Additive dosing systems including liquid additives and vacuum excavation apparatuses incorporating same

Abstract

A vacuum system includes a vacuum conduit configured to be positioned within an excavation site, a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, and a separation chamber in flow communication with the vacuum conduit. The vacuum conduit is upstream of the separation chamber and the separation chamber is upstream of the vacuum pump. An additive dosing assembly is fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber. An additive storage device is fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly and stores liquid additive. A sensor detects spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit. The additive dosing assembly is configured to provide the liquid additive to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber to enable the liquid additive to be mixed with the spoil material.

Description

31681-791 (3254WO01)ADDITIVE DOSING SYSTEMS INCLUDING LIQUID ADDITIVES AND VACUUM EXCAVATION APPARATUSES INCORPORATING SAMECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 717,099. filed November 6, 2024. which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety .FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The field of the disclosure relates to vacuum excavation apparatuses and, in particular, mobile vacuum excavation apparatuses that include additive dosing assemblies for adding liquid additives, such as liquid solidification additives, to assist in solidifying a portion of the spoils.BACKGROUND

[0003] Vacuum excavation involves directing high pressure fluid, such as water, at an excavation site while removing cut earthen or spoil material and water by a vacuum system. Sites may be excavated to locate utilities or to cut trenches. The spoil material is removed by entraining the spoil material in an airstream generated by the vacuum system. After being entrained in the airstream, some spoil material may be excessively fluidic for efficient disposal.

[0004] Spoil material can vary in moisture content and structure (e.g., clay clumps, sand, silt, rocks, and the like) and may have various consistencies. In some cases the spoils are solid-like, with a thickened consistency. In some cases, the spoils may have a higher moisture content and may be classified as a liquid.

[0005] Liquid spoils are relatively expensive to dispose compared to solid spoil material. Tightened environmental regulations impose restricted disposal protocols for liquid waste. For example, liquid spoil material must be disposed of at31681-791 (3254WO01) designated waste treatment facilities and / or disposal stations that are properly equipped to process liquid waste. Furthermore, transporting liquid spoil material from the excavation site to a designated disposal location may present considerable challenges and requires specific equipment to prevent leakage of the liquid waste during transportation.

[0006] At least some spoil processing methods convert high moisture content spoil material into a material with a thickened, solid-like consistency. Conventionally, a solidification additive (e.g., any additive that causes the mixture to thicken and / or increase in viscosity) is mixed with the high-moisture spoil material to create a more solid-like material. The spoil material is typically transferred to a separate mixing tank where the additive is mixed with the spoils.

[0007] Conventionally, the solidification additive is added to the spoils after they are discharged by the vacuum excavator (i.e., the spoils are discharged from the vacuum excavator to a separate holding tank or device for adding the solidification additive). Conventionally, solidification additives have been dry. or powder based, such as dry cement, dry bentonite, and / or dry superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). This dry or powder additive can be a challenging material to handle - thereby requiring the solidification additive to be incorporated into the spoils after discharge from the vacuum excavator machine, thereby creating inefficiencies. Dosing the spoils with the proper amount of solidification additive and mixing the spoils with the additive are also challenging.

[0008] New7liquid SAPs allow7for injection of solidification additives within the vacuum excavator system.

[0009] A need exists for a vacuum excavation apparatus that includes a solidification additive system that controls the addition and mixing of liquid solidification additive with the spoil material within the vacuum excavator such that thickening the spoil material allows the spoil material to be disposed of by protocols established for disposal of solid waste.31681-791 (3254WO01)SUMMARY

[0010] In one aspect, a vacuum system is provided. The vacuum system includes a vacuum conduit configured to be positioned within an excavation site, a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, and a separation chamber in flow communication with the vacuum conduit. The vacuum conduit is upstream of the separation chamber and the separation chamber is upstream of the vacuum pump. The vacuum system further includes an additive dosing assembly fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber, an additive storage device fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, the additive storage device configured to store liquid additive, and at least one sensor configured to detect a spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit. The additive dosing assembly is configured to provide the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber to enable the liquid additive to be mixed with the spoil material removed from the excavation site via the vacuum conduit.

[0011] In another aspect, a mobile vacuum excavation apparatus is provided. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus includes a truck body mounted on a chassis, wheels connected to the chassis to transport the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus, and a vacuum system mounted on the chassis. The vacuum system includes a vacuum conduit configured to be positioned within an excavation site, a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, and a separation chamber in flow communication with the vacuum conduit. The vacuum conduit is upstream of the separation chamber and the separation chamber is upstream of the vacuum pump. The vacuum system further includes an additive dosing assembly fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber, an additive storage device fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, the additive storage device configured to store liquid additive, and at least one sensor configured to detect a spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit. The additive dosing assembly is configured to provide the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the31681-791 (3254WO01) separation chamber to enable the liquid additive to be mixed with the spoil material removed from the vacuum system.

[0012] In yet another aspect, a method for introducing a liquid additive to spoil material removed from an excavation site using a vacuum system is provided. The vacuum system includes a vacuum conduit, a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, a separation chamber in flow communication and dow nstream of the vacuum conduit, an additive dosing assembly fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber, an additive storage device fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, and at least one sensor configured to detect the spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit. The method includes receiving the spoil material within the vacuum conduit, flowing the spoil material through the vacuum conduit and to the separation chamber, and flowing a liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber to facilitate mixing of the spoil material and the liquid additive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mobile vacuum excavation apparatus;

[0014] FIG. 2A is a schematic of a first embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the vacuum system shown in FIG. 2A;

[0016] FIG. 2C is a detailed schematic view of an additive dosing assembly of the vacuum system shown in FIG. 2A;

[0017] FIG. 3 A is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a vacuum system of another embodiment of a mobile vacuum excavation apparatus;31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0018] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a vacuum system of an additional embodiment of a mobile vacuum excavation apparatus;

[0019] FIG. 4 is a schematic of a third embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 5 is a schematic of a fourth embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a schematic of a fifth embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 7 is a schematic of a sixth embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0023] FIG. 8 is a schematic of a seventh embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a schematic of an eighth embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 10 is a schematic of a ninth embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0026] FIG. 11 is a schematic of a tenth embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

[0027] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mobile vacuum excavation apparatus including a mixing system;

[0028] FIG. 13 is a schematic of a vacuum system of the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 12;

[0029] FIG. 14 is a side view of the mixing system and a dewatering system of the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus shown in FIG. 12; and31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0030] FIG. 15 is a schematic of another embodiment of a vacuum system for use with the mobile vacuum excavation apparatuses shown in FIGS. 1-14.

[0031] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Example embodiments discussed herein relate to mobile vacuum excavation apparatuses that include additive dosing assemblies for adding liquid additives, such as liquid solidification additives, to assist in solidifying a portion of the spoils.

[0024] Vacuum excavation apparatuses discussed herein utilize liquid solidification additives to substantially solidify spoil material removed from an excavation site. Examples of the liquid solidification additives include, but are not limited to, superabsorbent polymers (SAP). The addition of solidification additive in the spoils can assist in solidifying the spoil material, or a fraction of the spoil material, thereby allowing for more efficient disposal of the spoil material.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the vacuum excavation apparatuses discussed herein, and particularly the liquid additives discussed herein, are not limited to solidification additives. Embodiments discussed herein may utilize suitable non-solidifying liquid additives, such as, for example surfactants (e.g., specialized detergents / soaps) and / or soil stabilizers, to treat the soil at the site to be excavated and / or spoil material removed from the site. Surfactants may be added to the spoil material at the site, or after it is removed from the site, to break down bonds in, and loosen, the spoil material and / or soil prior to and / or during excavation. Soil stabilizers may be introduced directly to the excavation site to alter properties of the soil prior to removal.

[0026] When introducing elements of various embodiments disclosed herein, the articles “a”, “an”, “the”, and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” are31681-791 (3254WO01) intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0027] Unless otherwise indicated, approximating language, such as “generally’', “substantially”, and “about"’, as used herein indicates that the term so modified may apply to only an approximate degree, as would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art, rather than to an absolute or perfect degree. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms such as “about”, “approximately”, and “substantially” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Additionally, unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first”, “second”, etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, for example, a “‘second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, for example, a “first” or lower-numbered item or a “third” or higher-numbered item.

[0028] An example mobile vacuum excavation apparatus 100 for excavating spoil material for an excavation site is shown in FIG. 1. As described in further detail herein, the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus 100 is used to excavate a site by use of a jet of high-pressure fluid solution expelled through a w and. The cut, spoil material and water are removed by a vacuum system 114 (FIG. 2A) and discharged into a separation chamber 142. The vacuum system 114 of the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus 100 includes components for providing liquid solidification additives to the removed spoil material to aid in solidifying the material and improving transportation / disposal from mobile vacuum excavation apparatus 100.

[0029] The vacuum excavation apparatus 100 includes a chassis 102 which supports the various components (e.g., vacuum conduit 136, separation chamber 142, cyclones 146) with wheels 111 connected to the chassis 102 to transport the apparatus 100. The apparatus 100 may be self-propelled (e.g., with a dedicated motor that propels the apparatus) or may be adapted to be tow ed by a separate vehicle (e.g., may include a tongue and / or hitch coupler to connect to the separate vehicle).31681-791 (3254WO01)The vacuum excavation apparatus 100 includes a rear 104, a front 106, and a longitudinal axis Ai that extends through the front 106 and the rear 104 of the vacuum excavation apparatus 100. The vacuum excavation apparatus 100 includes a cab 108 arranged near the front 106. The various components of the vacuum excavation apparatus 100, such as the excavation fluid pump 125 (FIG. 2A), vacuum pump 140, and the like, are powered by an engine (not shown) that propels the apparatus 100. In other embodiments, a dedicated engine is provided that powers the various components of the vacuum excavation apparatus 100 or the apparatus 100 is powered by other methods.

[0030] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the vacuum excavation apparatus 100 includes an excavation fluid supply system 1 12 for dispensing an excavating fluid and a vacuum system 114. The excavation fluid supply system 112 includes an excavation fluid reservoir 116, excavation fluid supply line 124, excavation fluid pump 125, second fluid supply line 130, and wand 132. The wand 132 includes a wand nozzle 134 (e.g., rotary nozzle or straight tip nozzle) for directing the pressurized excavation fluid toward the earthen material to cut the earthen material to form a spoil material. In the example embodiment, the excavation fluid pump 125 is a motorized pump that is operable to pressurize the excavation fluid to, for example, at least about 500 psi or at least about 1,000 psi (e.g., from about 1,000 psi to about 5,000 psi or from 1,000 psi to about 3,000 psi). A second fluid supply line 130, also referred to herein as ‘‘second line” or “high pressure line,” extends from the excavation fluid pump 125 to the wand 132. The second fluid supply line 130 supplies the pressurized excavation fluid to the wand 132.

