Vermeer Manufacturing Company, Inc.

Matt Mills

Ted Jay Sanders

Brad Pinkerton

Terry Allred

Jeff Vander Molen

Mickey Gragg

Arlyn Klyn

A synchronizer device is used for coordinating drill rod transfer mechanisms utilized in connection with transferring the drill rod between a drill rod magazine and the drill string in a horizontal directional drilling rig. The synchronizer device may transfer the movement from a first transfer mechanism to a second transfer mechanism, wherein the first transfer mechanism is powered and the apparatus acts as the motive force to move a second non-powered transfer mechanism. Alternatively, the synchronizer device may coordinate and synchronize the movement between a first and a second powered transfer mechanism. The synchronizer shaft is rotationally supported by bearings mounted on the rack frame of an HDD rig. The synchronizer shaft includes a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end. First and second ears are mounted on or proximate the first end and the second end of the synchronizer shaft respectively. First and second links are pivotally connected to the first ear and the second ear respectively at a first end of the links. The links are arranged and configured to connect to upper and lower rod transfer mechanisms respectively at a second end of the links.

Rod transfer mechanism synchronizer apparatus and method

A mobile trencher machine having an upper assembly, a ground drive assembly, and an adapter frame positioned between and coupled to each of the upper assembly and the ground drive assembly. The ground drive assembly being positionable in one of a number of mounting positions relative to the upper assembly, including a forward position, a rearward position, and a central position.

Machine with adapter frame for weight stabilization

Growing community of inventors

Pella, IA, United States of America

Matt Mills