| Vermeer Manufacturing Company Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20150342122 | BALE PROCESSOR - In one embodiment, a bale processor includes a hopper for receiving a bale of baled material, a discharge opening for outputting chopped material, and a processing section below the hopper and intersecting the hopper at an impingement zone. The processing section has primary and secondary rotors. The primary rotor is rotatable and has flails sufficiently long to extend into the impingement zone to chop the material from the bale received in the hopper when the primary rotor is rotated. The secondary rotor is rotatable and has flails to chop the material after being chopped by the primary rotor. The secondary rotor is offset from the primary rotor such that the secondary rotor is on one side of the primary rotor, the discharge opening is on another side of the primary rotor, and the only passage from the secondary rotor to the discharge opening crosses the primary rotor. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150334921 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONTAINING BALES ON A TRANSPORT VEHICLE - Apparatus and methods for securing bales on a transport vehicle are disclosed. The apparatus may include containment arms that extend between bales for containing movement of the bales during transport. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150090817 | Bale Processor With Automatic Control - A bale processor with a bale processing bin that has a bale cutter therein and an engagement section on the bale cutter for supporting part of a bale. A conveyor section supports another part of the bale. The bale processor has a load sensor that senses the load, or something that is a function of the load, on the bale cutter and a controller controls feeding of the bale to the bale cutter and/or the position of the engagement section, based on the function of the load on the cutter. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150090496 | HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING SYSTEM INCLUDING SONDE POSITION DETECTION USING GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEMS - A locator device and methods of use are disclosed. The locator device includes a first locating system configured to generate to sense an electromagnetic field emanating from a sonde associated with a drill head, and a second locating system including a global positioning system. The locator device includes a display on the locating system configured to display a map of the area in which the locator device resides based on a location detected by the global positioning system. The locator device also includes control electronics configured to, upon receipt of an input from a user, record location data in a memory associated with the locator device for use by a horizontal directional drilling control system. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150069158 | Bale Processor - A bale processor of a type for tearing apart a bale of forage material into filamentary material includes a shredder rotor with blades that remove filamentary portions of the bale and delivers such filamentary material directly to a multiple fan blower for blowing such filamentary material directly to and out of a delivery chute. An independent dual discharge feature permits discharge out of either side and/or one or more blowers placed closer to the shredder rotor can be used independently of the dual discharge feature and the multiple fan blower feature. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150014458 | WEAR-RESISTANT CUTTING TEETH, CUTTING HEADS AND RELATED APPARATUS - Apparatus for mulching organic matter such as brush and trees are disclosed. The apparatus have cutting teeth that include cladding for increasing the wear-resistance of the teeth. Cutting heads and vehicles that incorporate such teeth are also disclosed. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20140346263 | Cutting Tooth for a Rotary Cutter - A cutting tooth for a rotary cutter that has a mounting bore arranged such that when a fastener disposed in the mounting bore is used to attach the cutting tooth to a tooth holder, the cutting tooth is attached into the holder so as to pull both a rear trailing surface and a bottom radially inner surface into tight contact with abutting surfaces of the tooth holder. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140338984 | HOLE OPENER BEARING ARRANGEMENT - The present disclosure provides a back reamer roller cone that is configured so that the bearings assemblies therein can be relatively easily removed and replaced. Methods of replacing the bearing assemblies in a back reamer are also provided. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140319260 | CUTTER ASSEMBLY AND ADJUSTABLE CUTTER FOR USE IN COMMINUTING APPARATUS - A cutter for use with a comminuting apparatus includes a body, a body slot, and a bore hole. The body has first and second opposing surfaces, a first edge adjoining the first and second surfaces, and a cutting edge opposite the first edge. The body extends from the cutting edge to the first edge. The body slot extends through the cutter body from the first surface to the second surface. The bore hole is enclosed by the first and second surfaces, and extends from the body slot to the first edge. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319258 | MOUNTING BLOCK FOR ATTACHING A REDUCING ELEMENT TO A ROTARY DRUM - Mounting blocks for attaching reducing elements to a rotary drum of a comminuting apparatus are disclosed. The mounting blocks may be mounted in multiple positions to vary the bite of the reducing elements of the rotary drum. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319250 | ADJUSTABLE ANVIL FOR COMMINUTING APPARATUS - The field of the disclosure relates to anvils for comminuting apparatus such as grinders or chippers. In some embodiments, the anvil is adjustable in length to maintain a clearance between a comminuting drum and a shear edge of the anvil. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140284111 | HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides a drilling machine configuration and related method that avoids drilling mud from contaminating hydraulic fluid that flows through the drive system of the machine. The disclosed system and method provides a drilling mud anti-contamination system that requires infrequent service and a system wherein the service can be quickly and easily performed. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140283950 | STUMP CUTTER - The present disclosure provides a device and method that enable the efficient reduction of stumps. In one embodiment the stump removal methods and devices according to the present disclosure allow the operator to have a clear view of the work area during operation, and the ability to move the reduction device through a wide range of motion during operation. In one embodiment, the material reduction tool pivots relative to the chassis in the vertical plane about multiple pivot points. In some embodiments the device includes a retractable auxiliary control panel located at the end of the device opposite the material reduction tool. The control panel enables the operator to direct the movement of the device from the end of the device and thereby enable the device to maneuver through narrow spaces. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140219725 | TUNNELING APPARATUS - A tunneling apparatus includes a drill head and a steering shell. The drill head includes a main body having a distal end and an oppositely disposed proximal end. The steering shell is disposed at the distal end of the drill head and is moveable relative to the main body of the drill head. The drill head includes structure that assists in maintaining a precise line even in soft drilling conditions. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140219511 | Derivative Imaging for Subsurface Object Detection - A series of scans is generated for a subsurface and a derivative image is created using the series of subsurface images. One or more tests are performed on the derivative image, and a subsurface object is detected based on the one or more tests. A sensor is configured to generate a series of scans for a subsurface and a processor is coupled to the sensor. The processor is configured to execute stored program instructions that cause the processor to generate a series of images of the subsurface using the series of scans, create a derivative image using the series of subsurface images, perform one or more tests on the derivative image, and detect a subsurface object based on the one or more tests. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140166790 | Method and Apparatus for Maintaining a Feed Roller Parallel to an Infeed Floor Through its Range of Motion - An infeed system for a horizontal grinder intended to process loose, unconsolidated materials includes a feed table with a chain conveyor on a floor and sides to support the material to be processed. The infeed system further includes an upper feed roller configured for powered rotation so that the outer surface moves in coordination with the chain conveyor to move material to a grinding chamber. The feed roller is positioned between the sides to minimize the potential for materials to become wedged or trapped. A hydraulic circuit and control system to control the position/orientation of the feed roller to keep it parallel to the feed table. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140151123 | Micro Tunneling Machine - The present disclosure relates to a tunneling apparatus including a drill head including a main body and a steering member that is movable relative to the main body. The tunneling apparatus includes a steering target attached to the main body. The tunneling apparatus also includes a camera mounted within the main body. Further, the tunneling apparatus includes a shell position indicator mounted to the steering member in the field of view of the camera. The shell position indicator is adapted to indicate relative movement between the target and the shell position indicator. Additionally, the position indicator frames the target when no relative movement between the target and shell position indicator is indicated. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140144707 | DRILLING MACHINE AND METHOD - The present disclosure provides a machine capable of drilling into the ground at a wide range of angles relative to the ground surface. The present disclosure also provides novel drilling methods. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140102799 | Dual Drive Directional Drilling System - One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a dual drive drilling system having a plurality of drill rods that make up a drill string and a steering element for controlling the path of the drill string. The dual drive drilling system also includes a drill bit located near the end of the drill string, a first rotational drive for controlling the rotation of a steering element, and a second rotational drive for controlling the rotation of a drill bit. Further the dual drive drilling system also includes a joystick capable of moving along a first and second axis for controlling both the first and second rotational drives, wherein the movement of the joystick along the first axis controls rotation of the first rotational drive, and the movement of the joystick along the second axis controls rotation of the second rotational drive. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140031185 | WOOD CHIPPER FEED ROLLER - A feed system that is configured to more effectively grab and pull brush and tree materials into a chipper is provided. The system of the present disclosure is configured such that a large, heavy tree trunk can be continuously pulled into the chipper. The system includes two feed rollers one above the other in an offset arrangement. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140007465 | SURFACE EXCAVATION MACHINE - The present disclosure relates to a low height pivot arrangement for allowing an excavation tool of a surface excavation machine to be pivoted between an upper transport position and a lower excavating position. The low height pivot arrangement assists in reducing a moment arm of the excavation tool when the excavation tool is raised during non-excavating operations. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20130341449 | ANVIL UNIT FOR A MATERIAL REDUCING MACHINE - A reducing machine is disclosed. The reducing machine includes a rotational reducing component, a power in-feed system for feeding material toward the rotational reducing component, and a mill box at least partially surrounding the rotational reducing component. The reducing machine also includes an anvil unit that can be inserted into the mill box and removed from the mill box. The anvil unit includes a ramp that bridges a gap between the power in-feed and the rotational reducing component. The anvil unit also includes an anvil main body having a first end positioned adjacent the power in-feed and a second end positioned adjacent the rotational reducing component. The anvil unit further includes first and second spaced-apart shear edges positioned adjacent to the second end of the anvil main body. The first and second shear edges cooperate with the rotational reducing component to provide consecutive shearing actions as reducing elements of the rotational reducing component move initially past the first shear edge and then subsequently past the second shear edge. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130248255 | HARD FACING CONFIGURATION FOR A DRILLING TOOL - Bits configured for drilling rock that are of the type that includes a plurality of teeth supported in pockets that are on a cutting face that is driven to rotate. The pockets are configured to allow the teeth to passively rotate while in the pockets. The present disclosure provides a bit having hardfacing around the pockets and related methods. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130240652 | GRINDER WITH ADJUSTABLE SCREENS - A grinder having an adjustable screen arrangement. The adjustable screen arrangement including two screens independently positionable in a number of positions relative to a grinding drum. Each screen further having a leading end independently positionable relative a trailing end of the screen. The adjustable screen arrangement allowing for selectively varied clearances between the screens and the grinding drum. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130240269 | LATCHING ROD BOX - A drilling machine including a chassis and a primary rod box mounted on the chassis, which includes a rod box interface mechanism positioned adjacent a top of the primary rod box for facilitating interfacing the primary rod box with a supplemental rod box is provided. Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a rod box interface mechanism that automatically secures a rod box to a drilling machine as the rod box is lowered in place on the drilling machine. The rod box interface mechanism can in some embodiments be used to secure a supplemental rod box to a top of a primary rod box that is attached to a chassis of the drilling machine and can be used to secure a rod box directly to the chassis of the drilling machine. A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to self-aligning features intended to guide a rod box into place on a drilling machine as the rod box is lowered onto the drilling machine. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130200189 | DEFLECTION STRUCTURE FOR TUB GRINDER - A tub grinder includes a rotatable tub positioned above a floor; a grinder that has cutters defining a circular reducing boundary when the grinder is rotated in a reducing direction; and a deflection structure positioned near the floor above the grinder. The deflection structure includes first and second deflecting portions. The second deflection structure is oriented closer to horizontal than the first deflection structure. At least part of the second deflecting portion is located below a top, dead center of the reducing boundary of the grinder. The deflecting structure limits the trajectory of material ejected from the grinder to a departure angle of about 25 degrees. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130200188 | SIZING SCREENS FOR COMMINUTING MACHINES - A grinder for grinding relatively loose materials includes a reducing unit and a screen arrangement. The arcuate screen defines a plurality of tracks of apertures that extend in a cutting direction of the cutters. In some cases, only one respective cutter passes over each track and each cutter passes over only the respective one of the tracks. The width of a cutter may be greater than a width of the apertures of a track. The apertures of the screen arrangement may form chevron patterns. The screens may be clamped to a frame by coupling members extending through notches in the screen. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130193247 | Bale Processor for Bales of All Shapes - A bale processor ( | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130187444 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING A WHEELED VEHICLE TO A TRACKED VEHICLE - The invention relates to a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that may be converted into a multi-track self-propelled vehicle using one or more track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a carriage with a main frame that support forward and rearward idler wheels and a plurality of centrally located, inner bogey wheels, and an outrigger beam that supports a plurality of centrally located, outer bogey wheels. One of the idler wheels is movably connected to the main frame and is movable by an actuator. The carriage is removably connected to a spindle of a vehicle by an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly includes a first or lower section and a second or upper section that generally encircle a portion of the spindle housing, and which are connected thereto by a plurality of fastening elements. A sprocket is operatively connected to a wheel hub of the spindle either directly or indirectly by way of a spacer element. A flexible endless track is entrained about the idler wheels, the bogey wheels and the sprocket. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130161428 | REDUCING COMPONENT FOR A COMMINUTION MACHINE - A reducing component is disclosed herein. The reducing component includes a block-style reducer including a height, a width and a depth. The block-style reducer includes first and second ends separated by the height, first and second sides separated by the width and front and back sides separated by the depth. The block-style reducer also includes a first reducing edge that extends across the width of the block-style reducer at a location adjacent to the first end of the block-style reducer. The reducing component also includes a blade-style reducer that projects forwardly from the block-style reducer at a location adjacent the second side of the block-style reducer. The blade-style reducer includes a second reducing edge that extends primarily along the height of the block-style reducer. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130161427 | APPARATUS FOR COMMINUTING FIBROUS MATERIALS - The present disclosure relates to a comminution apparatus including a rotational reducing unit that is rotatable about an axis of rotation. The rotational reducing unit includes a plurality of material reducing components that are mounted to a carrier. The material reducing components are rotated by the carrier in a first direction about the axis of rotation. The comminution apparatus also includes a screen at least partially surrounding the rotational reducing unit. The screen defines a plurality of sizing slots that have slot lengths and slot widths. The slots are elongated along the slot lengths such that the slot lengths are longer than the slot widths. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130113274 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING A WHEELED VEHICLE TO A TRACKED VEHICLE - The invention relates to track systems | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130113273 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING A WHEELED VEHICLE TO A TRACKED VEHICLE - The invention relates to track systems | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130113272 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING A WHEELED VEHICLE TO A TRACKED VEHICLE - The invention relates to track systems | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130098811 | MATERIAL REDUCING APPARATUS HAVING FEATURES FOR ENHANCING REDUCED MATERIAL SIZE UNIFORMITY - The present disclosure relates to a material reducing machine including a rotary reducing component positioned at least partially within a reducing chamber. A sizing screen defines a portion of the reducing chamber and extends at least partially around the rotary reducing component. Material catches are disclosed for preventing elongated strips of material from snaking longitudinally through the sizing screen without being adequately reduced in length. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130091743 | MACHINE ATTACHMENT BASED SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides a machine configured so that its ground speed is at least in part dependent on the measured force that is applied to an attachment attached thereto. The present disclosure also provides an attachment for a machine that is configured to provide feedback to the machine it is configured to be attached to, wherein the feedback is representative of the force applied to the attachment. The present disclosure also provides a method of automatically controlling the ground speed of a machine based on feedback measured in an attachment attached to the machine. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130084131 | TAPERED THREAD CONFIGURATION WITH IMPROVED DURABILITY - Underground drilling operation often requires connecting a drill tool (e.g., drill bit, backreamer, etc.) to a drill string. It is desirable to connect the drill tools to a drill string in a manner that facilitates quick and easy assembly and disassembly. Low torque coupling, commonly referred to as “torque-less” connection, can provide such functionality. The useful life and strength of such connections can be improved upon. The present disclosure provides a low torque coupling with improved strength and durability. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130068490 | TWO PIPE HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides a drill drive unit and drill string make up and break up unit with a method for use with a dual pipe drill string configuration. The drill drive unit is mounted to a single carriage and includes an outer drive spindle in a position fixed to the carriage with inner drive spindle configured to rotate independent of the outer drive spindle while being able to move longitudinally at least 12 inches relative to the outer drive spindle. The method involves connecting and disconnecting inner shafts and outer shafts of the dual pipe drill string. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130056233 | DUST SUPPRESSION ARRANGEMENT FOR HEAVY EXCAVATION EQUIPMENT - An excavation apparatus is disclosed. The excavation apparatus includes a chassis having a length that extends from a front end to a rear end of the chassis. The chassis also has a width oriented perpendicular to the length. A boom is pivotally attached to the rear end of the chassis. A cutting component mounted to the boom. A shroud structure at least partially covers the cutting component. A source of vacuum is in fluid communication with an interior of the shroud structure for drawing air containing dust from the interior of the shroud structure. A filter filters the air drawn from the interior of the shroud structure by the source of vacuum. A dust barrier projects downwardly from the shroud structure and extends along at least a portion of a perimeter of the shroud structure. The dust barrier has a construction that is pervious to debris generated by the cutting component and that provides gradually reduced restriction to inward air flow through the dust barrier as the dust barrier extends downwardly from the shroud structure. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130043085 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING A WHEELED VEHICLE TO A TRACKED VEHICLE - The invention relates to a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that may be converted into a multi-track self-propelled vehicle using one or more track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a carriage with a main frame that support forward and rearward idler wheels and a plurality of centrally located, inner bogey wheels, and an outrigger beam that supports a plurality of centrally located, outer bogey wheels. A sprocket is operatively connected to a wheel hub of the spindle either directly or indirectly by way of a spacer element. A flexible endless track is entrained about the idler wheels, the bogey wheels and the sprocket. | 02-21-2013 |