[0031] Although the excavation fluid reservoir 116 as illustrated in FIG. 2A is shown schematically as a single unit, the fluid reservoir f 16 can include a plurality of water tanks fluidly coupled to one another. In some embodiments, the fluid reservoir 116 is fluidly coupled to the additive dosing system 117 by a fluid supply line 131 A for supplying a liquid (e.g., water) to be mixed with the solidification additive 163 to achieve a predetermined liquid mixture of additive, prior to the additive being introduced to vacuum system 114 at vacuum conduit 136. As shown in the example of FIG. 2A, the fluid supply line 131 A is fluidly coupled to the31681-791 (3254WO01) additive dosing assembly 120 and the fluid reservoir 116. In other embodiments, the fluid supply line 131 A may fluidly couple the fluid reservoir 116 with any suitable components of the additive dosing system 117, such as, but not limited to, solidification additive storage device 118, additive supply line 161, and / or dosing line 160.

[0032] The vacuum system 1 14 is configured for removing spoil material from the excavation site. Spoil material or simply ‘'spoils” may include, without limitation, soil such as rocks and / or clay, cut earthen material (e.g., small particulate such as sand to larger pieces of earth that are cut loose by the jet of high- pressure solution), slurry, organic / vegetative material such as grass, roots, and sticks, and solution used for excavation. The spoil material may have a consistency similar to water, a slurry, or even solid earth or rocks. The terms used herein for materials that may be processed by the vacuum excavation apparatus 100 such as. for example, “spoils,” “spoil material,” “cut earthen material” and “water”, should not be considered in a limiting sense unless stated otherwise.

[0033] The vacuum system 114 includes a vacuum conduit 136. including a dig tube portion 138. positioned on and / or included within a boom 135 (FIG. 1; optional). The boom 135 is capable of rotating toward the excavation site to remove material from the excavation site. The boom 135 may the support vacuum conduit 136, including dig tube portion 138. The dig tube portion 138 extends downward to the ground to vacuum spoil material from the excavation site. The dig tube portion 138 may be manipulated by a user to direct the vacuum suction toward the excavation site. Vacuum conduit 136 is fluidly connected to separation chamber 142, via inlet 143. More specifically, vacuum conduit 136 is fluidly coupled to and / or in flow communication with a separation chamber 142 positioned downstream of vacuum conduit 136 and the excavation site, respectively. Additionally, inlet 143 of separation chamber 142 is positioned between and / or fluidly couples vacuum conduit 136 to separation chamber 142. As such, dig tube portion 138 of vacuum conduit 136 is position upstream of and / or opposite separation chamber 142. As discussed herein, separation chamber 142 is configured to receive the spoil material and separate it from the vacuum air being drawn through vacuum conduit 136. In other31681-791 (3254WO01) embodiments, the vacuum system 114 including vacuum conduit 136 does not include boom 135.

[0034] The vacuum system 114 acts to entrain the cut earthen material and the solution used to excavate the site in a stream of air. A blower or vacuum pump 140 (FIG. 2 A) pulls an airstream through the vacuum conduit 136 to entrain the material in the airstream. As shown in FIG. 2A, vacuum pump 140 is positioned downstream of vacuum conduit 136 and separation chamber 142, respectively, such that separation chamber 142 is positioned between vacuum conduit 136 and vacuum pump 140. Air is discharged from the vacuum pump 140, via exhaust 150, after spoil material is removed from the airstream. The airstream having excavation fluid and cut earth entrained therein is pulled through the vacuum conduit 136 (which may be supported by boom 135) and is pulled into separation chamber 142. As a result of vacuum pump 140 drawing air / an airstream and the spoil material through vacuum conduit 136, it is to be understood that vacuum conduit 136 is under a “vacuum pressure” and / or a pressure below atmospheric pressure. Additionally, and as discussed herein, any material flowing through vacuum conduit 136 is also under and / or experiences the vacuum pressure within vacuum conduit 136.

[0035] Additionally in example embodiments, mobile vacuum excavation apparatus 100 also includes an additive dosing system 117 in flow communication with vacuum system 114. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C, additive dosing system 117. included within and / or housed on vacuum excavation apparatus 100, includes a solidification additive storage device 118 and an additive dosing assembly 120. Additive dosing assembly 120 is in flow communication with and / or is fluidly coupled to at least one portion or component of vacuum system 114. More specifically, and as discussed herein, additive dosing assembly 120 is fluidly coupled to vacuum conduit 136, the excavation site 101, and / or separation chamber 142. In the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C, additive dosing assembly 120 is fluidly coupled to vacuum conduit 136 via a dosing line 160. As discussed herein with respect to FIG. 2B, dosing line 160, and / or additional components coupled thereto (e.g., nozzle(s)), fluidly couple additive dosing assembly 120 and vacuum conduit 136, dow nstream of dig tube portion 138. Additionally, and as discussed herein with31681-791 (3254WO01) respect to FIG. 2C, additive dosing assembly 120 includes a plurality of components that are configured to facilitate the selective supplying of a liquid solidification additive to be mixed with the spoil material within vacuum system 114 to aid in the solidification of the spoil material.

[0036] Although shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C as including a single dosing line 160, it should be understood that additive dosing system 117 of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 can include a plurality of lines coupled to various components of vacuum system 114 of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 (see, FIGS. 9 and 10).

[0037] Solidification additive storage device 118 is fluidly coupled to additive dosing assembly 120. More specifically, an additive supply line 161 is fluidly- coupled to solidification additive storage device 118 and additive dosing assembly 120 to facilitate fluid coupling between solidification additive storage device 118 and additive dosing assembly 120. In non-limiting examples, solidification additive storage device 118 is configured to and / or facilitates the storage of a liquid solidification additive 163 (see, FIG. 2B) that is selectively flowed, provided to, and / or mixed with the spoil material during operation of vacuum excavation apparatus 100. Liquid solidification additive 163 includes any suitable liquid-based additive that can be mixed with and substantially solidity- the spoil material removed from excavation site 101 using vacuum conduit 136, as discussed herein. For example, liquid solidification additive 163 can be formed from materials including, but not limited to, superabsorbent polymers (SAP) suspension in oil (e.g., LIQUID EVIRODRY™). Additionally, or alternatively, liquid solidification additive 163 can be formed from materials including, but not limited to, detergents / soaps, deactivating products (e g., VACMAX PLUS™), and / or any other suitable product that alters surface tension, changes the viscosity, and / or stabilizes the spoil material through ion exchange (e.g., clay spoil material) when mixed with the spoil material removed from excavation site 101.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, the illustrated solidification additive storage device 118 is a tank (e.g., approximately 50 to 100 gallons) mounted on the31681-791 (3254WO01) chassis 102 between the water tanks 122 and the cab 108. In particular, solidification additive storage device 118 is mounted on the chassis 102 adjacent the water tanks 122 and may be refilled by an operator standing at ground level near the chassis 102. In other words, the additive storage device 118 may be refilled by an operator without having to climb onto the chassis 102. In other embodiments, the refilling of additive storage device 118 may be performed by the operator climbing on the chassis 102, optionally with the aid of a stairway, a ladder, and / or a platform for standing. In some embodiments, the additive storage device 118 may be thermally coupled to a heating system (not shown) configured to selectively regulate a temperature of the additive in storage device 118 for preventing freezing of the additive. Additionally or alternatively, the additive storage device 1 18 may include a water tight seal to restrict exterior moisture from entering the interior of the additive storage device 1 18 and mixing with the additive stored therein.

[0039] Although shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C as including a single solidification additive storage device 118, it is understood that additive dosing system 117 of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 can include a plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118 (see, FIGS. 10 and 11). As discussed herein, each of the plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118 can include similar or distinct liquid solidification additives.

[0040] Briefly turning to FIG. 2B, a cross-sectional side view of a portion of vacuum conduit 136 and a portion of additive dosing system 117 is shown. In the non-limiting example, additive dosing system 1 17 also includes at least one nozzle 165 fluidly coupled to additive dosing assembly 120 (FIG. 2A). More specifically, nozzle 165 is fluidly coupled to dosing line 160. Additionally, nozzle 165 is positioned, disposed, and / or formed within vacuum conduit 136, such that a tip of nozzle 165 is substantially planar with an inside surface of vacuum conduit 136. As a result, nozzle 165 of additive dosing system 1 17 does not extend into vacuum conduit 136. In the example embodiment where dosing line 160, and / or nozzle 165 are fluidly coupled to vacuum conduit 136, nozzle 165 of additive dosing system 117 is configured to dispense, disperse, and / or inject liquid solidification additive 163 directly into vacuum conduit 136 to be mixed with the spoil material removed from31681-791 (3254WO01) excavation site 101, as discussed herein. The injecting of liquid solidification additive 163 directly into vacuum conduit 136 via nozzle 165 causes liquid solidification additive 163 to be mixed and / or amalgamated with the spoil material flowing therethrough as a result of the airstream within vacuum conduit 136 and / or the pull of the spoil material through vacuum conduit 136 based on the air from vacuum pump 140 (FIG. 2A). In the example embodiment, the base fluid is water, the spoils are primarily earthen material (mixed with the water), and the additive is a liquid solidification additive 163. The vacuum system 114 (FIG. 2 A) is configured to mix the solidification additive with the spoil material to form a mixture of solidification additive and spoil material. By providing and mixing the solidification additive in the spoil material, the resulting discharged spoil material from the separation chamber 142 (FIG. 2A) has increased solidification relative to the spoil material that is initially received in the separation chamber 142.

