AU2019203148A1 - Apparatus and method for inserting vertical drains into a ground surface - Google Patents

Abstract

(Figure 1) The present invention concerns an apparatus and method for driving prefabricated vertical drains or drainage wicks into an underlying ground surface to expedite consolidation of soils with a high moisture content. The apparatus includes a mast adapted to be arranged in a substantially vertical position above the ground surface, said mast having therein a longitudinally extending chamber. The apparatus further includes a vehicle for supporting the mast and for raising and lowering the mast to and from the substantially vertical position and a ground surface penetrating tubular member configured for vertical movement in the longitudinally extending chamber of the mast, said tubular member having a passage therethrough for receiving at least a portion of a prefabricated vertical drain or drainage wick for movement therewith. Lastly, the apparatus includes a cable drive assembly for driving the tubular member into and out of the underlying ground surface. 104 8140b 140a Figure 1

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INSERTING VERTICAL DRAINS INTO A GROUND

SURFACE

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001 ] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for inserting vertical drains into a ground surface.

BACKGROUND [0002] Prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) or drainage wicks are commonly used to expedite the consolidation of soils with high moisture content. In use, the PVDs or drainage wicks are driven deep into soil to provide vertical drainage paths for pore water to flow to the surface due to the inherent pressures in the soil (also known as pore water pressure).

[0003] Typically, the PVDs or drainage wicks are combined with “surcharging” to further expedite consolidation of the soil. “Surcharging” refers to the application of a temporary load atop the soil to enhance pore water pressures and thus the vertical drain flow of pore water via the PVDs or drainage wicks.

[0004] Each PVD or drainage wick is generally driven into the soil within a rigid insertion tube or mandrel to a desired depth. The rigid insertion tube or mandrel is then withdrawn leaving the PVD or drainage wick in place. The PVDs are typically driven into the soil at regular predetermined intervals, determined based upon soil and moisture conditions.

[0005] The rigid insertion tube or mandrel used to drive each PVD or drainage wick into the soil is supported by a mast and is generally driven and retracted with a drive assembly. The drive assembly is usually associated with the mast.

[0006] The mast, including the drive assembly and the rigid insertion tube or mandrel, is, in turn, supported by a vehicle adapted to raise and lower the mast between a horizontal resting position and vertical operating position and otherwise manipulate and/or transport the mast.

[0007] Generally, the depth that a PVD or drainage wick is driven into soil is limited by a length of the mast supporting the rigid insertion tube or mandrel. In this regard, the length of the mast is typically limited by weight. Consequently, conventional masts usually have a length of up to about 40 metres.

[0008] In some scenarios, it is desirable to use a longer mast, for example, to drive PVDs or drainage wicks to greater depths in soil. However, the use of longer masts presents numerous

2019203148 03 May 2019 problems.

[0009] For example, longer masts having a length greater than 40 metres are typically very heavy and unwieldy. This, in turn, requires a vehicle of sufficient mass and bulk in order to support and manipulate the mast.

[0010] Depending on the length of the mast, problems may exist in locating a suitable vehicle capable of raising and lowering the mast between the horizontal resting and vertical operating positions without overturning. Moreover, the construction and/or transport of such a suitable vehicle presents further problems.

[0011] Another problem with use of longer masts is that the mast itself may not be structurally capable of being raised and lowered. Consequently, an auxiliary crane may be required to erect and dismantle the mast, which, again, presents further problems and is unreasonably prohibitive.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0012] Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and method of use for inserting an elongate flexible drain member into soil, which may minimise or overcome at least one of the problems mentioned above, or which may provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for driving an elongate flexible drain member into an underlying ground surface, said apparatus including:

a mast adapted to be arranged in a substantially vertical position above the ground surface, said mast including three longitudinally extending side frame members arranged in a triangular arrangement relative to one another and joined together by a plurality of cross frame members, said mast having therein a longitudinally extending chamber;

a vehicle for supporting the mast and adapted to raise and lower the mast to and from the substantially vertical position and to otherwise manipulate and transport the mast;

a ground surface penetrating tubular member configured for vertical movement in said longitudinally extending chamber of the mast, said tubular member having a passage therethrough for receiving at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member for movement therewith; and a cable drive assembly for driving said tubular member into and out of the underlying ground surface, said drive assembly including a drive drum, at least one sheave and a cable extending between the drive drum, the at least one sheave and an upper end of the tubular