| 20130008723 | DRILLING APPARATUS WITH SHUTTER - The present disclosure relates to a drilling apparatus including a cutting unit defining at least one through-hole that provides fluid communication between a distal side and a proximal side of the cutting unit. The cutting unit includes a plurality of cutting elements at the distal side of the cutting unit. The cutting unit also includes a shutter for selectively opening and blocking the through-hole of the cutting unit. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130008718 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND INTERFACE FOR A TUNNELING APPARATUS - A tunneling apparatus is disclosed. The tunneling apparatus includes a drill string formed by a plurality of drill string sections. The drill string has a proximal end and a distal end. The tunneling apparatus also includes a drill head mounted at the distal end of the drill string, the drill head including a cutting unit, a rotational driver that provides torque for rotating the cutting unit, and a thrust driver for applying thrust to the drill string. The tunneling apparatus further includes a vacuum system for withdrawing spoils generated by the cutting unit during operation of the tunneling apparatus and a drilling fluid system for providing drilling fluid to adjacent the cutting unit during operation of the tunneling apparatus. The tunneling apparatus includes a control system that allows an operator to select between a drilling mode and a break-out mode. The tunneling apparatus also includes a control interface that allows an operator to monitor vacuum pressure which concurrently controlling operation of various systems of the tunneling apparatus. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20120267170 | TAPERED THREAD CONFIGURATION WITH IMPROVED DURABILITY - Underground drilling operation often requires connecting a drill tool (e.g., drill bit, backreamer, etc.) to a drill string. It is desirable to connect the drill tools to a drill string in a manner that facilitates quick and easy assembly and disassembly. Low torque coupling, commonly referred to as “torque-less” connection, can provide such functionality. The useful life and strength of such connections can be improved upon. The present disclosure provides a low torque coupling with improved strength and durability. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120241221 | MICROTUNNELLING SYSTEM AND APPARATUS - A microtunnelling apparatus and system that includes an external drive system having rotational and linear thrust drive means, a drill head section having drill rotor and drill rod and connecting to intermediate drill rods allowing extension of the boring hole created by the drill head section driven by the drive system. The drill head includes a modular construction having a plurality of circular disc like elements, a bearing module, a steering module, a spacer module, and a mounting module, for axial alignment and abutment and mounting within a cylindrical steering shell. Directional steering of the drill head includes a plurality of substantially radially extending channels in steering module, each with an hydraulically movable protuberance movable by control means to redirect the outer steering casing and thereby redirect the drill head section mounted on the distal end of the drill rods. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120102791 | SHEAR RESISTANT EXCAVATION COMPONENT - An excavation component is disclosed herein. The excavation component includes a cutter structure carrier and a cutter structure carried by the cutter structure carrier. The excavation component also includes a fastener for securing the cutter structure to the cutter structure carrier. The cutter structure carrier and the cutter structure have an interlocking geometry for transferring shear between the cutter structure carrier and the cutter structure so as to reduce an amount of shear applied to the fastener during excavation operations. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120043403 | MATERIAL REDUCING MACHINE CONVERTIBLE BETWEEN A GRINDING CONFIGURATION AND A CHIPPING CONFIGURATION - The present disclosure relates to a material reducing machine convertible between a grinding configuration and a chipping configuration. The material reducing machine includes a rotary component that is rotatable about an axis of rotation, the rotary component defining a grinding configuration boundary that extends at least partially around the axis of rotation. The material reducing machine also includes a plurality of hammers secured to the rotary component, the hammers including end portions that project outwardly beyond the grinding configuration boundary of the rotary component. Furthermore, the material reducing machine includes a boundary enlarging structure that mounts over the rotary component, the boundary enlarging structure defining a chipping configuration boundary that extends at least partially around the axis of rotation when the boundary enlarging structure is mounted over the rotary component, the chipping configuration boundary being positioned outside the grinding configuration boundary. The boundary enlarging structure is not mounted over the rotary component when the material reducing machine is in the grinding configuration and the boundary enlarging structure is mounted over the rotary component when the material reducing machine is in the chipping configuration. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120012229 | INDEXABLE STUMP CUTTER TOOTH - A stump cutter assembly that has a driven wheel with first and wheel side surfaces, and a first stump cutter tooth assembly operatively attaches to the first wheel side surface and a second stump cutter tooth assembly operatively attaches to the second wheel side surface. The first stump cutter tooth assembly includes a first stump cutter tooth and a first bi-directional pocket member that non-rotatably retains the first stump cutter tooth. The second stump cutter tooth assembly includes a second stump cutter tooth and a second bi-directional pocket member that non-rotatably retains the second stump cutter tooth. The first stump cutter tooth assembly is in general transverse alignment with the second stump cutter tooth assembly. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20110192923 | WOOD CHIPPER INFEED CHUTE - An infeed chute that is configured to more effectively and safely guide brush into a chipper is provided. The infeed chute is configured to guide brush upwards, thereby minimizing the occurrence of branches inadvertently catching the bottom edge of the chute. The infeed chute is also configured so that operators can conveniently load the chipper while being along a side of the chipper. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110174545 | DRILLING MACHINE AND METHOD - The present disclosure provides a machine capable of drilling into the ground at a wide range of angles relative to the ground surface. The present disclosure also provides novel drilling methods. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110078929 | EXCAVATION MACHINE WITH AUTO REVERSE - The present disclosure provides an excavation machine that is configured to minimize or otherwise account for the unintended stoppage (i.e., jamming/stalling) of a digger tool. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure a machine is provided with one or more drive systems that automatically stop and reverse to avoid excavation tool jamming. The machine and methods of the present disclosure provide an efficient method and machine for excavation operations. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110073692 | BELT TENSIONING APPARATUS - A belt tensioning system configured to more effectively maintain the proper tension in a belt that can be engaged and disengaged. Proper tension in the belt is maintained even if the belt stretches or contracts by including a spring biased member between a tension wheel and a pivot frame. The spring member is preloaded such that when the belt stretches the tension wheel is biased against the belt by the force of the spring. Also, by selectively engaging the tension system one can avoid overloading the engine without the need to incorporate a clutch. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073691 | FEED CONTROL ARRANGEMENT - A feed control arrangement for controlling the infeed of materials into a machine such as a wood chipper is provided. The feed control arrangement includes a control lever and an emergency stop bar. The control lever and emergency stop bar can be selectively activated to effectively control the infeed of material into the machine. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110006142 | SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING THE POSITION OF A FEED ROLLER - A feed system that is configured to more effectively grab and pull brush and tree materials into a chipper is provided. The system of the present disclosure is configured such that a large, heavy tree trunk can be effectively pulled into the chipper. The system includes a hydraulic pump that applies variable down pressure on a feed roller. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20100314001 | STUMP CUTTER - The present disclosure provides a device and method that enable the efficient reduction of stumps. In one embodiment the stump removal methods and devices according to the present disclosure allow the operator to have a clear view of the work area during operation, and the ability to move the reduction device through a wide range of motion during operation. In one embodiment, the material reduction tool pivots relative to the chassis in the vertical plane about multiple pivot points. In some embodiments the device includes a retractable auxiliary control panel located at the end of the device opposite the material reduction tool. The control panel enables the operator to direct the movement of the device from the end of the device and thereby enable the device to maneuver through narrow spaces. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100294869 | WOOD CHIPPER FEED ROLLER - A feed system that is configured to more effectively grab and pull brush and tree materials into a chipper is provided. The system of the present disclosure is configured such that a large, heavy tree trunk can be continuously pulled into the chipper. The system includes two feed rollers one above the other in an offset arrangement. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100294868 | CHIPPER DRUM WITH INTEGRAL BLOWER - The chipper drum of the present disclosure is configured to maximize its cutting width while decreasing its overall size. In particular, the chipper drum of the present disclosure includes air deflectors recessed on the ends of the drum that are configured to generate the air flow necessary to blow chips out of the chipper. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100257757 | MACHINE ATTACHMENT BASED SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides a machine configured so that its ground speed is at least in part dependent on the measured force that is applied to an attachment attached thereto. The present disclosure also provides an attachment for a machine that is configured to provide feedback to the machine it is configured to be attached to, wherein the feedback is representative of the force applied to the attachment. The present disclosure also provides a method of automatically controlling the ground speed of a machine based on feedback measured in an attachment attached to the machine. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100230168 | UNDERGROUND BORING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING UNDERGROUND BORING - A method and system for controlling a horizontal directional drilling machine having a boring tool. A rate of rotation and a rate of thrust are selected by an operator. Controls allow an automatic boring operation mode to be initiated to maintain the selected rate of rotation and thrust without further input from the operator. Periodically, when the rotation and thrust are interrupted, such as to modify the drill string, the automatic boring operation mode is interrupted. The automatic boring operation mode may be resumed without requiring the operator to select the rate of rotation and rate of thrust. The rate of rotation is resumed before the rate of thrust to reduce drill string shock loads and increase drilling performance. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100117282 | VISE FOR A DIRECTIONAL DRILLING MACHINE - A vise apparatus includes a vise die assembly that is pivotally mounted to tong heads of a vise mechanism. The vise die assembly includes a plurality of vise die and a mounting block having a first face and an oppositely disposed second face. Each of the plurality of vise die includes a gripping surface. A first vise die of the plurality of vise die is mounted to the first face of the mounting block while a second vise die is mounted to the second face. The first and second vise die are mounted such that the gripping surface of first vise die faces opposite the gripping surface of the second vise die. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100044061 | VIBRATORY PLOW ASSEMBLY - The present disclosure generally relates to a method and apparatus for installing utility lines underground by using a vibratory plow. One aspect of the invention relates to using a resilient member attached to a vibrator assembly, where the resilient member stores the kinetic energy of the vibrator assembly downward movement. The kinetic energy is then released during the upward movement. The energy is applied to a plow blade so as to improve the efficiency of the plow blade as it is drawn through the ground. Another aspect of the invention relates to connecting the resilient member to the ground via a set of wheels that do not appreciably deflect during the downward movement. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20090308669 | QUAD TRACK VEHICLE - The quad track vehicle includes a chassis including a front end, a rear end and a left side and a right side. The chassis is supported on a plurality of tracks. Each of the tracks defines a generally triangular shape. The plurality of tracks includes a front left track at the left side of the chassis, a front right track at the right side of the chassis, a rear left track at the left side of the chassis rearward of the front left track and a rear right track at the right side of the chassis rearward of the front right track. The rear tracks have rearward portions that project a first distance rearwardly beyond the rear end of the chassis. The front tracks have forward portions that project a second distance forwardly beyond the front end of the chassis. The second distance is less than the first distance. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090301783 | MICROTUNNELLING SYSTEM AND APPARATUS - A microtunnelling apparatus and system that includes an external drive system having rotational and linear thrust drive means, a drill head section having drill rotor and drill rod and connecting to intermediate drill rods allowing extension of the boring hole created by the drill head section driven by the drive system. The drill head includes a modular construction having a plurality of circular disc like elements, a bearing module, a steering module, a spacer module, and a mounting module, for axial alignment and abutment and mounting within a cylindrical steering shell. Directional steering of the drill head includes a plurality of substantially radially extending channels in steering module, each with an hydraulically movable protuberance movable by control means to redirect the outer steering casing and thereby redirect the drill head section mounted on the distal end of the drill rods. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090260264 | TRENCHER ATTACHMENT - The present disclosure provides a system and method of creating trenches of various widths, including widths that are substantially greater than the width of the boom head or even the chassis. According to the trencher system of the present disclosure, the boom is designed so that it can be easily configured to create a trench of a first width and subsequently create a trench of a second width that is different than the first width. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090183399 | Machine with adapter frame for weight stabilization and related method - A mobile trencher machine having an upper assembly, a ground drive assembly, and an adapter frame positioned between and coupled to each of the upper assembly and the ground drive assembly. The ground drive assembly being positionable in one of a number of mounting positions relative to the upper assembly, including a forward position, a rearward position, and a central position. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090158624 | TRENCHER CONTROL SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides a trencher control system that is reliable and easy to service. The trencher control system according to the present disclosure includes an improved wiring layout that, in part, results in a trencher that is more reliable and also easier to repair. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, control nodes of the control system are located near the trencher components that they control. The layout of the control nodes significantly reduces the overall wiring, and particularly reduces the amount of wiring extending to and from the cab. A method of controlling a trencher remotely is also provided. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090152010 | MICROTUNNELLING SYSTEM AND APPARATUS - A microtunnelling apparatus and system that includes an external drive system having rotational and linear thrust drive means, a drill head section having drill rotor and drill rod and connecting to intermediate drill rods allowing extension of the boring hole created by the drill head section driven by the drive system. The drill head includes a modular construction having a plurality of circular disc like elements, a bearing module, a steering module, a spacer module, and a mounting module, for axial alignment and abutment and mounting within a cylindrical steering shell. Directional steering of the drill head includes a plurality of substantially radially extending channels in steering module, each with an hydraulically movable protuberance movable by control means to redirect the outer steering casing and thereby redirect the drill head section mounted on the distal end of the drill rods. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090152008 | MICROTUNNELLING SYSTEM AND APPARATUS - A microtunnelling apparatus and system that includes an external drive system having rotational and linear thrust drive means, a drill head section having drill rotor and drill rod and connecting to intermediate drill rods allowing extension of the boring hole created by the drill head section driven by the drive system. The drill head includes a modular construction having a plurality of circular disc like elements, a bearing module, a steering module, a spacer module, and a mounting module, for axial alignment and abutment and mounting within a cylindrical steering shell. Directional steering of the drill head includes a plurality of substantially radially extending channels in steering module, each with an hydraulically movable protuberance movable by control means to redirect the outer steering casing and thereby redirect the drill head section mounted on the distal end of the drill rods. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090090800 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SHAPED OPENINGS IN A GRINDER SCREEN - A shaped opening is provided in the screen apparatus of a grinder. The shaped opening helps accumulate, gather and congregate materials that have not been reduced sufficiently in size. The shaped opening is located on the trailing edge of the screen opening. By being located on the trailing edge, lodged materials are urged into the shaped area during the grinding function. As more lodged materials are urged into the shaped area, the materials are congregated sufficiently for the cutters to engage the material and pull it back into the grinding chamber (and out of the screen). | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090090434 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF A STUMP CUTTER - A stump cutter controller and operator presence system includes one or more capacitive sensors in each of the three control levers that control movement of the cutter wheel. A sensor circuit measures changes in the capacitance of the sensors. The controller automatically disengages a drive clutch and applies a brake to the cutter wheel when the controller senses that an operator has left the operating station—which is assumed when the operator has not touched any one of the three control levers of the operator station for a predetermined time. The controller logic is set to allow the clutch to remain engaged during a delay period, of predetermined duration, to permit the operator to move a hand off of one control lever to another control lever. Also, a grace period, of varying duration based on the speed of the cutter wheel, may be provided during which the clutch is reengaged if an operator returns to the controls. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090079444 | APPARATUS AND METHOD OF CAPACITIVELY SENSING OPERATOR PRESENCE FOR A STUMP CUTTER - An operator detection and presence device includes a conductive sensor and a guard electrode. The sensor and electrode are physically located and electrically connected in a manner which helps the detection circuit measure if an operator's hand is on the handle or if the change in capacitance is due to water. The sensor and electrode are preferably physically located in the handle spaced apart from one another, where the sensor is located in an area that the operator will touch. The electrode is located in an area that the operator will not generally touch. A detection circuit is connected to the sensor and electrode for measuring whether the capacitance of the sensor has changed. The electrode is used to avoid false detections and/or the ability to detect of operator presence. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090072062 | Apparatus and method for supporting a removable anvil - A grinding machine having a mounting arrangement and an anvil. The grinding machine generally including a feed table and a grinding drum positioned within a mill box. The mounting arrangement being configured to support an end of the feed table and the anvil. The anvil including a wedge-shaped portion and having a length. The length of the anvil being configured to extend beyond sides of the mill box. | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090036271 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DECELERATING A MATERIAL REDUCTION TOOL - One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a material reduction machine including a clutch configured and arranged to engage and disengage a material reduction tool with an engine based in response to a control unit. The control unit is configured to decelerate the material reduction tool by maintaining the clutch engaged with the engine during an engine speed reduction period. Another embodiment of the present disclosure also provides a method of decelerating a material reduction tool of a material reduction machine. The method includes the steps of maintaining engagement between the material reduction tool and an engine after the engine enters an engine speed reduction mode, and disengaging the material reduction device from the engine before the engine rpm drops below a predetermined level. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090014215 | Apparatus and method of loading a rod box for a horizontal directional drill - A biased door member is provided in an external wall of a drill rod supply magazine mounted on a horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machine. The door member swings inwardly from a first position parallel to the external wall to a second position within the distal column. At least one cut-out is formed in the external wall at the bottom of the retaining guides located at the longitudinal ends of the magazine. The cut-out creates a window through which the added drill rod is inserted. In operation, a drill rod is moved through the biased door member and window cut-outs into the distal column. The pocket of a rod transfer mechanism is positioned below the last column, and a rod lifter lowers the added drill rod into the pocket. The rod transfer mechanism then moves the added drill rod into alignment with the drill string. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20080277509 | GRINDING DRUM WITH A CUTTER ARRANGEMENT FOR A DIRECTION OF ROTATION - Grinding members on a grinding drum are arranged to move the material to be reduced laterally across the drum. The drum may be used in a tub grinder where the tub is configured to rotate about a vertical axis. In a tub grinder environment, the drum extends through the grinding floor, is configured to rotate about a horizontal axis, and includes cutters arranged in a right-handed helical pattern on the drum. | 11-13-2008 |
