, for example, power a tool. | 07-02-2015 |
20150184347 | EDGE CUTTING SYSTEM FOR COMPACTOR - An edge cutter associated with a drum of a compactor is provided. The edge cutter includes a back plate, an actuator, a bracket and a cutting unit. The back plate is fixedly attached to a shaft of the drum. The actuator includes a first end coupled to the back plate. The actuator is configured to extend or retract along an actuating axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the steering shaft where the longitudinal axis is an axis of rotation of the drum. The bracket is coupled to a second end of the actuator. The actuator is configured to move the bracket along the actuating axis. The cutting unit has a rotating blade. The cutting unit is coupled to the bracket and is configured to move along with the bracket. | 07-02-2015 |
20150183427 | Primary Steering Enabler During Engine Failure - A system and method are provided for maintaining hydraulic steering for a machine during engine out or engine lugging conditions. The machine includes a torque-controlled transmission driven by an engine, the engine further being linked to a hydraulic steering pump that provides hydraulic power to a steering actuator. The machine may be, for example, a wheel loader or an off highway truck. The system and method include detecting an undesirable reduction of engine speed while the machine is travelling, and responsively reducing the transmission power to maintain the engine speed at a desired level to power the hydraulic steering pump. When the reduced requested transmission power reaches zero, a power reversal through the transmission is commanded to maintain the engine speed at the desired level to power the hydraulic steering pump. | 07-02-2015 |
20150175226 | HYDRAULIC TRACK TENSIONING AND RECOIL SYSTEM - A hydraulic tensioning system for a tracked undercarriage is configured to position an idler wheel, supported by a frame assembly, relative to a drive sprocket. The hydraulic tensioning system includes at least one fluid actuator unit with a body that defines a recoil chamber, a tension chamber, and a wall in between the two chambers. A piston assembly is positioned between the body and idler wheel. A ram assembly is positioned between the body and frame assembly. A recoil circuit is in fluid communication with the recoil chamber and a tank. A fluid in the recoil chamber is relieved through a relief valve when the idler wheel is displaced. Fluid is introduced to the recoil chamber, urging the idler wheel away from the frame assembly, via the piston assembly. A tensioning fluid within the tension chamber selectively urges the idler wheel away from the frame assembly, via the ram assembly. | 06-25-2015 |
20150139729 | PAVING MACHINE WITH AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTABLE SCREED ASSEMBLY - A method for preparing a screed assembly for starting a new paving operation is provided. The screed assembly is reset to a pre-stored screed position in response to a user command. A user defined paving depth associated with the new paving operation is received. The screed assembly is positioned to rest on a paving surface and to a float mode in response to a user command. An angle of attack of the screed assembly associated with the new paving operation is set in response to a user command. Further, a height of the screed assembly is adjusted based on the user defined paving depth. A confirmation message indicative of the screed assembly prepared for the new paving operation is provided to a user. | 05-21-2015 |
20150132058 | AUTOMATED HOPPER AND APRON CONTROL SYSTEM ON A PAVING MACHINE - A paving machine including a right hopper, a left hopper, an apron and an automated hopper and apron control system is provided. The right hopper, the left hopper and the apron are configured to move in a vertically upward and downward direction. The automated hopper and apron control system is configured to control the movement of one or more of the right hopper, the left hopper, and the apron. The automated hopper and apron control system may include a controller. The controller is configured to operate the automated hopper and apron control system in a manual mode and an auto mode as desired by an operator. In the auto mode, the controller actuates one or more of the right hopper, the left hopper, and the apron from a first position to one of a fully raised position and a fully lowered position. | 05-14-2015 |
20150126330 | POWERTRAIN WITH A CHAIN BREAKAGE DETECTION SYSTEM - A pneumatic compactor includes a power source configured to generate power, a pneumatic tire configured to rotate, a chain drive assembly that couples the power source to the pneumatic tire, a proximity sensor, an indicator, a braker controller, and a controller. The chain drive assembly has a chain case and a chain housed in the chain case. The proximity sensor is coupled to the chain case and configured to detect a breakage of the chain and generate a signal signifying the breakage of the chain. The indicator is configured to indicate the breakage of the chain. The brake controller is configured to stop rotation of the pneumatic tire. The controller is configured to receive the indication from the proximity sensor signifying the breakage of the chain, command the indicator to indicate the breakage of the chain, and command the brake controller to stop rotation of the pneumatic tire. | 05-07-2015 |
20150122962 | FLOATING MIXING CHAMBER FOR RECLAIMING MACHINES - A support assembly for supporting a mixing chamber of a reclaiming machine having a frame includes a rod member pivotally mounted on the frame at end portions, a stop member, and a L-linkage attached to the rod member. The L-linkage is further attached to the mixing chamber. The stop member is configured to rotate with the movement of the mixing chamber. Further, a float linkage is provided. The float linkage is capable of being abutted with the stop members and pivotally attached to the rod member. The float linkage is configured to stop the rotation of stop member. Further, a hydraulic cylinder is provided. The hydraulic cylinder connected with the float linkage and the frame. The hydraulic cylinder is configured to adjust the float linkage to one of a plurality of positions. | 05-07-2015 |
20150117951 | GROUND CHARACTERISTIC MILLING MACHINE CONTROL - A milling machine includes a frame, a rotor coupled to the frame and vertically adjustable, a chamber coupled to the frame and at least partially surrounding the rotor, a speed sensor configured to measure a speed of the machine, a height sensor configured to measure a height of the rotor, a ground characteristic sensor configured to measure a ground characteristic, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive the speed of the machine from the speed sensor, receive the height of the rotor from the height sensor, receive the ground characteristic from the ground characteristic sensor, determine a target speed for the machine, determine a target height for the rotor, adjust the speed of the machine to the target speed, and adjust the height of the rotor to the target height. | 04-30-2015 |