2019203148 03 May 2019 member, said drive drum being slidably mounted to a lower end of the mast such that the drive drum is slidable back and forth across the mast to at least partially reduce a fleet angle of a portion ofthe cable extending between the drive drum and the at least one sheave.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mast for use or when used with the apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, the mast adapted to be arranged in a substantially vertical position above a ground surface, the mast including three longitudinally extending side frame members arranged in a triangular arrangement relative to one another and joined together by a plurality of cross frame members, and the mast having therein a longitudinally extending chamber.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle for use with or when used with apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, the vehicle being adapted to support the mast of the apparatus and to raise and lower the mast to and from the substantially vertical position and to otherwise manipulate and transport the mast.

[0016] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ground surface penetrating tubular member for use with or when used with the apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, said tubular member configured for vertical movement in the longitudinally extending chamber of the mast, said tubular member having a passage therethrough for receiving at least a portion of an elongate flexible drain member for movement therewith.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a drive assembly for use with or when used with the apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, said drive assembly including a drive drum, at least one sheave and a cable extending between the drive drum, the at least one sheave and an upper end of the tubular member, said drive drum being slidably mounted to a lower end of the mast such that the drive drum is slidable back and forth across the mast to at least partially reduce a fleet angle of a portion of the cable extending between the drive drum and the at least one sheave.

[0018] Advantageously, the present invention provides an apparatus including a mast that is able to be singly raised to and lowered from a substantially vertical operating position. The unique mast construction facilitates stable operation of longer mast lengths of 40m or greater without the need for an auxiliary crane or support vehicle. Indeed, the unique mast construction provides a structurally strong mast that is able to be raised and lowered by the vehicle of the apparatus, even with mast lengths of 40m or greater. The slidably mounted drive drum also facilitates the stable operation of the apparatus by ensuring that a fleet angle is at least partially reduced if not maintained at about a zero fleet angle.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [0019] As used herein, the term “elongate flexible drain member” refers to a drain member driven into an underlying ground surface in a substantially vertical orientation to expedite consolidation of the soil beneath. The drain member includes a plastic core having a substantially water permeable jacket. In use, the drain member provides a vertical drainage path for pore water to flow to the surface due to pore water pressure.

[0020] As used herein, the term “fleet angle” refers to the largest angle of the cable between a leading sheave and a flange of the drive drum relative to a centre line of the drum.

[0021] The mast may be of any suitable size, shape and construction. Typically, the mast is formed from metal, preferably steel with a high tensile strength grade. For example, the mast may be formed from steel with a tensile strength grade of from about 350n/m² to about 450n/m².

[0022] The mast includes opposed ends, including a lower end and an opposed upper end. The mast extends longitudinally between the opposed ends. The opposed ends may be open or closed.

[0023] As indicated, the mast has a triangular profile shape defined by the three longitudinally extending side frame members. Accordingly, the mast has three external sides extending longitudinally between the opposed ends. The three sides may include a vehicle facing side and a pair of converging sides that converge to an outer edge located opposite the vehicle facing side.

[0024] The mast may be of unitary construction or may be formed from two or more mast segments joined together in an end-to-end arrangement.

[0025] The three longitudinally extending side frame members are joined together by a plurality of cross frame members, preferably transversely extending cross frame members.

[0026] The frame members may be of tubular construction or of solid construction, preferably tubular with a substantially square-shaped cross-section.

[0027] Generally, the various frame members are permanently joined together using conventional welding techniques.

[0028] In some embodiments, one or more of the side frame members may further include at least one internal reinforcing member to at least partially strengthen the side frame member. The at least one reinforcing member may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[0029] Typically, the at least one reinforcing member may extend at least partially along an

2019203148 03 May 2019 internal length of a side frame member, preferably along an internal corner of the side frame member, more preferably along each internal corner of the side frame member.

[0030] Generally, the reinforcing member may be formed of metal, preferably steel.

