Method and apparatus for installing a flexible panel into a trench

Abstract

A roller machine and method for installing a flexible panel into a trench including a frame, a prime mover connected to the frame, and a plurality of rollers positioned on the frame. The plurality of rollers defining a curved path of travel for the panel. The path of travel has an entry and an exit. The path of travel is nearly vertical adjacent to the exit above and adjacent to the trench. The prime mover is drivingly connected to at least one of the plurality of rollers. The plurality of rollers includes a plurality of support rollers extending across the frame and having an adjustable length generally corresponding to a width dimension of the panel and a plurality of guide rollers arranged in aligned pairs. The guide rollers are positioned adjacent opposite ends of the support rollers and are arranged adjacent to the exit of the path of travel. The path of travel extends between each of the aligned pairs of guide rollers. The frame is supported by a plurality of wheels so as to allow the frame to be moved adjacent to and along the length of the trench. The guide rollers are configured to accept and conform to the edge of the panel or to the interlocking connector attached to the panel. The exit position of the guide rollers is adjustable so as to enable the interlocking connector to engage a mating connector on a prior installed panel.