20150092393 | LIGHTING SYSTEM - A lighting system for a work machine is provided. The lighting system includes a plurality of step lights disposed on a stairway of the work machine. The lighting system further includes a lighting power source configured to provide power to the plurality of step lights for lighting, independently of an operational state of the work machine. The lighting system also includes a radio frequency identification reader configured to read a radio frequency identification tag associated with an operator. The lighting system further includes a lighting control module configured to receive a signal based on the reading of the radio frequency identification tag. The lighting control module further detects if the operator is proximate to the work machine. The lighting control module further triggers an activation of the plurality of step lights based on the detection of the operator proximate to the work machine. | 04-02-2015 |
20150078824 | ADJUSTABLE EDGE FORMING APPARATUS FOR PAVING MACHINE - An edge forming apparatus for a paving machine forms margins of road paving materials concomitantly with a paving operation. A tube member having a slidably engaged elongated member is included. Lock plates, having lock-plate openings, are positionably engaged with the elongated member. A shaping plate is adjustably coupled with the lock plates and includes offset strips, with apertures, fixedly attached thereto. An offset pin is selectively positioned in the lock plates and extends through the lock-plate openings and the apertures. The lock plates are positionably movable with the elongated member, positioning the shaping plate in one of a retracted position and an angled position. The shaping plate is restricted from substantial rotation through an engagement of the shaping plate with the tube member through a non-rotatable fit between the tube member and the elongated member in response to contact between the shaping plate and the road paving materials. | 03-19-2015 |
20150063907 | Advanced Paver/Screed Automation and Controls - A method of operating a machine having at least one tool is provided. The method may store one or more job profiles or machine configurations and an auto-zero or default profile in a memory associated with the machine, where each of the job profiles and the auto-zero profile may include one or more control settings for operating one or more of the machine and the tool; recall a selected one of the job profiles and the auto-zero profile in response to user input received at a user interface associated with the machine; engage or machine reset operation of one or more of the machine and the tool according to the control settings associated with the selected one of the job profiles and the auto-zero profile; and disengage at least part of the operation based on positioning information provided by one or more feedback devices. | 03-05-2015 |
20150016886 | AUTOADAPTIVE ENGINE IDLE SPEED CONTROL - A machine engine idle speed control system may include an automated autoadaptive mode to supplement typical economy and normal power modes. The autoadaptive mode may afford an operator with an automated option to optimize fuel economy and lower engine/machine noise. The autoadaptive mode may initially default to a typical lower engine idle speed of the economy mode. However, as the machine workload rises, demands on the engine may become greater, and at a predetermined threshold of engine workload the engine idle speed may be automatically increased to a higher set point. The engine control may then remain at the higher idle speed until engine load is reduced to some predetermined target, and/or after a certain time period has elapsed. The time period may be controlled by a configurable delay timer to avoid unnecessary/undesirable cycling between modes. In addition, an operator may always intervene to increase or decrease engine idle speed. | 01-15-2015 |
20140361600 | Cold Planer Anti-Slabbing Mechanism - A cold planer includes a frame and a cutting mechanism having a rotatable cutter configured to cut material of a substrate. An anti-slabbing mechanism is coupled to the frame and includes an upwardly oriented base plate, and a plurality of skids. The skids are arranged in a first subset and a second subset positioned upon opposite outboard sides of a forwardly projecting plow, and downwardly depend from a base plate of the anti-slabbing mechanism, for applying a slabbing opposition force to uncut material of the substrate. | 12-11-2014 |
20140328626 | SCREED EXTENSION SLIDING SUPPORT SYSTEM - A screed assembly includes a screed and a screed extension, with the screed coupled to the screed extension. The screed further includes an upper frame and a lower frame. The lower frame is adapted to move in a substantially vertical direction and movement in a substantially vertical direction of the lower frame results in corresponding substantially vertical movement of the screed extension. | 11-06-2014 |
20140301784 | SCREED WALKWAY - A walkway for a screed includes a main walkway and an extender walkway coupled to the main walkway and an extender frame of the screed. The extender walkway is slidable relative to the main walkway along a sliding direction. Further, the extender walkway and the extender frame are pivotable relative to each other about a walkway pivot axis, the walkway pivot axis being substantially perpendicular to the sliding direction. | 10-09-2014 |
20140294503 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SCREED EXTENSION IDENTIFICATION - A screed system is provided. The screed system includes a base screed. The screed system includes an extension member, wherein the extension member is detachably coupled to the base screed. The screed system also includes an identification module associated with the extension member. The identification module is configured to provide an indication of the extension member. The screed system further includes a controller, wherein the controller is configured to determine a parameter associated with the extension member based on the indication. Further, the identification module and the controller are configured to communicate with each other. | 10-02-2014 |
20140270950 | ROTARY MIXER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING MATERIAL GRADATION THEREOF - A rotary mixer herein includes: a rotor chamber configured to receive a first surface and produce a reclaimed surface, the rotor chamber including: a front door, a rear door, and a rotor; a particle size detector configured to detect a particle size of the reclaimed surface; and an electronic control module (ECM) electronically coupled to the rotor chamber and the particle sensor, the ECM configured to: receive a particle size from the particle sensor, compare the detected particle size to a desired particle size, adjust the degree of pulverization of the reclaimed surface according to the difference between the detected particle size and the desired particle size. | 09-18-2014 |
20140265525 | TRANSMISSION SYSTEM FOR TRANSMITTING POWER FROM ENGINE TO MILLING ROTOR IN COLD PLANER - A transmission system is provided for transmitting power from an engine to a milling rotor in a cold planer. The transmission system includes a first circuit, a second circuit, and a shaft. The first circuit is disposed in a first plane and configured to be operatively driven by the engine. The second circuit is disposed in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane and configured to operatively drive the milling rotor. The shaft couples the first circuit to the second circuit wherein the engine and the milling rotor are axially offset. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260751 | Configurable Control For A Paving Machine - An operator interface having actuators associated therewith for controlling functions of a paving machine. The operator interface includes an interactive display and a configurable lockout control associated therewith. The interactive display is enabled to allow an operator to configure the configurable lockout control by selecting at least one function that is locked out of control by an associated actuator when the lockout control is activated. | 09-18-2014 |
