Vacuum system with improved mobility

Abstract

A self-propelled mobile vacuum system comprising a vacuum source that provides suction for the removal of debris, a collection tank for storing debris collected by said vacuum source suction, and at least two rolling drive systems for maneuvering the vacuum system within a work space. A motor provides power to the vacuum source and the two rolling drive systems, and the system has an overall width within the range of 24 to 48 inches, an overall length within the range of 5 to 10 feet, and an overall height within the range of 60 to 84 inches.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates generally to an earth reduction vacuum system for removing soil to expose underground utilities (such as electrical and cable services, water and sewage services, etc.), and more particularly to a vacuum system with improved mobility.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]With the increased use of underground utilities, it has become more critical to locate and verify the placement of buried utilities before performing digging or excavation work. If the location of a buried utility is unknown, the use of conventional digging and excavation methods such as shovels, post hole diggers, powered excavators, and backhoes can cut, break, or otherwise damage the lines during excavation.[0003]Devices have been previously developed to create holes in the ground to non-destructively expose underground utilities to view. One design uses high pressure air delivered through a tool to loosen soil and a vacuum system to vacuum away the dirt after it is l...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]In still another embodiment, a self-propelled mobile vacuum system comprises a collection tank with a first low-pressure intake port and a first high-pressure port defined though the collection tank's external wall. A vacuum source with a second low-pressure intake port is operatively connected to the first high-pressure outlet port and creates a low-pressure condition inside the collection tank relative to ambient air pressure. The system also includes an elongated suction implement detachably connected to the first low pressure intake port for ch

Problems solved by technology

If the location of a buried utility is unknown, the use of conventional digging and excavation methods such as shovels, post hole diggers, powered excavators, and backhoes can cut, break, or otherwise damage the lines during excavation.

Prior art vacuum systems are typically very large and heavy, and therefore must be mounted onto the bed of a carrier vehicle such as a heavy duty truck or trailer.

One disadvantage of such prior art vacuum systems is that the work space must be large enough to accommodate the size of the system and its carrier vehicle.

When working in small areas or areas with access points too small for a large vehicle, it may be impossible to position both the vacuum system and the vehicle in close proximity to the work area.

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