[0041] Additionally, at least one sprayer 169 is also positioned adjacent to nozzle 165. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 2B, at least one sprayer 169 is positioned within vacuum conduit 136, diametrically opposite to and / or substantially aligned with nozzle 165. Sprayer 169 is fluidly coupled to sprayer supply line 130 A. Briefly returning to FIG. 2A, sprayer supply line I 30A is also fluidly coupled to and / or fluidly couples excavation fluid pump 125 and sprayer 169, respectively. Sprayer 169 is oriented within vacuum conduit 136 to spray a cleaning fluid 171 (e.g., water supplied by fluid pump 125) at nozzle 165 to facilitate the cleaning of nozzle 165 during operation of vacuum excavation apparatus 100. That is, cleaning fluid 171 is sprayed at, on and / or around nozzle 165 to remove undesirable build-up of spoil material and / or liquid solidification additive 1 3 during operation. Cleaning fluid 171 is stored in a separate storage tank (not shown) and / or is provided by a distinct component of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 (e.g., water tank). Cleaning fluid 171 used to clean nozzle 165 can be any suitable fluid capable of removing spoil material / liquid solidification additive 163 from nozzle 1 5. For example, cleaning fluid 171 can include, but is not limited to, water or a waterdetergent solution.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, vacuum system 114 also includes at least one material flow sensor 158 configured to detect spoil material flowing through vacuum system 114. More specifically, sensor 158 is positioned adjacent to and / or in communication with at least one component or portion of vacuum system 114 of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 to detect, determine, and / or identify spoil material flowing through vacuum system 114 during operation. In the non-limiting example shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, sensor 158 is positioned on, adjacent to, and / or in communication with vacuum conduit 136, upstream of separation chamber 142. Additionally in the example embodiment, sensor 158 is also positioned on vacuum conduit 136 upstream of dosing line 160, and downstream of dig tube portion 138 for vacuum conduit 136. Sensor 158 is configured to detect the presence of the spoil material and / or the amount of spoil material flowing thorough vacuum conduit 136 during operation of vacuum excavation apparatus 100. As discussed herein, a control system 156 in communication with additive dosing assembly 120 utilizes the data detected by sensor 158 to facilitate the selective supplying or injecting of liquid solidification additive 163 into vacuum system 1 14 to aid in solidifying the spoil material. Sensor 158 can be formed from any suitable sensor configured to detect spoil material, as discussed herein. For example, sensor 158 can be formed from, but is not limited to, a material flow sensor, an optical sensor, a w eight or scale sensor, a material density sensor, a mass flow rate sensor (e.g., a pressure plate), a radar sensor, and the like. Additionally, or alternatively, vacuum excavation apparatus 100 can include a control system and / or computing device (e.g., control system 156) in communication with at least excavation fluid pump 125 and vacuum pump 140. In the non-limiting example, and after control system 156 detects or determines that excavation fluid pump 125 and vacuum pump 140 are activated and / or operational, a dosing of liquid solidification additive 1 3 can be added or flowed to vacuum conduit 136, as similarly discussed herein.

[0043] Although a single sensor 158 is shown in vacuum system 114 of vacuum excavation apparatus 100, it is to be understood that vacuum system 114 can include a plurality of sensors positioned in distinct locations and / or in communication with various components of vacuum excavation apparatus 100.31681-791 (3254WO01)Furthermore, although sensor 158 is shown to be positioned on and / or adjacent to vacuum conduit 136. it is to be understood that sensor 158 can be position directly in vacuum conduit 136.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 2A and continuing with the air flow through vacuum system 114, air exits one or more separation chamber outlets 144 and is introduced into cyclones 146 to remove additional spoil material (e.g., water, small solids such as sand, low density particles such as sticks and grass, and the like) that was not separated in the separation chamber 142. That is, at least one cyclone 146 is in flow communication with and downstream of separation chamber f42. The cyclone(s) 146 is configured to receive the mixture of air and, where applicable, a portion of additional spoil material, and subsequently separate and / or remove the portion of additional spoil material therein. Material that collects in the bottom of the cyclones 146 is collected in cyclone collection chamber 180. Solids from the cyclone collection chamber 180 and separation chamber 142 may be loaded into a bin, dumpster, loader bucket, ground pile, roll-off bin, dump truck or the like or may be conveyed to the site of the excavation as backfdl. Solids may be transported off of the excavation apparatus 100 by other methods. The air removed from the cyclones 146 is introduced into one or more filter elements 148 before entering the vacuum pump 140. Air is removed from the apparatus through a vacuum exhaust 150. In other nonlimiting examples, liquid solidification additive 163 can be provided downstream of a discharge of separation chamber 142 (see, FIG. 8) and / or directly to cyclone collection chamber 180 (see. FIG. 7).

[0045] The vacuum pump 140 generates vacuum in the system to pull spoil material into the apparatus 100 for processing. In some embodiments, the vacuum pump 140 is a positive displacement pump. Such positive displacement pumps may include dual-lobe or tri-lobe impellers (e.g., a screw rotor) that draw air into a vacuum side of the pump and forces air out the pressure side. In some embodiments, the pump is capable of generating a vacuum of at least 18" Hg and / or a flow rate of at least about 3000 cubic feet per minute. The pump may be powered by a motor having a power output of. for example, at least 75 hp, at least 100 hp or even at least 125 hp.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0046] FIG. 2C is a schematic of a portion of vacuum system 114 which includes solidification additive dosing system 117. In the example embodiment, the additive dosing system 1 17 includes the solidification additive storage device 118, the dosing assembly 120, the control system 156, and the flow sensor 158 for measuring the flow of spoils within the vacuum conduit 136. The dosing assembly 120 also includes a dosing pump 152 and a dosing motor 154. The dosing line 160 extends from the additive storage device 118 through the dosing pump 152 and to the vacuum conduit 136. In other embodiments (see, FIGS. 4-11), the dosing line 160 may introduce the liquid solidification additive 163 into a distinct portion of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 including, but not limited to, the dig tube portion 138 and / or inlet 143 of separation chamber 142 (i.e., upstream of separation chamber outlet 144). By introducing the liquid solidification additive 163 into a location upstream of the separation chamber outlet 144, a desired mixing of liquid solidification additive with the spoils and a desired concentration of liquid solidification additive 163 within the spoil material may be maintained and / or selectively adjusted, without having to batch dose the spoil material in the separation chamber 142. Although the dosing pump 152 and dosing motor 154 are shown and described as separate components herein, it will be understood that in other embodiments, the dosing motor 154 and the dosing pump 152 may be provided as a single component.

[0047] In the example embodiment, the dosing pump 152 is a low shear positive displacement pump and is configured to selectively meter liquid solidification additive 163 from the solidification additive storage device 118 into the vacuum conduit 136. Low shear positive displacement pumps are particularly well suited for use with liquid additives that include polymers, as the low shear positive displacement pumps have a reduced potential damage to the polymers in the additive during pumping operations relative to other pump Apes. Example low shear positive displacement pumps include a peristaltic pump, a progressive cavity pump, a diaphragm pump, and a lobe pump. In other embodiments, the dosing pump 152 may include a gear pump, a vane pump, or a non-positive displacement pump, such as a centrifugal pump.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0048] In the example embodiment, the dosing pump 152 is a peristaltic pump that includes an inlet 162 and an outlet 164 and a flexible tubing (not shown) extending between the inlet 162 and outlet 164. The dosing pump 152 is operatively coupled to and driven by the dosing motor 154. The dosing pump 152 is operable to provide a consistent metered volume of liquid solidification additive 163 to the vacuum conduit 136 during rotation of the pump 152. irrespective of changes in the additive viscosity. In embodiments in which the dosing motor 154 is a direct current motor, the dosing motor 154 may be supplied with a voltage that varies depending on the desired output. In some embodiments, the dosing pump 152 includes an air powered pump having an electro proportional valve.

[0049] In particular, in embodiments in which pump 152 is a positive displacement pump, rotation of the rotor (not shown) by the dosing motor 154 isolates and moves a fixed volume of liquid solidification additive 163 from the inlet 162 to the outlet 164, irrespective of the viscosity of the additive. Accordingly, the dosing pump 152 of the present disclosure allows for a predetermined volume of additive to be introduced into vacuum system 114 based on operation of the dosing motor 154.

[0050] Although shown positioned on the vacuum conduit 136 in FIG. 2C, in other embodiments, the flow sensor 158 may be integrated into the dig tube portion 138 and / or the separation chamber 142. In some embodiments, the material sensor may replace, or be used in conjunction with, a system that monitors the weight of at least a portion of the vacuum system. For example, in some embodiments the w eight system (not shown) may detect the w eight of the separation chamber 142 (included the spoil material within separation chamber 142) and compare a first weight to a second weight of separation chamber 142 over a period of time to determine if spoils are flowing into the separation chamber 142 and / or at what rate the spoils are flowing into the separation chamber 142. Further yet, in some embodiments the operator may manually activate the dosing system 1 17, such as through the use of a trigger, when spoil material is flowing though the vacuum system 114. Although only a single material sensor 158 is shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2C, other embodiments may include a plurality of material sensors coupled to various components of the vacuum system 1 14.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0051] The control system 156 is communicatively coupled with the material flow sensor 158 and the dosing motor 154 and is configured to control the liquid solidification additive dosing assembly 120 based, at least in part, on whether spoil flow is detected by the material flow sensor 158. The control system 156 controls operation of the dosing motor 154 to selectively flow or release liquid solidification additive 163 by the dosing pump 152 into the vacuum conduit 136. such that the resulting mixture of spoils and liquid solidification additive 163 has a desired additive concentration. For example, during operation, when spoil material is not flowing through the vacuum system 114 (which may include when vacuum pump 140 is powered off), the spoil flow sensing system of vacuum system 114 does not detect any spoils flow. As a result, the control system 156 does not provide power to the dosing motor 154 and solidification additive is not released from the additive storage device 118 into the vacuum system 114. Conversely, when sensor 158 detects spoil flow to the separation chamber 142, the control system 156 controls the dosing motor 154 to operate the dosing pump 152. thereby directing liquid solidification additive 163 into the vacuum system 114. Controlling the additive dosing assembly 120 based on the flow of spoils to the separation chamber 142 allows for maintaining a consistent additive concentration in the spoils mixture within the separation chamber 142 and prevents overdosing the spoils during periods when spoils flow to the separation chamber 142 is reduced or stopped. Additionally, in the example embodiment, when spoil material is not flowing through the vacuum system 114, as detected by sensor 158, but vacuum pump 140 is still drawing air through vacuum conduit 136, the dosing assembly 120 does not provide additive to the vacuum system. In such embodiments, stopping or reducing the flow of liquid solidification additive 163 to the airstream may prevent overdosing of the spoil material.