20140219721 | WALKWAY ASSEMBLY FOR PAVING MACHINES - A walkway assembly for a paving machine is disclosed herein. The walkway assembly includes a main walkway, an extender walkway, and a wheel assembly. The extender walkway telescopically extends and retracts relative to the main walkway. The wheel assembly includes a guard, a pin, and a wheel. The guard includes six surfaces mutually perpendicular to each other. The guard includes a cavity which defines a first opening in the first surface and a second opening in the third surface. The guard also includes an insert hole longitudinally extending from the second surface to the cavity. The wheel having a through hole is positioned inside the cavity and extends partially outwards from the guard through the second opening in rolling contact with extender walkway. | 08-07-2014 |
20140219720 | WALKWAY ASSEMBLY FOR PAVING MACHINES - A walkway assembly for a paving machine is disclosed in the present disclosure. The walkway assembly comprises a main walkway, an extender walkway, and a wheel assembly. The extender walkway telescopically extends and retracts relative to the main walkway. The wheel assembly comprises a hollow guard, a pin, and a wheel. The hollow guard includes a first hole in a first transverse member and a second hole in a second transverse member. The pin extends therethrough between the first hole and the second hole of the hollow guard. The pin couples the wheel assembly with the main walkway. The wheel is mounted on the pin and positioned inside the hollow guard. The wheel extends above the hollow guard and is in a rolling contact with the extender walkway. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216849 | COUPLING ASSEMBLY FOR WALKWAY IN PAVING MACHINE - A walkway assembly for a paving machine is provided. The paving machine includes a centering plate attached to a stairway, and a coupling assembly which couples the centering plate to a main walkway of the walkway assembly. The coupling assembly includes a bracket assembly, a first member, and a second member. The first member includes a first end with a first slot and the second member includes a second end with a second slot. A first disc and a second disc are in contact with a first surface and a second surface of the centering plate, respectively. The first disc includes a first recess to fit a first fastener end of a first fastener, allowing the first disc to pivot. The second disc includes a second recess to fit a second fastener end of a second fastener, allowing the second disc to pivot. | 08-07-2014 |
20140186115 | Paving Machine with Automatically Adjusting Paver Tractor and Screed - A paving machine including an adjustable screed assembly is provided. Actuators adjust the screed assembly into the plurality of different configurations. Sensors sense a respective configuration parameter indicative of the configuration of the screed assembly. A controller is configured to save a first set of parameters including the configuration parameters and save a second set of parameters including the configuration parameters in response. The controller is configured to recall one of the first set or second set of parameters, and adjust automatically the configuration of the screed assembly to correspond to the configuration parameters included in the recalled first set or second set of parameters. | 07-03-2014 |
20140169882 | ADJUSTABLE SIZING BAR FOR ROTARY MIXERS - A machine for receiving a ground layer, breaking up the ground layer into pieces, and producing a reclaimed layer incorporating the pieces, the machine including: a frame; a rotor coupled to the frame; a mixing chamber coupled to the frame and at least partially surrounding the rotor, the mixing chamber having an interior surface; a first member coupled to the interior surface and having an edge, the first member being moveable between a first position and a second position; and a gap length between the edge and the rotor, the gap length including: a first length when the first member is in the first position; and a second length when the first member is in the second position, the second length being greater than the first length. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167486 | Sensor Mounting System For Road Milling Machine - A road milling machine includes a sensor mounting system having a first mounting member, which is attached to a first machine component and supports a portion of a position sensor, and a second mounting member attached to a second machine component having a pivotable attachment to a machine frame. An extension member has a first end attached to the second mounting member and a second end including an attachment flange. A unitary ski member has a first end attached to another portion of the position sensor and a second end pivotably attached to the attachment flange. The unitary ski member includes a ground engaging surface that is positioned inboard relative to first and second side plates, which flank a rotor, and has a pivot movement compensation curve. A controller is configured for determining a milling depth of the rotor from measurements obtained by the position sensor. | 06-19-2014 |
20140154010 | PAVEMENT EDGE FORMING APPARATUS FOR PAVING MACHINE - A paving machine includes a screed. The screed further includes an endgate, a mount, a platform, and a pavement edge forming member. The pavement edge forming member has a longitudinal member and a shaping plate coupled to the longitudinal member and is inclined at an angle to a non-paved surface. The shaping plate is configured to form a ramped surface between a mat and the non-paved surface. | 06-05-2014 |
20140138934 | PUSH BAR ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE - A push bar assembly for an operating vehicle is provided. The push bar assembly includes a telescopic bar, a tow eye, a hitch assembly, and a spring assembly. The telescopic bar includes a first tube, a second tube and a spring-lock pin. The second tube is configured to move inside the first tube. The spring-lock pin is mounted on the first tube and configured to restrict the telescopic motion of the second tube inside the first tube. The hitch assembly includes a first end, a second end and an eye. The hitch assembly is configured to couple the telescopic bar with the operating vehicle. The tow eye is coupled to a second end of the second tube. Further, the spring assembly is mounted on the first tube and is coupled to the hitch assembly. | 05-22-2014 |
20140133909 | ECCENTRIC WEIGHT SHAFT FOR VIBRATORY COMPACTOR - A vibratory compactor includes a roller and an eccentric shaft. The roller is rotatably mounted on a main frame and may include a first vertical support and a second vertical support. The eccentric shaft is rotatably connected between the first vertical support and the second vertical support in the roller. The eccentric shaft includes a first end, a second end, a first eccentric weight, a second eccentric weight, and a center portion, casted as a single piece. The first eccentric weight is proximal to the first end and the second eccentric weight is proximal to the second end. The center portion may be disposed between the first eccentric weight and the second eccentric weight. The center portion may include at least one cavity on a surface of the center portion. The at least one cavity is elongated between the first eccentric weight and the second eccentric weight. | 05-15-2014 |
