Microtrencher Debris Diverter Plenum for Dust Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cutting microtrenches in asphalt or concrete surfaces are inefficient in removing debris and dust, as they often require large equipment and cause traffic control issues due to the spread of spoil, which complicates the bonding process with sealants.
Innovation Solution
A microtrencher with a radial saw and debris diverter system that includes a plenum to divert spoil away from the cutting area and an optional vacuum system to remove dust particles, allowing for effective debris and dust management during the cutting process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a vacuum system with a long hose and large vacuum truck is used to remove debris, then debris and dust can be removed from the microtrench, but the system requires large equipment and causes traffic control issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the debris removal function from a large external vacuum truck and relocates it to a compact plenum chamber mounted on the microtrencher itself. The plenum captures debris at the source (cutting zone) and directs it through an exit gap away from the microtrench, eliminating the need for a separate large vacuum truck and hose system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the debris capture and ejection functions into a single integrated plenum chamber that is part of the microtrencher assembly. The plenum merges the functions of debris collection, transport, and directional ejection into one compact unit, reducing overall system complexity and equipment size.
2Manufacturing precision
If compressed air is used to move spoil, then debris can be moved, but the debris and dust are spread over a larger area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the plenum chamber as an intermediary structure between the cutting zone and the external environment. Instead of using compressed air to blow debris directly outward (which would spread it), the plenum captures debris and uses a controlled exit gap to direct it laterally away from the microtrench, preventing widespread dispersion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts debris from the cutting zone through the plenum chamber and removes it laterally away from the microtrench path. This prevents debris from being deposited back onto the road surface or spreading over a large area, concentrating removal in a controlled lateral direction.
3Manufacturing precision
If a long hose with nozzle wider than trench is used, then debris can be captured, but the distance and height for debris travel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts debris capture functionality directly at the cutting zone through the plenum chamber positioned at the rear of the microtrencher. This eliminates the need for a long hose extending backward to a separate vacuum truck, reducing debris transport distance to merely the length of the plenum chamber itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The microtrencher performs debris removal itself through the integrated plenum chamber system, rather than relying on a separate vacuum truck following behind. The plenum serves the microtrencher's own debris removal needs, eliminating the time loss associated with coordinating a separate vacuum operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient removal of debris and dust, reducing the need for large equipment and minimizing traffic disruptions, while ensuring a clean surface for proper sealant bonding.
Implementation Method 1
A downward facing exit gap is defined adjacent to the exit end between a terminus of the plenum floor and the end plate, wherein the gap is laterally spaced away from the slot cut by the blade so that spoil travelling through the plenum passage is deposited through the exit gap laterally away from the slot
Implementation Method 2
In certain optional embodiments, a vacuum system is used to remove the dust particles during the debris diversion process
Data Source
AI summary
Arrangements for diverting and removing spoil created when a microtrench is being cut. The disclosed arrangements divert the debris and dust away from the microtrench during the cutting process. In optional embodiments, a spoil vacuum system is used to remove the dust particles during the debris diversion process. In further optional embodiments, a microtrench slot cleaning tool and slot vacuum system may be used. The microtrencher can be mounted on a skid-steer loader or a similar support vehicle.