[0052] The control system 156 includes a switch 168, a pulse width modulation (“PWM”) driver 170, and a relay 172. The PWM driver 170 is electrically connected to an external power source 174 by the switch 168 and controls power provided from the power source 174 to the dosing motor 154. The power source 174 may be a direct current (“DC”) battery though, in other embodiments, any suitable power source may be used.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0053] The PWM driver 170 includes a dial 176 and a PWM module 178. The PWM module 178 regulates an effective applied voltage provided to the dosing motor 154 from the power source 174 by changing a duty ratio of the received DC voltage at a given frequency. The dial 176 allows for selective adjustment of effective voltage controlled by the PWM module 178. By adjusting the dial 176, an operator may selectively adjust the speed of the dosing motor 154, and thereby control the volume of solidification additive introduced into the spoils during operation. For example, adjusting the dial 176 to increase the motor speed will increase the volume of liquid solidification additive 163 introduced by the dosing pump 152 into the spoils at the chosen injection point (such as vacuum conduit 136, dig tube portion 138, inlet 143, and / or separation chamber 142). Decreasing the motor speed will decrease the volume of solidification additive 163 introduced by the dosing pump 152 into the spoils at the chosen injection location. Thus, the dial 176, and more broadly, the control system 156, enable selective adjustment of the volume of additive metered by dosing pump 152.

[0054] The switch 168 is a toggle switch that is moveable between an “on” position and an “off’ position. When the switch 168 is in the “on” position, 12 volts of DC power is supplied to the PWM module 178 from the external power source 174 and the control system 156 controls the motor 154 based on the material flow sensor 158. When the switch 168 is in the “off’ position, the PWM driver 170 is electrically disconnected from the power source 174. When the fluid supply system 112 is operated with the switch 168 in the “off position, no additive is dispensed into the spoils.

[0055] In the example embodiment, the dial 176 is adjustable between a low dose setting and a high dose setting (e g., liquid solidification additive 163 between approximately 0.25% and 5% per total mass of the spoils, and / or approximately 0.25 to 1.0 gallons per minute (gpm) of liquid solidification additive 163). The high dose setting is suitable for more liquid spoil mixtures having a high water content compared to the volume of solids. In other embodiments, the PWM driver 170 may be adjustable to provide any suitable desired additive concentration to31681-791 (3254WO01) the spoils. In the example embodiment the dial 176 is a manually operated dial, though in other embodiments any suitable dial may be used.

[0056] The relay 172 is electrically coupled to the material flow sensor 158. When the material flow sensor 158 detects spoils flow, the material flow sensor 158 transmits an electrical signal to the relay 172. thereby providing power to the relay 172 and allowing power to flow from the PWM driver 170 to the dosing motor 154.

[0057] During operation, to add liquid solidification additive 163 into the spoils, an operator first sets the switch 168 to the ‘’on” position and adjusts the dial 176 on the PWM driver 170 based on a desired additive dosing rate. The flow of spoils is detected by the sensor 158, which transmits a signal to the relay 172. The relay 172 receives the signal and electrically connects the PWM driver 170 to the dosing motor 154 in response. The dosing motor 154 receives the modulated power from the PWM driver 170 and drives the dosing pump 152, thereby introducing liquid solidification additive 163 into the spoils. When the sensor 158 does not detect spoil flow, transmission of the signal from the sensor 158 to the relay 172 is stopped, thereby stopping the transmission of power between the PWM driver 170 and the dosing motor 154 and halting operation of the dosing pump 152. The control system 156 may also halt operation of the dosing pump 152 when the vacuuming operation is shut down (i.e., vacuum pump 140 is shut down).

[0058] Additionally, or alternatively, control system 156 can automatically adjust the dosing of the removed spoils with liquid solidification additive 163 using additive dosing system 117. In an example embodiment, control system 156 receives a signal from sensor 158 detecting spoils within vacuum conduit 136, and subsequently activates and / or controls relay 172 and PWM module 178, respectively, during operation. As similarly discussed herein, and based on information detected and / or determined by sensor 158 and / or additional components (e.g., weight of separation chamber 142), PWM module 178 automatically regulates the applied voltage provided to the dosing motor 154 to adjust the dosage and / or31681-791 (3254WO01) amount of liquid solidification additive 163 supplied during operation of vacuum excavation apparatus 100.

[0059] In configurations where the solidification additive dosing operation is manually activated by the operator (i. e. , an operator manually activates a trigger to activate the introduction of additive into spoils) a signal from the trigger transmits an electrical signal to the control system 156, thereby providing power to the relay 172 and allowing power to flow from the PWM Driver 170 to the dosing motor 154.

[0060] FIGS. 3A and 3B show cross-sectional side views of a portion of vacuum conduit 136 for additional example embodiments of vacuum excavation apparatus 100. It is to be understood that similarly numbered and / or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 3A, nozzle 165 is positioned within vacuum conduit 136. More specifically, nozzle 165 is fluidly coupled to dosing line 160 and is positioned, disposed, and / or formed at least partially within, and / or is substantially positioned between dosing line 160 and vacuum conduit 136. In the non-limiting example, nozzle 165 also extends into vacuum conduit 136. As discussed herein, nozzle 165 of additive dosing system 117 is configured to dispense, disperse, and / or inject liquid solidification additive 163 directly into vacuum conduit 136 to be mixed with the spoil material removed from excavation site 1 1 .

[0062] In the example embodiment of FIG. 3 A, to protect nozzle(s) 165 from damage and / or build-up. a barrier 167 is positioned adjacent to and / or substantially surrounds nozzle 165. Barrier 167 is coupled to and / or extends into an internal cavity of vacuum conduit 136 directly adjacent nozzle 165 to prevent spoil material from undesirable contact with and / or build-up around nozzle 165 during operation of vacuum excavation apparatus 100. Barrier 167 can be formed from any suitable material and / or geometry to facilitate the protection of nozzle 165 extending at least partially within vacuum conduit 136, as shown in FIG. 3 A.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0063] In the example embodiment, vacuum system 114 also includes at least one at least one sprayer 169 positioned within vacuum conduit 136. diametrically opposite and / or substantially aligned with nozzle 165. As discussed herein with respect to FIG. 2B, sprayer 169 is configured to spray a cleaning fluid 171 (e.g., water) at nozzle 165 to facilitate the cleaning of nozzle 165 and / or to remove the undesirable build-up of spoil material and / or liquid solidification additive 163 during operation.

[0064] In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, nozzle 165 fluidly coupled to dosing line 160 is positioned, disposed, and / or formed within vacuum conduit 136, such that a tip of nozzle 165 is substantially offset with the inside surface of vacuum conduit 136. That is, and as shown, nozzle 165 that is disposed at least partially through vacuum conduit 136 is offset, recessed, and / or non- planar with the inside surface of vacuum conduit 136. Similar to example embodiments discussed herein, at least one sprayer 169. positioned opposite and / or substantially aligned with nozzle 165 is configured to spray a cleaning fluid 171 at nozzle 165 to facilitate the cleaning of nozzle 165 and / or portions of the conduit 136 adjacent to nozzle 165.

[0065] FIGS. 4-1 1 are schematic views of vacuum excavation apparatus 100 for additional example embodiments. It is to be understood that similarly numbered and / or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.

[0066] In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 4, dosing line 160 of additive dosing system 117 is coupled to dig tube portion 138. More specifically, dosing line 160 is fluidly coupled to dig tube portion 138 of vacuum conduit 136, and / or fluidly couples dig tube portion 138 to additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the non-limiting embodiment, additive dosing assembly 120 provides liquid solidification additive 163, stored in solidification additive storage device 118, directly to dig tube portion 138 of vacuum conduit 136 to be mixed with the spoil material removed from excavation site 101. as similarly discussed herein. Fluidly coupling dosing line 1 0 to dig tube portion 138 ensures that31681-791 (3254WO01) liquid solidification additive 163 provided to dig tube portion 138 via additive dosing assembly 120 is combined, mixed, and / or amalgamated almost immediately after spoil material is removed from excavation site 101 and flows through vacuum system 114 of vacuum excavation apparatus 100.

[0067] In the non-limiting example shown in in FIG. 5, dosing line 160 of additive dosing system 117 is positioned directly within excavation site 101. More specifically, dosing line 160 is positioned within and fluidly coupled to excavation site 101, and / or fluidly couples excavation site 101 to additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the non-limiting embodiment, additive dosing assembly 120 provides liquid solidification additive 163, stored in solidification additive storage device 118, directly into excavation site 101 to be mixed with the spoil material removed therein. Providing liquid solidification additive 163 directly into excavation site 101 substantially ensures the spoil material and the provided liquid solidification additive 163 are mixed within vacuum system 114 after being removed from excavation site 101 via vacuum system 114.

[0068] In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the dosing line 160 introduces the liquid solidification additive 163 into the spoil material within separation chamber 142. That is, dosing line 160 is fluidly coupled to separation chamber 142, directly, and / or dosing line 160 fluidly couples additive dosing assembly 120 and separation chamber 142 of vacuum system 114. As a result, additive dosing assembly 120 provides liquid solidification additive 163, stored in solidification additive storage device 118, directly to separation chamber 142 to be mixed with the spoil material removed from excavation site 101, as similarly discussed herein. In such an embodiment, the spoil material stored in the separation chamber 142 may be “batch dosed” after a certain volume of spoils have been collected in separation chamber 142, in that the pump may be operated until a predetermined volume of liquid solidification additive 163 has been released into the separation chamber 142, such that the resulting mixture in the separation chamber 142 has a desired additive concentration. In other non-limiting examples, the separation chamber 142 may be continuously dosed as spoils enter the separation chamber 142 such that the resulting mixture in the separation chamber 142 has a desired and / or31681-791 (3254WO01) predetermined additive concentration. In some such embodiments, the separation chamber 142 further includes a mixing apparatus or device 147 (shown in phantom) for mixing the liquid solidification additive 163 with the spoil material in the separation chamber 142. Suitable mixing devices 147 include, for example and without limitation, a recirculation loop, rotatable paddles, etc.

[0069] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 7, dosing line 160 of additive dosing system 117 is coupled to inlet 143. More specifically, dosing line 160 is fluidly coupled to inlet 143 of separation chamber 142, downstream of vacuum conduit 136, and / or fluidly couples inlet 143 of separation chamber 142 to additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the non-limiting embodiment, additive dosing assembly 120 provides liquid solidification additive 163, stored in solidification additive storage device 118, directly to inlet 143 to be mixed with the spoil material removed from excavation site 101, as similarly discussed herein. That is, fluidly coupling dosing line 160 to inlet 143 ensures that liquid solidification additive 163 is provided within vacuum system 114 prior to reaching separation chamber 142 to facilitate the combined, mixed, and / or amalgamated of the spoil material and the liquid solidification additive 163 within separation chamber 142 during operation.