20140133906 | Tracking of Machine System Movements in Paving Machine - Methods and apparatus for tracking manual operations during automatic control of a surface-engaging operation, such as laying a mat on a paving surface, include automatically operating a plurality of components to perform the surface-engaging operation without the actuation of corresponding operator controls. Actuation of the operator controls and actuation of the corresponding components to perform a manual operation can occur during the automatic operation. Information corresponding to the manual operation is recorded in response to detecting actuation of the operator controls and determining that the automatic operation of the machine is occurring. | 05-15-2014 |
20140119826 | SCREED EXTENDER SPEED CONTROL - A control system for an extendable screed includes a first input device configured to set a speed limit for the extendable screed, a second input device configured to vary a speed of the extendable screed within the speed limit. The controller further includes, a third input device configured to govern a relationship between a speed of the extendable screed and a relative position of the second input device. The control system further includes a controller configured to receive inputs from the first, the second, and the third input devices and output a command signal to move the extendable screed relative to the main screed. | 05-01-2014 |
20140110229 | SIDE COVER FOR CONVEYOR - A side cover is provided for a conveyor. The side cover includes a first edge and a second edge. The second edge is substantially parallel to the first edge. Further, a magnet is coupled to the first edge. The magnet is configured to couple the side cover to the conveyor. | 04-24-2014 |
20140104056 | LIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM - A machine having a light control system is provided. The light control system includes a hazard light associated with the machine, a plurality of control locations provided on the machine, and a light control module provided at each of the plurality of control locations and communicably coupled to the hazard light. The light control module configured to receive an input signal from each of the plurality of control locations. The light control module is further configured to prioritize the input signal based on a time stamp associated with the input signal. The light control module is further configured to control an operation of the hazard light based, at least in part, on the prioritized input signal. | 04-17-2014 |
20140099165 | Automatic Material Height Sensor For Asphalt Pavers - A method and apparatus is disclosed for controlling material feed for asphalt pavers. The material feed system includes a screed, feeder conveyor and a spreader auger. A sensor measures a material volume and transmits this information to an electronic control module (ECM). This information may be used as the target material volume, which the ECM may use to calculate a corresponding conveyor speed and auger speed. The sensor monitors the material volume as paving commences, and the ECM maintains the initial calibrated target size by adjusting the auger and conveyor rotational speeds. | 04-10-2014 |
20140093315 | SURFACE TREATMENT MACHINE - A surface treatment machine comprising a chassis; a cutter member mounted to the chassis for milling a surface; and a smoother member mounted to the chassis for levelling raised edges of a milled surface, the smoother member positioned behind the cutter member relative to the direction of travel, wherein the smoother member comprises a movably supported impact element for impacting the raised edges of the milled surface. | 04-03-2014 |
20140083786 | Engine Hot Air Deflector - An engine hot air deflector for a work machine having an articulated frame pivotally coupled to a main body by a hitch assembly having a hitch link includes a resilient hot air deflector panel mounted proximate to and overlaying an open end of the main body. The deflector panel includes upper and lower panel portions separated by a panel slot. The panel slot receives the hitch link so that the panel portions conform to the shape of the hitch link as it moves within the deflector opening during rotation of the articulated frame to substantially prevent hot air from the internal combustion engine from passing through the deflector opening. The deflector may also include a support bracket mounting the deflector panel to the main body. | 03-27-2014 |
20140079484 | PNEUMATIC COMPACTOR WEIGHT SENSING SYSTEM - A weight sensing system for a pneumatic compactor is provided. The weight sensing system includes a pressure sensor in communication with a pneumatic cylinder. The pressure sensor is configured to generate a signal indicative of a pressure exerted on the pneumatic cylinder. Further, a controller is communicably coupled to the pressure sensor. The controller is configured to receive the signal indicative of the pressure exerted on the pneumatic cylinder. The controller is also configured to determine a compaction weight of the pneumatic compactor based on the received signal, a weight distribution on the pneumatic compactor, and a fixed volume of the pneumatic cylinder. | 03-20-2014 |
20140064848 | Strike Off Apparatus - A strike off apparatus and method for moving a blade in such an apparatus are disclosed. The strike off apparatus may comprise a frame, a collar mounted to the frame, a blade mounted to the frame and moveable from a first position to a second position, a guide disposed within the channel, and an actuator operatively connected to the guide. The actuator may be configured to move the blade from the first position to a second position. The frame and collar may define a first portion of a generally vertical channel. | 03-06-2014 |
20140037375 | WALKING FLOOR FOR PAVING MACHINE - A system is provided. The system includes a conveyor and a walking floor. The conveyor is configured to convey paving material from a hopper of a paving machine. The walking floor is immediately adjacent to the conveyor. The walking floor is configured to convey at least a portion of the paving material to the conveyor. | 02-06-2014 |
20140035344 | Folding Canopy for Cold Planer Machine - A machine for milling a surface of a roadway is provided. The machine includes a frame and an operator station arranged on the frame. A canopy assembly including a canopy and a support assembly is provided. The support assembly supports the canopy on a portion of the frame forward of the operator station such that canopy is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. The canopy and the support assembly are configured such that in the raised position the canopy extends over at least a portion of the operator station and in the lowered position the canopy is arranged in a substantially flat orientation relative to and adjacent an upper surface of a portion of the frame forward of the operator station. | 02-06-2014 |
20140034420 | LUBRICATION CONTROL SYSTEM - A system is provided. The system includes a lubrication feeder and a controller. The controller is in communication with the lubrication feeder. The controller is configured to activate the lubrication feeder according to a position of an implement and a temperature associated with the machine. | 02-06-2014 |
20140015304 | CHAMBER FOR MILLING MACHINE - A chamber for a milling machine includes a milling rotor rotatably mounted transversely on the chamber. The chamber also includes a side plate mounted on the chamber, adjacent to the milling rotor, in a substantially vertical position. The side plate includes a side plate support. The chamber further includes a rotor bearing coupled with the milling rotor and a bearing support configured to receive the rotor bearing. The chamber also includes at least one fastening element to removably couple the bearing support with the side plate support and the rotor bearing. | 01-16-2014 |
20130334864 | FOLDABLE CONVEYOR - A foldable conveyor having a first conveyor section and a second conveyor section pivotally connected to the first conveyor section. The pivotal connection allows the second conveyor section to articulate about the first conveyor section. The foldable conveyor also includes a pivoting mechanism operatively connected to the first conveyor section and the second conveyor section. The pivoting mechanism includes a first link having one end pivotally connected to the first section. The pivoting mechanism also includes a second link having one end pivotally connected to the second section. A second end of the second link is pivotally connected with a second end of the first link. The pivoting mechanism further includes an actuator configured to pivot the second conveyor section about the first conveyor section by allowing a relative movement between the first link and the second link. | 12-19-2013 |
20130304338 | CLUTCH CONTROL SYSTEM FOR PAVER - A clutch control system for a clutch provided between an engine and a load drive. The clutch control system includes a sensor, a detector, an electronic control module and a controller. The sensor is configured to determine a running condition of an engine, and generate a load signal indicative of the running condition of the engine. The detector is associated with an operator control for a load drive to sense an issuance of a work command by the operator control to the load drive, and generate a command signal on issuance of the work command. The electronic control module is configured to receive and process the load signal and the command signal, and generate a control signal according to the load signal and the command signal. Further, the controller is configured to selectively engage or disengage the clutch according to the control signal. | 11-14-2013 |
20130294833 | Extension Mounting System And Method For Attaching Screed Extension to Screed - A screed has an extendible frame portion that includes a catch engaging surface of an extension mounting system. The extendible frame portion is expandable along a lateral extension axis and pivotable about a pivot axis perpendicular to the lateral extension axis. A screed extension has a screed extension frame supporting a mounting catch of the extension mounting system. In a mounting configuration, the extendible frame portion is pivoted to a lowered mounting position, and the extendible frame portion is axially expanded to an extended mounting position in which the catch engaging surface and the mounting catch are vertically aligned. In a lifted configuration, the extendible frame portion is pivoted to a raised lifting position, the catch engaging surface and the mounting catch are in mating engagement, and the screed extension is supported on the extendible frame portion using the extension mounting system. | 11-07-2013 |
20130287494 | ROTARY MIXER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING MATERIAL GRADATION THEREOF - A rotary mixer herein includes: a rotor chamber configured to receive a first surface and produce a reclaimed surface, the rotor chamber including: a front door, a rear door, and a rotor; a particle size detector configured to detect a particle size of the reclaimed surface; and an electronic control module (ECM) electronically coupled to the rotor chamber and the particle sensor, the ECM configured to: receive a particle size from the particle sensor, compare the detected particle size to a desired particle size, adjust the degree of pulverization of the reclaimed surface according to the difference between the detected particle size and the desired particle size. | 10-31-2013 |
20130253780 | System and Method for Paver Screed Endgate Control - A height adjustment system for a paving screed apparatus and a method for adjusting the height of the endgates of a screed system are disclosed. In a disclosed system, the system includes an endgate coupled to a biasing element, such as a spring or a hydraulic cylinder and rod. The biasing element is coupled to an actuator. The actuator is linked to a controller. The biasing element is moveable between a compressed position and an extended position with a setpoint range disposed between the compressed and extended positions. The biasing element is also associated with a sensor for measuring vertical displacement of the biasing element, pressure or load on the biasing element with respect to the setpoint range. | 09-26-2013 |
20130249271 | CONTROL MODULE FOR MILLING ROTOR - A control module for a milling rotor of a machine is provided. The control module comprises a processor and a controller. The processor is configured to receive a first signal, indicative of a direction of motion of the machine, a second signal, indicative of a relative height of a pair of side plates with respect to the milling rotor, and a third signal, indicative of a relative height of a moldboard with respect to the milling rotor. The processor processes the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal to generate a control signal. The controller is configured to receive the control signal from the processor and selectively disengage the milling rotor of the machine based on the control signal. | 09-26-2013 |
20130238210 | GRADE PROPULSION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A grade propulsion system provided herein includes: a propel pump; a brake system; an operator control configured to receive and transmit a propel command and a Hill Mode activation; and a controller electronically coupled to the propel pump, the brake system, and the operator control, the controller configured, after activation of the Hill Mode and the propel command, to transmit a propel current to the propel pump and disengage the brake system when the propel current is equal to or greater than a cracking current plus an offset current. | 09-12-2013 |
20130223933 | Compactor Having Electronically Controlled Liquid Dispensing Mechanism, System, and Method - A compactor includes a rotatable compacting element, and a dispensing mechanism for dispensing a liquid onto an outer surface of the compacting element to prevent sticking of paving material. The compactor further includes an electronic control mechanism configured to activate the dispensing mechanism, and further configured to deactivate the dispensing mechanism responsive to data indicating an extent of coverage of the outer surface with the liquid is sufficient. Related systems and methodology are also disclosed. | 08-29-2013 |
20130223928 | COMPACTOR HAVING CONTROLLABLE EDGE WHEEL SPRAY SYSTEM - A compactor includes a frame and a compacting element coupled to the frame. An edge wheel assembly is also coupled to the frame and is adjustable between a raised configuration and a lowered configuration at which an edge wheel contacts a substrate outboard of the compacting element. The compactor further includes a spray system for the edge wheel, and a control device in control communication with the spray system and configured to command activation of the spray system responsive to detecting lowering of the edge wheel. | 08-29-2013 |