[0070] Additionally as shown in FIG. 7, a supplemental dosing line 181 (also referred to herein as an “additional dosing line”) is fluidly coupled to additive dosing assembly 120. That is. dosing line 160 can be branched, split, and / or include a junction where supplemental line 181 is fluidly coupled to and / or in fluid communication with dosing line 1 0 and / or additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the non-limiting example, supplemental line 181 is also fluidly coupled to cyclone collection chamber 180. That is, supplemental line 181 is fluidly coupled to cyclone collection chamber 180, in communication with cyclone(s) 146, and / or fluidly couples cyclone collection chamber 180 to additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the example embodiment, supplemental line 181 is configured to provide the liquid solidification additive 163 of the solidification additive storage device 118 directly to the cyclone collection chamber 180. Within cyclone collection chamber 180, the provided liquid solidification additive 163 can be31681-791 (3254WO01) mixed and / or combined with any remaining portion of spoil material removed by cyclones 146 and subsequently provided to cyclone collection chamber 180, as similarly discussed herein.

[0071] Vacuum excavation apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 8 includes dosing line 160 of additive dosing system 117 coupled to a discharge outlet 183 of separation chamber 142. More specifically, dosing line 160 is fluidly coupled to discharge outlet 183 of separation chamber 142, and / or fluidly couples discharge outlet 183 of separation chamber 142 to additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the example embodiment, additive dosing assembly 120 provides liquid solidification additive 163, stored in solidification additive storage device 118, directly to discharge outlet 183 to be mixed with the spoil material removed from excavation site 101, as similarly discussed herein. Liquid solidification additive 163 provided directly to discharge outlet 183 facilitate the combining, mixing, and / or amalgamating of the spoil material and the liquid solidification additive 163 after the spoil material has passed through vacuum system 1 14, and / or prior to the storing and / or discarding of the combination of the spoil material and the liquid solidification additive 163.

[0072] In other non-limiting examples, dosing line 160 is branched, split, and / or formed as a plurality of fluidly coupled lines that are fluidly coupled to and / or in flow communication with a plurality of distinct components of vacuum system 114. For example, and as shown in FIG. 9. branched dosing line 160 is fluidly coupled to both dig tube portion 138 of vacuum conduit 136, as well as separation chamber 142. Branched dosing line 160 fluidly couples both dig tube portion 138 and separation chamber 142, respectively, to additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117. In the example embodiment, additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117 can provide liquid solidification additive 163, stored in solidification additive storage device 118, to dig tube portion 138 and / or separation chamber 142 via dosing line 160. Liquid solidification additive 163 can be provided to dig tube portion 138 and separation chamber 142 simultaneously, or alternatively, can be provided at distinct times and / or based on distinct operational parameters. For example, liquid solidification additive 163 can be provided to dig tube portion 13831681-791 (3254WO01) immediately upon detection, via sensor 158, that spoil material is flowing through vacuum conduit 136. However, additive dosing assembly 120 of additive dosing system 117 may only provide liquid solidification additive 163 to separation chamber 142 after a predetermined time of operation and / or after determining a predetermined amount of the spoil material (and liquid solidification additive 163) have flowed to separation chamber 142. As discussed herein with respect to FIG. 2C, control system 156 and its various components can control the operation of additive dosing assembly 120 providing liquid solidification additive 163 to distinct components of vacuum excavation apparatus 100.

[0073] In yet further embodiments (not shown), the dosing line 160 may be branched, such that a first branch extends to the separation chamber 142, a second branch extends to the vacuum conduit 136, a third branch extends to the dig tube portion 138. and / or a fourth brank extends to the inlet 143 of separation chamber 142. In such embodiments, a valve may be provided to selectively control the flow of additive into either one of the branches. As a result, in such embodiments, an operator may control the valve and the control system 156 to perform either a batch dosing of the separation chamber 142 or to selectively dose the spoils flowing through the dig tube, vacuum conduit line, and / or inlet.

[0074] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 10, additive dosing system 117 can include a plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B. For example, additive dosing system 117 can include three (3) distinct solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B. As shown, and as similarly discussed herein, each of the plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B are fluidly coupled to and / or in flow communication with additive dosing assembly 120, via additive supply line 161. Additionally, a valve (not shown) fluidly coupled to additive supply line 161 and / or positioned between plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B and additive dosing assembly 120 can selectively control which plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B is fluidly coupled to and / or configured to provide liquid solidification additive 163 to additive dosing assembly 120 during operation. In nonlimiting examples, each of the plurality of solidification additive storage devices 1 18,31681-791 (3254WO01)190A, 190B can include distinct content. For example, additive storage device 118 can include a solidification additive, such as a liquid superabsorbent polymer (SAP), while additive storage devices 190A, 190B may include other additives such as surfactants (e.g., distinct detergents and / or soaps) and / or soil stabilizers. In the nonlimiting example, and based on, at least in part, detected or determined information relating to the spoil material removed from excavation site 101. control system 156 can selectively control which liquid solidification additive 163 (e.g., SAP, detergent, soap) is provided to vacuum conduit 136 and mixed with the spoil material therein.

[0075] In another non-limiting example shown in FIG. 11, additive dosing system 117 can include a plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B, each fluidly coupled to additive dosing assembly 120 with distinct additive supply lines 161A, 161B, 161C. Additionally in the example embodiment, a plurality of distinct dosing lines 160 A. 160B, 160C are also fluidly coupled to additive dosing assembly 120, and distinct portions of vacuum system 114. For example, dosing line 1 0 A fluidly couples additive dosing assembly 120 and vacuum conduit 136, dosing line 160B fluidly couples additive dosing assembly 120 to dig tube portion 138 of vacuum conduit 136, and dosing line 160C fluidly couples additive dosing assembly 120 to separation chamber 142. In one example embodiment, each of the plurality of dosing lines 160 A, 160B, 160C are fluidly coupled to a corresponding plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B. More specifically, solidification additive storage device 118 can be fluidly coupled to and / or provide liquid solidification additive 163 to plurality of distinct dosing lines 160A, while solidification additive storage device 190A is fluidly coupled to and / or provides liquid solidification additive 1 3 to dosing line 160B. Additionally in the example, solidification additive storage device 190B is fluidly coupled to and / or provides liquid solidification additive 163 to dosing line 160C. In another non-limiting example, each of the plurality of distinct dosing lines 160 A. 1 0B, 1 0C can be fluidly coupled to each and every plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B. In the distinct non-limiting example, additive dosing assembly 120 (and / or control system 156) can determine and / or control the source of liquid solidification additive 163 and / or which dosing line 160A,31681-791 (3254WO01)160B, 160C receives liquid solidification additive 163 during operation of vacuum excavation apparatus 100.

[0076] Furthermore in the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 11, the plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190 A, 190B are positioned on a distinct device and / or apparatus 200. That is, the plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190 A, 190B may not be positioned and / or included within vacuum excavation apparatus 100, but rather are positioned on a distinct apparatus 200 positioned adjacent vacuum excavation apparatus 100. In non-limiting examples, distinct apparatus 200 can include, but is not limited to, a distinct vehicle or trailer including the plurality of solidification additive storage devices 118, 190A, 190B, or central storage devices or tanks including extending hoses forming additive supply lines 161A, 161B, 161C.

[0077] Additional details related to at least one implementation (e.g., vacuum excavation apparatus 100) may be obtained with reference to U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0412044, entitled “Additive Dosing Assemblies and Hydro Excavation Vacuum Apparatus Incorporating Same,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein for all relevant and consistent purposes.

[0078] Another embodiment of a vacuum excavation apparatus 300 is shown in FIGS. 12-14. The example vacuum excavation apparatus 300 is substantially similar as the vacuum excavation apparatus 100 described above with respect to FIGS . 1 -1 1, except that, in the example embodiment, the vacuum excavation apparatus 300 includes on-board processing (e.g., liquid-solid separation) of earthen material generated during excavation such as the apparatuses shown and described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0015766, entitled “Cyclonic Separation Systems and Hydro Excavation Vacuum Apparatus Incorporating Same”, and in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2021 / 0087784, entitled “Systems and Methods for Reducing or Preventing Pluggage in an Excavation Vacuum Apparatus,” both of which are incorporated herein by reference for all relevant and consistent purposes. Additionally, it is to be understood that similarly numbered and / or named components31681-791 (3254WO01) may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.

[0079] The illustrated vacuum excavation apparatus 300 includes a high-pressure excavation fluid supply system 312. vacuum system 314, a separation system 303, and a dewatering system 305. The excavation fluid supply system 312 includes a fluid reservoir 316. The base fluid reservoir 316 supplies water for high pressure excavation and stores fluid recovered from the dewatering system 395. The base fluid reservoir 316 includes a plurality7of tanks 322 fluidly coupled with one another. The vacuum excavation apparatus 300 includes chassis 302 and wheels 311 connected to the chassis 302 to transport the vacuum excavation apparatus 300. The vacuum excavation apparatus 300 includes a rear 304, a front 306, and a longitudinal axis A2 that extends through the front 306 and the rear 304 of the vacuum excavation apparatus 300. The vacuum excavation apparatus 300 includes a cab 308 arranged near the front 306 and a truck 331 having a truck body 333. As shown in FIG. 12, in the example embodiment, a liquid solidification additive storage device 318 is mounted to a forward sidewall 335 of the truck body 333.

[0080] Turning to FIG. 13. with continued reference to FIG. 12. the vacuum excavation apparatus 300 includes a vacuum system 314 and a fluid supply system 312. The vacuum system 314 includes vacuum conduit 336, including dig tube portion 338, for entraining the spoil material. The vacuum conduit 336 is optionally earned by a boom 334 that is capable of rotating to position the dig tube portion 338 over the excavation site 301. A blower or vacuum pump 340 creates an airstream through the vacuum system 314 such that spoil material entering dig tube portion 338 is entrained in the airstream. Air is discharged from the vacuum pump 340 after spoil material is removed from the airstream.