20130223927 | Systems and Methods for Aiming Asphalt Material Feed Sensors - A system for measuring the height of paving material distributed by an auger of a paving machine in front of a grading implement, such as a screed, is disclosed. The system includes a sonic sensor and a laser pointer. The sonic sensor generates a sonic signal which is directed at the paving material distributed by the auger. The laser pointer generates a laser beam which is similarly directed at the paving material that has been distributed by the auger. The laser beam and the sonic signal meet at a common position on the paving material. | 08-29-2013 |
20130195554 | MOLDBOARD LOCK - A milling machine including a chamber, a milling rotor, a rear door and a moldboard. The chamber has a front portion and a rear portion. The milling rotor is rotatably mounted transversely on the chamber. The rear door is mounted mounted adjacent to the milling rotor, in a substantially vertical position. The moldboard is coupled with the rear door. The moldboard is vertically movable with respect to the rear door between a retracted position and an extended position. A bulkhead is mounted on the chamber, adjacent to the milling rotor, in a substantially vertical position. The bulkhead includes a guide bar. A guide pin is coupled with the moldboard and configured to move within the guide bar. The guide pin is used to lock the moldboard in the extended position and to unlock the moldboard in the retracted position with respect to the bulkhead. | 08-01-2013 |
20130183092 | FEEDER FLOOR PROTECTION SYSTEM FOR PAVING MACHINE - A feeder floor protection system for a paving machine includes at least a first pair of wear plates covering a majority of a feeder floor. Each wear plate has at least two frame abutment features and at least two plate abutment features. Each plate abutment feature includes at least two non-contiguous lateral movement restriction surfaces offset from a centerline of the paving machine and at least one fore and aft movement restriction surface in a plane perpendicular to the centerline. The lateral movement restriction surfaces of a first plate of the pair of wear plates abut the lateral movement restriction surfaces of a second plate of the pair of wear plates. The fore and aft movement restriction surface of the first plate abuts the fore and aft movement restriction surface of the second plate. | 07-18-2013 |
20130166155 | Automatic Four Leg Leveling for Cold Planers - A method for leveling of a machine on a surface, and a machine for the same, is disclosed. The method may comprise equalizing the legs of the machine prior to extending or retracting the legs of the machine to raise or lower the machine during non-milling operational status. The method may also comprise extending or retracting the legs during milling operational status while maintaining the relative lengths of each leg. | 06-27-2013 |
20130162004 | Automatic Rear Leg Control for Cold Planers - A method of maintaining a machine substantially level with a first surface is disclosed. The method may comprise determining an electronic travel path between a first point and a second point on a second surface, the second surface created by a tool removing a section of the first surface, and adjusting the length of the rear leg to maintain the frame substantially level to the first surface as the rear leg moves along the travel path from the first point to the second point in a forward direction. A machine for planing a road is disclosed that maintains a parallel orientation with the road during operation. | 06-27-2013 |
20130162003 | AUTOMATIC CUT-TRANSITION MILLING MACHINE AND METHOD - A milling machine is provided including: a frame; a plurality of ground engaging units; a plurality of vertically adjustable legs, the plurality of vertically adjustable legs comprising a front leg and a rear leg; a rotatable mill configured to mill a surface; a user interface configured to receive a milling grade depth and a cut-transition factor; a speed sensor configured to provide a ground speed of the milling machine; a vertical position sensor; and a controller coupled to the speed sensor, the vertical position sensor, and the user interface, the controller configured to lower a height of the rotatable mill to the milling grade depth by incrementally adjusting a length of at least one of the plurality of vertically adjustable legs according to the cut-transition factor, the speed sensor, and the vertical position sensor. | 06-27-2013 |
20130161928 | MODULAR BALLAST SYSTEM - A ballast system provided herein includes: a ballast including: a first recessed bottom portion; a second recessed bottom portion; a sump portion between the first and second portion, the sump portion configured to extend downward past the first and second recessed bottom portions; and a machine comprising a ballast holding area, the ballast holding area including: a channel configured to receive a ballast; a first cantilevered lip; and a second cantilevered lip spaced apart from the first cantilevered lip, the first and second cantilevered lips configured to hold the ballast in place there between. | 06-27-2013 |
20130158802 | Steering System for Crawler Track Machine - A crawler track machine such as a cold planar milling machine may incorporate a steering system having multiple steering modes including coordinated steering modes as well as an improved crab mode. Orientations of front and rear pairs of crawler tracks may be managed via a linear actuator control system adapted to dynamically adjust lengths of front and rear tie rods. In one disclosed embodiment, the machine may include at least a coordinated four-track steering mode, an independent front track steering mode, and a crab mode. The crab mode may involve use of automated linear actuators on the tie rods to assure that all tracks remain substantially parallel to one another, and may involve the use of lookup tables to coordinate actuator movements in response to individual parallel track angle demands as a function of steering inputs. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153310 | Suspension System and Control Method for Track-Propelled Machines - A suspension system for cold planer with four tracks is disclosed. The suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder for each track, an additional bypass valve for each hydraulic cylinder and an additional bypass valve that bypasses the operation of the front control valves that control the elevation of the front tracks during a cutting operation. During transport or roading of the cold planer, the bypass valves are energized by a controller and the energized bypass valves provide communication between the head ends of the left side cylinders and the head ends of the right side cylinders. During roading, the energized bypass valves also provide communication between the rod ends of the front cylinders and between the rod ends of the rear cylinders. | 06-20-2013 |
20130115014 | HYDROSTATIC DRIVE FOR A MACHINE - A hydrostatic drive including a hydrostatic pump configured to supply a transmission fluid. The hydrostatic drive further includes an axle motor and a drum motor. The axle motor is configured to drive a set of traction wheels and the drum motor is configured to drive a drum. The hydrostatic drive also includes an axle drive line and a drum drive line. The axle drive line and the drum drive line are connected to the axle motor and the drum motor respectively to supply the transmission fluid. A manifold integrally connected to the hydrostatic pump to operatively couple the axle drive line and the drum drive line with the hydrostatic pump. | 05-09-2013 |
20130115001 | RELEASABLY MOUNTED SCRAPER - A scraping arrangement including a pair of linkage arms mounted at a one end to a frame. The pair of linkage arms is pivotally mounted to the frame. The scraping arrangement also includes a scraper supported at a free end of the pair of linkage arms. Further, a retaining member is provided to releasably secure the pair of linkage arms along with the scraper to the frame. | 05-09-2013 |
20130079999 | Rotor/Engine Speed Control for Cold Planer - Cold planers work in a variety of conditions where different rotor speeds can be beneficial. The rotor is connected directly to the engine via a clutch so the speed cannot be changed independent of the engine speed. The control system disclosed herein enables the operator to quickly select from a plurality of different engine/rotor speeds. The engine/rotor speeds correspond to different machine applications. Each speed corresponds to a point on the torque map for the particular cold planer that will offer acceptable machine performance for the particular application. If the operator inputs one of the plurality of different commands, a timer is activated and movement of the cold planer must take place within a predetermined time period or the engine speed is reduced to the elevated idle speed where the clutch is able to engage the rotor. | 03-28-2013 |
20130000429 | System and Method to Prevent Premature Wear on Key Shaft - A system and method for lubricating a key shaft in a compaction machine is disclosed. The compaction machine may include a spline oil cavity and a key shaft in fluid communication with the spline oil cavity. The key shaft may include an axial splined portion and a helical splined portion on an outer surface thereof, a longitudinal lubricating passage extending through a substantial length of the key shaft and a plurality of additional lubricating passages intersecting the longitudinal lubricating passage. The system and method may additionally include lubricating the axial splined portion and the helical splined portion of the key shaft with the lubricating oil drawn from the spline oil cavity. | 01-03-2013 |
20120298834 | MACHINE AND FIXED CONNECTION OF OPERATING SPACE FRAME FOR THE SAME - The present disclosure discloses a fixed connection of an operating space frame of a machine, comprising: a machine frame; an operating space frame mounted on the machine frame and having a plurality of posts, wherein a first connecting plate is fixedly connected respectively at a lower portion of at least two adjacent posts, the first mounting plate is fixedly connected to the machine frame via a connecting member, and a stopper is provided between the first mounting plate and the machine frame. The fixed connection improves the connection strength between the operating space frame and the machine so as to suppress deformation of the operating space frame subjected to an impact of an external force and thus provide protection for the operator and equipments therein. The present disclosure further relates to a machine having the above fixed connection. | 11-29-2012 |
20120151905 | Control Apparatus and Method for a Hydrostatically Actuated Vehicle - A method and apparatus for controlling operation of an engine in a hydrostatically driven vehicle having high and economy modes may include monitoring one or more control inputs. When in the economy mode the engine may be operated: at a fixed propel neutral speed when a propel control input is in a neutral position; at a fixed propel drive speed when the propel control input is in a drive position and a propel pump displacement signal is less than a maximum displacement position of a propel pump; and at a variable drive speed when the propel control input is in the drive position and the propel pump displacement signal indicates a maximum displacement position. The economy mode conserves fuel while ensuring that sufficient engine power is maintained to operate the propel and any implement pumps provided on the vehicle. | 06-21-2012 |
20110302998 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMPACTION MEASUREMENT - A system for compaction measurement, including at least two compaction measurement systems for determining the compaction state of various portions of a material region at a worksite and a display system for displaying aggregated data from the compaction measurement systems. | 12-15-2011 |
20110158745 | VIBRATORY SYSTEM FOR A COMPACTOR - A vibratory system for a compactor is provided. The vibratory system has a first eccentric, a second eccentric, and a drive shaft. The second eccentric is rotatably and coaxially positioned with respect to the first eccentric. The drive shaft is rotatably coupled to the second eccentric and rotatably coupled to the first eccentric through a helical spline. | 06-30-2011 |
20110097148 | SURFACE COMPACTOR AND METHOD OF OPERATING A SURFACE COMPACTOR - A method of operating a surface compactor is provided. The method may include supporting a base of the surface compactor on a surface. The method may also include generating a fluctuating vertical force on the base with a vibratory mechanism, which may include moving one or more weights of the vibratory mechanism with a drive system of the vibratory mechanism. Additionally, the method may include sensing a parameter of the operation of the vibratory mechanism that fluctuates in reaction to moving the one or more weights to generate the fluctuating vertical force. The method may also include automatically adjusting the operation of the vibratory mechanism to adjust the fluctuating vertical force based at least in part on the sensed parameter. | 04-28-2011 |
20110054746 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A HYDROSTATICALLY DRIVEN VEHICLE - A hydrostatically powered vehicle includes an engine operatively associated with a pump that supplies fluid to a propel motor. Based on various sensed and engine operating conditions, a controller determines a desired operating condition for the engine while maintaining the travel speed of the vehicle constant. | 03-03-2011 |
20110052319 | EXTENSION PLATE FOR A COMPACTOR AND METHOD - An extension plate for use in a compactor includes an elongate body extending between a first surface configured to be coupled to the compactor frame and a second surface configured to be coupled to a support of the compactor. The first surface includes a first opening aligning with an opening into an interior of the compactor. A second opening in at least one of the elongate body or the second surface communicates with the first opening to allow passage of a hose through the extension plate and through the opening in the frame into the interior space. | 03-03-2011 |
20100111605 | Vibratory Compactor Controller - An apparatus for actuating a vibratory mechanism in a vehicle comprising a sensor configured to produce an operational value signal indicative of an operational characteristic of the vehicle; a computing device operable to receive the operational value signal and determine actuation values based at least in part on the operational value signal and to produce a corresponding control signal for selectively actuating the vibratory mechanism; and an input device configured to modify the actuation values during operation of the vehicle. A method for controlling a vibratory mechanism in a vehicle comprising the steps of producing an operational value signal indicative of an operational characteristic of the vehicle; determining actuation values from the operational value signal; modifying actuation values during operation of the vehicle; and signaling the vibratory mechanism to actuate in response to actuation values. | 05-06-2010 |