[0081] The airstream having spoils or spoil material entrained therein is pulled through the dig tube portion 338 and is pulled into a separation chamber 342. The separation chamber 342 removes at least a portion of the spoils (solids and liquids) from the airstream. Air exits one or more separation vessel air outlets 344 and is introduced into cyclones 346 to remove additional spoil material (e.g., water, small31681-791 (3254WO01) solids such as sand, low density particles such as sticks and grass, and the like) not separated in the separation chamber 342. Spoil material discharged from the bottom of the cyclones 346 is conveyed by conveyor 380 to a cyclone discharge pump 348 and is introduced to a dewatering system 395 described herein, or, alternatively, is gravity fed to the dewatering system 395. The air removed from the cyclones 346 is drawn through a vacuum tube 321 to be introduced into one or more fdter elements 328 before entering the vacuum pump 340. Air is removed from the apparatus through a vacuum exhaust 350.

[0082] Similar to liquid solidification additive dosing systems 117 described for vacuum excavation apparatus 100 (see, FIGS. 1-1 1), liquid solidification additive 363 is added to the vacuum system 314 of vacuum excavation apparatus 300, and more specifically, liquid solidification additive 363 could be added to the spoil material. In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 13, additive dosing system 317 includes a solidification additive storage device 318 configured to store liquid solidification additive 363, as well as an additive dosing assembly 320 fluidly coupled to liquid solidification additive storage device 318 via additive supply line 361. Additionally in the non-limiting example, a dosing line 360 is fluidly coupled to additive dosing assembly 320 and / or fluidly couples additive dosing assembly 320 and vacuum conduit 336 of vacuum system 314. Additive dosing line 360 is configured to facilitate providing liquid solidification additive 363 to vacuum conduit 336 in order to mix, combine, and / or amalgamate the spoil material removed from excavation site 301 and liquid solidification additive 363, as similarly discussed herein.

[0083] Spoil material falls within the separation chamber 342 toward the airlock 355. The material passes through the airlock 355 and is introduced into a dewatering system 395. The dewatering system of some embodiments includes a prescreen (not shown) that first engages material discharged from the airlock 355. The dewatering system 395 also includes a vibratory' screen, more commonly referred to as a "shaker", that separates material that passes through the pre-screen by size. The dewatering system 395 facilitates the separation of the spoil material into the distinct portions (e.g., liquid spoil material portion, solid spoil material portion). The liquid31681-791 (3254WO01) spoil material portion separated by the dewatering system 395 may be stored in tank(s) 322. The solid spoil material portion may be discharged (i.e. , without additional processing) from dewatering system 395 and directly loaded (not shown in the illustrations) into a bin, dumpster, loader bucket, ground pile, roll-off bin, dump truck or the like or may be conveyed to the site of the excavation as backfill. A solidification mixer 393 of a mixing system 399, described below, may not be necessary if the discharged solids meet the necessary solid-like consistency, particularly in configurations where liquid solidification additive is added to the spoils in the vacuum system 314 (e.g., additive dosing line 360 fluidly coupled to dig tube portion 338, vacuum conduit 336, and / or separation chamber 342).

[0084] Alternatively, a mixing system 399 is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 to mix or convey the solid spoil material portion separated by and / or discharged from dewatering system 395, as discussed herein. The mixing system 399 is supported by vacuum excavation apparatus 300. An example vacuum excavation apparatus may include an on-board mixing system 399 for earthen material generated during excavation such as the apparatus shown and described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 670242, entitled "Mixing Systems Having Roller Assemblies’', which is incorporated herein by reference for all relevant and consistent purposes. The vacuum excavation apparatus 300 is an example apparatus and the mixing system 399 may be used on other vacuum excavation machines.

[0085] The solid fraction or portion discharged from dewatering system 395 may be further processed by the mixing system 399 on board the vacuum excavation apparatus 300. The mixing system 399 processes the solid fraction to thicken the material until the solid fraction reaches the desired state (e.g., until the solid fraction may be classified as a “solid” for disposal purposes). Spoil material that reaches the discharge end of the dewatering system 395 is introduced to the mixing system 399. The solid fraction may have a moisture-content and consistency that prevents the spoil material from being disposed using protocols suitable for spoils that have been classified as “solid”, i.e., spoils having appropriate thickness and consistency. The appropriate thickness and consistency may alternatively be considered “stackable” or have properties quantifiable by the slump test or paint filter31681-791 (3254WO01) test described below. The consistency of the material may vary depending on the type of soil being processed. In some embodiments and as further described below, additives (e.g., liquid solidification additive 363, dry solidification additive) may selectively be flowed and / or added to the mixing system 399 depending on the consistency of the spoil material.

[0086] Solids may be transported off the excavation apparatus by other methods. Discharged solids from mixing system 399 may be directly loaded (not show n in the illustrations) into a bin, dumpster, loader bucket, ground pile, roll-off bin, dump truck or the like or may be conveyed to the site of the excavation as backfill.

[0087] The illustrated embodiment of mixing system 399 includes a dry additive feed system 390 for adding a dry solidification additive to the mixing system 399. The dry additive feed system 390 includes a dry solidification additive storage device 392 that holds and stores a dry solidification additive (e.g., bentonite, concrete, powdered SAP), a conduit (feed tube 396) for conveying dry additive to the mixer 393, and a discharge (not shown) at which the dry additive is added to the mixer 393. The dry solidification additive storage device 392 is coupled to the chassis 302 of the vacuum excavation apparatus 300 in proximity to the cab 308. Dry additive feed system 390 is optional and may not be included in some embodiments.

[0088] Similar mixing systems 399 and / or dry additive feed system 390, such as the those shown and described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2024 / 0173892, entitled “Mixing Systems having Disk Assemblies,” which is incorporated herein by reference for all relevant and consistent purposes.

[0089] In configurations where liquid solidification additive 363 is added to the spoils in the mixing system 399, the liquid solidification additive 363 is added via a mixer line 397 (also referred to herein as an “additive dosing line”) fluidly- coupled to mixing system 399. More specifically, mixer line 397 fluidly couples additive dosing assembly 320 and mixer 393 of mixing system 399 to facilitate the providing of liquid solidification additive 363 of liquid solidification additive storage31681-791 (3254WO01) device 318 directly to mixing system 399. Mixer line 397 can also include a nozzle (e.g., nozzle 365) that discharges liquid solidification additive 363 into the mixer 393 of mixing system 399. The discharge ports or nozzles for adding liquid solidification additive 363 to the slurry' within the mixer 393 of mixing system 399 may be located near an inlet (e g., inlet 369; FIG. 14) of the mixer 393 of mixing system 399, such that mixing components within the mixer 393 can adequately mix the solidification additive 363 with the spoils before the solidified spoils are discharged from the mixer 393 of the mixing system 399 (see, FIG. 14).

[0090] A sensor 358 (similar to sensor 158) may be included in the vacuum system 314, and more specifically, the vacuum conduit 336 and / or near the inlet of the mixer 393, and / or adjacent solid discharge of the dewatering system 395, for detecting flow of spoils material. The additive dosing assembly 320 is configured to introduce the liquid additive from the liquid solidification additive storage device 318 into the spoil material in response to the material flow sensor 358 detecting spoil material flow in substantially the same manner as described above with the respect the additive dosing assembly 120 described in FIGS. 1-11.

[0091] FIG. 14 is a side, partial cross-sectional view of a portion of vacuum excavation apparatus 300. More specifically, FIG. 14 is an example embodiment of mixing system 399 including mixer 393, and a portion of dewatering system 395 of vacuum excavation apparatus 300. The mixing system 399 includes a mixer housing 359 having a floor 379. a front wall 378, and a first sidewall 367 and a second sidewall (not shown). The front wall 378, the first sidewall 367 and the second sidewall, extend generally perpendicular to the floor 379. The front wall 378 extends, generally perpendicular to and between the first sidewall 367 and the second sidewall. The first sidewall 367 and the second sidewall are generally parallel to each other and are disposed on opposite sides of the floor 379.

[0092] In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the floor 379 of the mixing system 399 may be "‘closed”, i.e., generally the floor 379 does not include outlets for material processed within the mixing system 399 other than31681-791 (3254WO01) openings for clean-outs and the like and / or a single discharge disposed toward the discharge end of the system 399.

[0093] The mixing system 399 includes an inlet 369 for introducing earthen material into the mixer housing 359. The inlet 369 is disposed toward the front wall 378 of the mixer housing 359. The mixer housing 359 includes a cover 371 which defines at least a portion of the inlet 369. In other embodiments, the inlet 369 is defined between the first and second sidewalls 367. The cover 371 extends generally perpendicular to and between the first and second sidewalls 367.

[0094] Spoil material is fed from the dewatering system 395 to mixing system 399 and a solid fraction spoil material is provided to mixer 393 via dewatering system discharge 373. The dewatering system discharge 373 is disposed in proximity to the inlet 369.

[0095] The mixing system 399 includes a shield plate 375 in proximity to the spoil material dewatering system discharge 373 to direct spoil material into the mixing system 399. The spoil material dewatering system discharge 373 is arranged between dewatering system 395 and the shield plate 375, such that spoil material passes into mixer housing 359 before engaging the first of a plurality of mixing assemblies 377. The shield plate 375 may be a flexible material, for example rubber, which allows the second shield plate 375 to flex and bend while absorbing the vibrations of the dewatering system 395.

[0096] Additionally as show n in FIG. 14, additive dosing line 397 of additive dosing system 317 is positioned adjacent to mixer 393. In the example embodiment shown, additive dosing line 397 extends through and / or is coupled to a nozzle 365 near shield plate 375 of mixer 393, between and / or adjacent to dewatering system discharge 373 and / or inlet 369 and / or front wall 378. During operation, additive dosing line 397 provides and / or flows liquid solidification additive 363 directly into mixer housing 359 and / or inlet 369 and moves toward floor 379 of mixer housing 359, along with the spoil material discharged from dewatering system discharge 373. Inside mixer 393, liquid solidification additive 363 and the spoil31681-791 (3254WO01) material are mixed via mixing assemblies 377, before being discharged from mixer discharge 376. That is. mixer discharge 376 is positioned opposite inlet 369 and / or adjacent to mixing assemblies 377. During operation, the spoil material and liquid solidification additive 363 moves from inlet 369 to mixing assemblies 377 to mix the spoil material / liquid solidification additive 363, before being discharged and / or expelled from mixer 393 via mixer discharge 376. Adding liquid solidification additive 363 into mixer housing 359 at and / or directly adjacent the first row of mixing assemblies 377 and / or inlet 369, as well as directly adjacent to the spoil material, facilitates and / or ensures desirable mixing and / or combining of the spoil material and the liquid solidification additive 363 within mixer 393.

[0097] FIG. 15 is another schematic view of excavation apparatus 300 including another embodiment of a fluid solidification additive supply system 500. The example fluid solidification additive supply system 500 may be used with any suitable vacuum excavation apparatus, such as the vacuum excavation apparatus 100 described above with respect to FIGS. 1-1 1 or vacuum excavation apparatus 300 described herein with respect to FIGS. 12-14.

[0098] The example fluid solidification additive supply system 500 is substantially the same as the additive dosing system 117, 317 described with respect to FIGS. 1-11 and 12-14, respectively, except as described below. Specifically, the fluid solidification additive supply system 500 of FIG. 15 is configured to supply an additive from an additive reservoir 418 to additive supply line 161, 361 and dosing line 160, 360 (see, FIGS. 2A and 13) in substantially the same manner as described herein. Moreover, in the example embodiment, the additive supply system 500 is further configured to supply the additive to one or more spoils processing components 404 of a vacuum excavation apparatus 100, 300.

[0099] As used herein, the term ‘'spoil processing components” incudes any components that receive the cut earthen material excavated from the excavation site 101, 301. For example, the dig tube portion 338, vacuum conduit 336, separation chamber 342 and any other components / conduits downstream of dig tube portion 338 are all examples of excavation components.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0100] In the example embodiment, additive supply system 500 includes a plurality of additive dosing lines 160. 360 fluidly connecting additive dosing assembly 420 to each of the spoils processing components 404. In other embodiments, additive dosing assembly 420 may be coupled to any combination of spoils processing components 404. For example, and without limitation, in some embodiments, additive supply system 500 includes a first additive dosing line extending to one of the spoils processing components 404 and does not include the other dosing lines 360 shown in FIG. 15.

[0101] Additive dosing assembly 420 includes a pump 452 and valving 406 (also referred to herein as a '‘valve system”) fluidly connecting additive reservoir 418 to each of spoils processing components 404. The pump 452 may be a positive displacement pump, similar to pump 152 described above with respect to FIG. 2A, a low pressure and / or high-volume pump, and, in some embodiments as described in greater detail below, may include a plurality of different pumps that are each configured to deliver the additive to a specific one of the spoils processing components 404. The valving 406 includes selectively controllable valves provided on each additive dosing lines 160, 360.

[0102] Additive dosing assembly 420 is configured to selectively flow or introduce liquid solidification additive 163, 363 from additive reservoir 418 into any one of spoils processing components 404 and / or the excavation site 101, 301. Specifically, in the example embodiment, valving 406 includes valves provided on each additive dosing line 160, 360 extending from additive dosing assembly 420 to each of spoils processing components 404. The control system 456 is communicatively coupled to additive dosing assembly 420, and specifically to valving 406 and / or valve controllers (not shown) associated with each valve, to provide selective control of introduction of additive into spoils processing components 404. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, valving 406 is manually controllable and operators may manually open one or more valves of valving to introduce additive into one of the excavation components and discharge components, such as through the utilization of a trigger 414 on the dig tube portion, or button on a controller.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0103] In some embodiments, additive dosing assembly 420 may include a plurality of pumps 452 based on the location at which the liquid solidification additive 163, 363 is added within the vacuum excavation apparatus 100, 300. For example, and without limitation, in some embodiments pump 452 may include two or more pumps 452, including a first low volume pump for introducing additive into vacuum or negative pressure environments of spoils processing components 404, such as a peristaltic pump. The plurality of pumps 452 may also include a second pump having a different configuration from the first pump, such as a comparatively higher volume pump, for introducing the additive into a spoils separation chamber 142, 342 or components at ambient pressure, such as at the mixing system 399 of the apparatus 300. The vacuum or negative pressure environment components may include dig tube portion 138, 338, vacuum conduit 136, 336, and separation chamber 142, 342.

[0104] In the example embodiment, additive supply system 500 further includes a spoil material flow sensor 410 and a manual dosing trigger 414. The control system 456 is communicatively coupled to the spoil material flow sensor 410 and the manual dosing trigger 414 and is configured to control additive dosing assembly 420 to release additive to spoil processing components 404 based on readings detected by sensors 410 and / or manual trigger 414. In the example embodiment, the spoil flow sensor 410 is a flow sensor that is substantially the same as sensor 158, 358, as discussed herein.

[0105] In the example embodiment, material flow sensor 410 is configured to detect flow of material, such as removed spoil material and base fluid, through excavation components 404. Variations exists, in some configurations the material flow sensor 410 is configured to detect the weight of one or more of spoils processing components 404 and / or the weight of the spoil material contained within the spoils processing components 404 to determine whether there is spoil material present in one or more of spoils processing components 404. In some embodiments, material flow sensor 410 includes multiple sensors and is configured to detect a weight of each of spoils processing components 404 individually. In other embodiments, material flow sensor 410 is configured to detect a total weight of all31681-791 (3254WO01) spoils processing components 404 and / or a subset of spoils processing components 404, such as, for example, excluding the dewatering system 395, dig tube portion 138, 338, and vacuum conduit 136, 336.

[0106] In the example embodiment, control system 456 is configured to automatically control additive dosing assembly 420 to release liquid solidification additive 163, 363 in response to a detected weight of one or more of spoils processing components 404 exceeding a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments where material flow sensor 410 is configured to measure a weight of specific spoils processing components 404, control system 456 automatically controls additive dosing assembly 420 to release additive into the spoils processing component 404 where the excess weight was detected. In some embodiments, control system 456 is further configured to determine an amount of and / or a rate at which to introduce the additive into the corresponding component based on the weight detected by the material flow sensor 410. Introduction of the liquid solidification additive begins the solidification processes within the corresponding component or downstream of the injection location.

[0107] In other embodiments, the additive supply system 500 does not include at least one of the material flow sensor 410, or the operator desires to override an automated dosing system. In such embodiments, in response to the need to solidify spoils material, an operator may manually control valving of liquid additive dosing assembly 420 (such as through manual dosing trigger 414 or a button on a controller) to release additive into a spoils processing component 404 that it is expected to be most effective at solidifying the spoils based on the operator's knowledge and experience and other observable characteristics of the apparatus 100, 300.

[0108] Moreover, in some embodiments, the additive dosing assembly includes only one of the valving 406 and pump 452. For example, in some embodiments, it may not be necessary to use the pump 452 to provide additive to at least one or more of the spoils processing components 404. In some such embodiments, to introduce the additive into such components, opening the31681-791 (3254WO01) corresponding valve is sufficient to allow the additive to dispense under gravity into such components. In other embodiments where the additive is introduced into a negative pressure environment, the pump 452 may also optionally be removed and the negative pressure may be sufficient to suck the additive into the environment for dispensing.

[0109] Control system 456 and the various logical blocks, modules, and circuits described herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose computer, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Example general purpose processors include, but are not limited to, microprocessors, conventional processors, controllers, microcontrollers, state machines, or a combination of computing devices.

[0110] In some embodiments, control system 456 includes a processor, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) of a computer for executing instructions. Instructions may be stored in a memory area, for example. Processor may include one or more processing units, e.g., in a multi-core configuration, for executing instructions. The instructions may be executed within a variety of different operating systems on the controller, such as UNIX, LINUX, Microsoft Windows®, etc. It should also be appreciated that upon initiation of a computer-based method, various instructions may be executed during initialization. Some operations may be required in order to perform one or more processes described herein, while other operations may be more general and / or specific to a particular programming language e.g., and without limitation, C, C #, C++, Java, or other suitable programming languages, etc.

[0111] Processor may also be operatively coupled to a storage device. Storage device is any computer-operated hardware suitable for storing and / or retrieving data. In some embodiments, storage device is integrated in control system 456. In other embodiments, storage device is external to controller and is similar to database. For example, control system 456 may include one or more hard disk drives31681-791 (3254WO01) as storage device. In other embodiments, storage device is external to controller. For example, storage device may include multiple storage units such as hard disks or solid state disks in a redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID) configuration. Storage device may include a storage area network (SAN) and / or a network attached storage (NAS) system.

[0112] In some embodiments, processor is operatively coupled to storage device via a storage interface. Storage interface is any component capable of providing processor with access to storage device. Storage interface may include, for example, an Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) adapter, a Serial ATA (SATA) adapter, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) adapter, a RAID controller, a SAN adapter, a network adapter, and / or any component providing processor with access to storage device.

[0113] Memory area may include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic RAM (DRAM) or static RAM (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). The above memory types are example only, and are thus not limiting as to the ty pes of memory usable for storage of a computer program.

[0114] Compared to conventional vacuum excavation apparatuses, the fluid solidification additive supply systems of the present disclosure have several advantages. In embodiments where the fluid solidification additive supply system includes an additive dosing system that selectively flow and / or releases liquid solidification additive into a spoils processing component, the spoil material may be selectively dosed to a desired concentration. The entire contents of a separation chamber may be batch dosed. Selectively dosing spoil material within the separation chamber may allow for the concentration of additive in the spoil material to be adjusted without having to sense the flow of material through an airstream.

[0115] In embodiments where the vacuum excavation machine includes a liquid / solid separation system (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 12-14), it may be31681-791 (3254WO01) important to control the concentration of solidification additive to promote efficient separation of solids from liquids. For example, at least some known separation systems include one or more dewatering systems, such as a shaker screen, which facilitate the separation of solids and liquids.. In such systems, dosing the spoils with solidification additive after / downstream of the dewater system may prevent plugging of screens and / or inefficient solid and liquid separation.

[0116] In embodiments where the fluid supply system includes a spoil flow sensor and a control system for controlling the additive dosing assembly to introduce the additive into the spoil material in response to the sensor detecting fluid flow, the desired additive concentration in the spoil material may be maintained during periods when spoils are not flowing through the vacuum system.

[0117] In embodiments, in which the additive system includes a dial for selecting the dose of additive to be added to the spoil material, the amount of additive may be selected based on spoil material conditions.

[0118] In embodiments where the additive dosing system is configured to introduce the additive at different components of the vacuum excavation apparatus, the additive dosing system may be selectively controlled to provide a targeted release to specific components of the apparatuses to begin the solidification process of spoil material through excavation components of the vacuum excavation apparatus.

[0119] In embodiments where the vacuum excavation apparatus includes a material flow sensor, the liquid solidification additive dosing system may be automatically controlled to release the additive to a corresponding spoil processing component based on readings from the sensor.