20100086354 | EXTENSION PLATE FOR A COMPACTOR AND METHOD - An extension plate for use in a compactor includes an elongate body extending between a first surface configured to be coupled to the compactor frame and a second surface configured to be coupled to a support of the compactor. The first surface includes a first opening aligning with an opening into an interior of the compactor. A second opening in at least one of the elongate body or the second surface communicates with the first opening to allow passage of a hose through the extension plate and through the opening in the frame into the interior space. | 04-08-2010 |
20100086353 | COMPACTOR WITH SMOOTH HOSE ROUTING - A compactor with a hose routing includes a drum connected to a frame with a support. The frame defines an interior space of the compactor and includes a plate through which an opening extends to the interior space. A hose assembly extends from an end of the drum through the opening to the interior space without the use of bulkheads. | 04-08-2010 |
20090314571 | Method and arrangement of a plurality of propel pumps in a hydrostatically driven compactor - Fluid control propulsion system, machine including the system, and method of controlling the propulsion of a machine having a compacting drum and a wheel mounted on an axle, drum and axle motors operatively connected with the drum and the axle, respectively, and drum and axle pumps operatively connected to an engine and fluidly connected to the pumps. A fluid control orifice disposed in fluid communication between the pumps is selectively disengageable in response to at least one of operator instruction, sensed pressure differential between the drum and axle pumps, and sensed disparity in rotational speed between the drum and axle. | 12-24-2009 |
20090272591 | Force assist arrangement for a slidable coupling - A force assist arrangement for a slidable coupling, a slidable coupling including the force assist arrangement, and a machine including respectively slidable portions, the slidable coupling, and the force assist arrangement. The force assist arrangement includes at least first and second links pivotably coupled together at one end and to the respectively slidable portions at the other ends, and a force assist device pivotably coupled to the links along their respective lengths. | 11-05-2009 |
20090257825 | Heating Control System for A Screed - A control system for heating a screed assembly of a paving machine is provided. The control system includes a plurality of resistive heating elements positioned adjacent to a screed plate of the screed assembly. An electrical power supply is selectively connected with the resistive heating elements via switches operated by a controller. The controller is responsive to inputs from at least manual switches and temperature sensors. The controller is configured to automatically adjust the temperature of the screed plate by selectively energizing fewer than all of the resistive heating elements at a time. | 10-15-2009 |
20090154995 | Guard Assembly and Related Methods - This disclosure provides a guard assembly and its individual guards for protecting a conveyor system, such as the center conveyor frame. Related methods of installing or removing the individual guards and the guard assembly are also provided. | 06-18-2009 |
20090143952 | POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR COMPACTION VEHICLES AND METHOD - A method for managing power in a hydrostatically driven vehicle includes calculating the power consumption of the vehicle based on the pressure of the compressed fluid in a hydraulic circuit, and the displacement of the pump. An electronic controller further calculates the power output of the engine based on at least one engine operating parameter, and operates to change the power output of the engine based on a difference between the power consumption and the power output. | 06-04-2009 |
20090140548 | SLIDING PANEL ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - A sliding panel arrangement for a vehicle wherein a panel is adapted to be coupled to a vehicle body, at least two linear bearings or at least one longitudinal member being disposed on the panel, the other of the at least two linear bearings or at least one longitudinal member being adapted to be coupled to the vehicle body. The longitudinal member is sized and disposed to slide within the linear bearings, the panel sliding between closed and open positions over a vehicle compartment. | 06-04-2009 |
20090139792 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A HYDROSTATICALLY DRIVEN VEHICLE - A hydrostatically powered vehicle includes an engine operatively associated with a pump that supplies fluid to a propel motor. Based on various sensed and engine operating conditions, a controller determines a desired operating condition for the engine while maintaining the travel speed of the vehicle constant. | 06-04-2009 |
20090133951 | METHOD FOR OPERATING A HYDROSTATICALLY DRIVEN VEHICLE - A hydrostatically driven vehicle has an engine operating a variable displacement propel pump, a displacement of which can vary based on an angle of a rotating swashplate, such that a fluid flow impelled by the pump transfers power to at least one propel motor rotating a wheel of the vehicle. An electronic controller of the vehicle senses an operating parameter of the system, for example, the angle of the rotating swashplate or the direction and speed of rotation of the propel motor with a sensor to yield an actual signal, and relays the actual signal to an electronic controller. The controller determines a desired angle for the rotating swashplate based on the control signal, and compares it to the actual signal from the sensor. Motion of the vehicle is stalled when the angle signal differs from the desired angle by a predetermined extent and for a predetermined period. | 05-28-2009 |
20090127889 | PACKAGING ARRANGEMENT FOR A FLUID TANK FOR A MACHINE - A packaging arrangement for a fluid tank for a machine, including an engine disposed within an engine compartment of a body having a hood selectively disposed over the engine compartment. The engine includes a cooling package having at least one air intake. At least one fluid tank at least partially surrounds the air intake, and a compliant surface is coupled to at least one of the fluid tank and the hood. The compliant surface substantially seals against both the fluid tank and the hood to substantially inhibit air from within the engine compartment from being drawn into the air intake. | 05-21-2009 |
20090127018 | COMPONENT COMBINATION FOR A HYDROSTATICALLY DRIVEN VEHICLE - A hydrostatically driven vehicle includes an engine operating at a first speed and operably connected to a variable displacement pump in fluid communication with a hydraulic circuit. The pump includes a rotating swashplate being adapted to operate at selective angles, which dictate pump displacement ranging from zero to a maximum displacement. The pump is capable of providing a pump flow rate at the first speed when the pump swashplate is set to the maximum displacement, wherein the pump flow rate is greater than the maximum flow rate that may be received by the hydraulic circuit. | 05-21-2009 |