[0120] It is to be understood that the terms “vacuum” or “vacuum pressure” used herein means to pull an airstream through an identified conduit to entrain material, liquid, and / or the like within the airstream for processing, as discussed herein.31681-791 (3254WO01)

[0121] The technical effect that may be realized by the dispensing of liquid solidification additives in the practice of some embodiments of the described system, apparatuses and techniques is to improve the solidification of spoil material removed from excavation sites for ease of transportation and / or disposal.

[0122] This writen description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode and to enable a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art to make and practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims. Such other examples are within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. Aspects from the various embodiments described, as well as other known equivalents for each such aspects, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in the art to construct additional embodiments and techniques in accordance with principles of this application.

Claims

31681-791 (3254WO01)WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A vacuum system comprising: a vacuum conduit configured to be positioned within an excavation site; a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit: a separation chamber in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, the vacuum conduit being upstream of the separation chamber and the separation chamber being upstream of the vacuum pump; an additive dosing assembly fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber; an additive storage device fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, the additive storage device configured to store liquid additive; and at least one sensor configured to detect a spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit, wherein the additive dosing assembly is configured to provide the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber to enable the liquid additive to be mixed with the spoil material removed from the excavation site via the vacuum conduit.

2. The vacuum system of claim 1, further comprising: a dosing line fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly and the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber; and an additive supply line fluidly coupling the additive dosing assembly and the additive storage device.

3. The vacuum system of claim 2. wherein the vacuum conduit includes: a dig tube portion positioned at an opposite end of the vacuum conduit from the separation chamber, the dig tube portion configured to engage with the excavation site to remove the spoil material, wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to at least one of the dig tube portion and a remaining portion of the vacuum conduit, downstream of the dig tube portion.31681-791 (3254WO01)4. The vacuum system of claim 2. wherein the separation chamber further includes an inlet in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, and the dosing line is fluidly coupled to the inlet of the separation chamber.

5. The vacuum system of claim 2. wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to the separation chamber.

6. The vacuum system of claim 2, wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to the excavation site and configured to provide the liquid additive of the additive storage device directly to the excavation site.

7. The vacuum system of claim 2, wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to a discharge outlet of the separation chamber, the dosing line configured to provide the liquid additive to the spoil material prior to being discharged from the separation chamber via the discharge outlet.

8. The vacuum system of claim 1. further comprising: a control system in communication with the at least one sensor, the control system configured to control the additive dosing assembly, based on one or more readings from the at least one sensor, to automatically control provision of the liquid additive to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber.

9. The vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the separation chamber further comprising a mixing device positioned within the separation chamber, the mixing device configured to mix the liquid additive and the spoil material within the separation chamber.

10. The vacuum system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one cyclone in flow communication with, and being downstream of, the separation chamber, the at least one cyclone configured to:31681-791 (3254WO01) receive a mixture of air and a portion of the spoil material flowing therethrough, and separate the portion of the spoil material and the air from the mixture; a cyclone collection chamber in communication with the at least one cyclone, the cyclone collection chamber configured to receive the spoil material removed from the air by the at least one cyclone; and an additional dosing line fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, the additional dosing line configured to provide the liquid additive of the additive storage device directly to the cyclone collection chamber.

11. The vacuum system of claim 1. wherein the additive dosing assembly further includes at least one of a pump and a valve fluidly coupled to the additive storage device, the additive dosing assembly being controllable to selectively flow the liquid additive to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber.

12. The vacuum system of claim 1, further comprising: a dosing line fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly and the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber; and at least one nozzle fluidly coupled to the dosing line.

13. The vacuum system of claim 12, wherein the at least one nozzle is: positioned at least partially within the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber, or positioned directly adjacent to, and is planar with, the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber.

14. The vacuum system of claim 12, further comprising at least one sprayer positioned adjacent to the at least one nozzle, the at least one sprayer configured to spray a cleaning fluid at, and clean, the at least one nozzle.31681-791 (3254WO01)15. The vacuum system of claim 1. wherein the vacuum conduit and the separation chamber are under a vacuum pressure via the vacuum pump, and the spoil material removed from the excavation site via the vacuum conduit is under the vacuum pressure.

16. The vacuum system of claim 1. wherein the spoil material includes: a solid spoil material portion; and a liquid spoil material portion mixed with the solid spoil material portion.

17. The vacuum system of claim 1. further comprising a valve system fluidly coupling the additive dosing assembly to each of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber, the valve system being selectively controllable for controlling the provision of the liquid additive to any one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber.

18. A mobile vacuum excavation apparatus comprising: a truck body mounted on a chassis; wheels connected to the chassis to transport the mobile vacuum excavation apparatus; and a vacuum system mounted on the chassis, the vacuum system including: a vacuum conduit configured to be positioned within an excavation site; a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit; a separation chamber in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, the vacuum conduit being upstream of the separation chamber and the separation chamber being upstream of the vacuum pump; an additive dosing assembly fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber; an additive storage device fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, the additive storage device configured to store liquid additive; and at least one sensor configured to detect a spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit,31681-791 (3254WO01) wherein the additive dosing assembly is configured to provide the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber to enable the liquid additive to be mixed with the spoil material removed from the vacuum system.

19. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a mixing system mounted on the chassis, the mixing system being in communication with vacuum system and configured to receive a portion of the spoil material from the vacuum system.

20. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 19, wherein the vacuum system further includes a mixer line fluidly coupling the additive dosing assembly and the mixing system, the mixer line configured to provide the liquid additive of the additive storage device directly to the mixing system to be mixed with the portion of the spoil material from the vacuum system.

21. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a dry solidification additive storage device mounted on the chassis and in flow communication with the mixing system, the dry solidification additive storage device configured to store a dry solidification additive.

22. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 18, wherein the vacuum system further includes: at least one cyclone in flow communication with, and being downstream of, the separation chamber, the at least one cyclone configured to: receive a mixture of air and a portion of the spoil material flowing therethrough, and separate the portion of the spoil material and the air from the mixture; a cyclone collection chamber in communication with the at least one cyclone, the cyclone collection chamber configured to receive the spoil material removed from the air by the at least one cyclone; and31681-791 (3254WO01) an additional dosing line fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, the additional dosing line configured to provide the liquid additive of the additive storage device directly to the cyclone collection chamber.

23. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 18, wherein the vacuum system further includes: a dosing line fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly and the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber; and an additive supply line fluidly coupling the additive dosing assembly and the additive storage device.

24. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 23, wherein the vacuum conduit of the vacuum system includes: a dig tube portion positioned at an opposite end of the vacuum conduit from the separation chamber, the dig tube portion configured to engage with the excavation site to remove the spoil material, wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to at least one of the dig tube portion and a remaining portion of the vacuum conduit, downstream of the dig tube portion.

25. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 24, wherein the separation chamber of the vacuum system further includes an inlet in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, and the dosing line is fluidly coupled to the inlet of the separation chamber.

26. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 23, wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to the separation chamber.

27. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 23. wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to the excavation site and configured to provide the liquid additive of the additive storage device directly to the excavation site.31681-791 (3254WO01)28. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 23, wherein the dosing line is fluidly coupled to a discharge outlet of the separation chamber, the dosing line configured to provide the liquid additive to the spoil material prior to being discharged from the separation chamber via the discharge outlet.

29. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 18. wherein the vacuum system further includes a mixing device positioned within the separation chamber, the mixing device configured to mix the liquid additive and the spoil material within the separation chamber.

30. The mobile vacuum excavation apparatus of claim 18, wherein the additive dosing assembly of the vacuum system further includes at least one of a pump and a valve fluidly coupled to the additive storage device, the additive dosing assembly being controllable to selectively flow the liquid additive to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber.

31. A method for introducing a liquid additive to spoil material removed from an excavation site using a vacuum system, the vacuum system including a vacuum conduit, a vacuum pump in flow communication with the vacuum conduit, a separation chamber in flow communication and downstream of the vacuum conduit, an additive dosing assembly fluidly coupled to at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber, an additive storage device fluidly coupled to the additive dosing assembly, and at least one sensor configured to detect the spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit, the method compnsing: receiving the spoil material within the vacuum conduit; flowing the spoil material through the vacuum conduit and to the separation chamber; and flowing a liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber to facilitate mixing of the spoil material and the liquid additive.

32. The method of claim 31 , further comprising:31681-791 (3254WO01) detecting, via the at least one sensor included within the vacuum system, the spoil material flowing through the vacuum conduit; and controlling, automatically by a control system in communication with the at least one sensor, the additive dosing assembly to provide the liquid additive to the at least one of the vacuum conduit, the excavation site, and the separation chamber based on one or more readings from the at least one sensor.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein flowing the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the vacuum conduit further comprises providing the liquid additive to the vacuum conduit at least one of upstream and downstream of the at least one sensor of the vacuum system.

34. The method of claim 31, wherein flowing the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the vacuum conduit further comprises: at least one of: providing the liquid additive directly to a dig tube portion of the vacuum conduit, the dig tube portion positioned at an opposite end of the vacuum conduit from the separation chamber and configured to engage with the excavation site to remove the spoil material, and providing the liquid additive directly in a remaining portion of the vacuum conduit, downstream from the dig tube portion.

35. The method of claim 31, wherein flowing the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the separation chamber further comprises: at least one of: providing the liquid additive directly to the separation chamber, and providing the liquid additive directly to an inlet of the separation chamber, the inlet in flow communication with and downstream the vacuum conduit.

36. The method of claim 31, further comprising flowing a portion of the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device directly to the excavation site.31681-791 (3254WO01)37. The method of claim 31 , further comprising: receiving a mixture of air and a portion of the removed spoil material in at least one cyclone of the vacuum system, the at least one cyclone in flow communication with and downstream of the separation chamber of the vacuum system; separating the portion of the spoil material from the air via the at least one cyclone; collecting the separated portion of the spoil material in a cyclone collection chamber of the vacuum system, the cyclone collection chamber in communication with the at least one cyclone; and providing the separated portion of the spoil material from the cyclone collection chamber to a dewatering system.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising: supplying the separated portion of the spoil material to a mixing system, the mixing system in communication with the dewatering system; flowing the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the mixing system; and mixing the separated portion of the spoil material and the liquid additive within the mixing system.

39. The method of claim 37, further comprising: flowing the liquid additive stored in the additive storage device to the cyclone collection chamber; and mixing the separated portion of the spoil material and the liquid additive in the cyclone collection chamber.

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