[0031] In some embodiments, the reinforcing member may extend between internal surfaces of adjacent sidewalls defining an internal corner of a side frame member to reinforce the corner.

[0032] In some embodiments, the reinforcing member may be in the form of a gusset plate extending between the internal surfaces of adjacent sidewalls of the frame member. The gusset plate may be bolted or welded to each internal surface, preferably welded.

[0033] In other embodiments, each side frame member may include a passage therethrough and the reinforcing member may include at least one further frame member extending through the passage of the side frame member. The at least one further frame member may also have a substantially square-shaped cross-section. Preferably, the at least one further frame member may be axially rotated about 45° relative to the side frame member such that each external corner edge of the at least one further frame member at least partially abuts against an internal surface of a sidewall of the side frame member to reinforce the sidewalls of the side frame member.

[0034] In preferred embodiments, at least the longitudinally extending side frame member defining the outer edge of the mast may include the reinforcing member as described above.

[0035] The mast may be of any suitable length to support the ground penetrating tubular member. For example, the mast may have a length of about 10m, about 15m, about 20m, about 25m, about 30m, about 35m, about 40m, about 45m, about 50m, about 55m, about 60m, about 65m, about 70m, about 75m, about 80m, about 85m, about 90m, about 95m or even at least about 100m. Typically, the mast may have a length ranging from between about 30m and about 70m, preferably the mast may have a maximum length of about 65m.

[0036] The mast length may be adjustable or may have a fixed length, preferably the former. For example, the mast length may be adjustable to a desired length by connecting two or more mast segments together in an end-to-end arrangement.

[0037] The mast segments may have the same length or may be of differing lengths. Likewise, the mast segments may have the same or differing widths.

[0038] For example, the mast segments may each have a length of about 5m, about 6m,

2019203148 03 May 2019 about 7m, about 8m, about 9m, about 10m, about 11m, about 12m, about 13m, about 14m, about 15m, about 16m, about 17m, about 18m, about 19m, about 20m, about 21m, about 22m, about 23m, about 24m, about 25m, about 26m, about 27m, about 28m, about 29m or even about 30m. Typically, the mast segments may each have a length of between about 10m and 15m.

[0039] Any suitable number of mast segments may be connected in an end-to-end arrangement to achieve a mast of a desired length. For example, the mast may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or even 10 mast segments connected together in an end-to-end arrangement to achieve a mast of a desired length.

[0040] In preferred embodiments, the mast may include a base mast segment configured to be coupled to the vehicle and a plurality of extension mast segments connectable to the base mast segment and to one another to achieve a desired length.

[0041 ] Preferably, the mast may also include an upper mast segment for crowning the mast. The upper mast segment may have a lower end connectable to a mast segment and an opposed upper end.

[0042] In some embodiments, the upper mast segment may taper in width from the lower end to the upper end. Advantageously, tapering in width results in a considerable weight reduction thereby enhancing the overall stability of the mast when held and when being raised and lowered to and from the substantially vertical position.

[0043] The mast segments may be connectable together in any suitable way that provides a structurally stable connection between the segments enabling the mast when joined together to be raised and lowered to and from the substantially vertical position by the vehicle.

[0044] The mast segments may preferably be detachably connected together.

[0045] For example, in some embodiments, the mast segments may be connected together by one or more mechanical fasteners, such as, e.g., bolts.

[0046] In other embodiments, the mast segments may be connected together by a connecting mechanism or part of a connecting mechanism. For example, a first part of the connecting mechanism associated with an upper end of a first mast segment may mate with or engage with a second part of the connecting mechanism associated with a lower end of a second mast segment.

[0047] The connecting mechanism may include a threaded connection, an interference fit (snap fit) connection or a bayonet-type connection, for example.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [0048] The connecting mechanism may involve a male formation engaging a female formation. For example, in one embodiment, the connecting mechanism may include the upper end of the first mast segment having a male formation that engages with a female formation associated with the lower end of the second mast segment. Conversely, in another embodiment, the connecting mechanism may include the upper end of the first mast segment having a female formation that engages with a male formation associated with the lower end of the second mast segment.

[0049] In some embodiments, the mast segments may be frictionally fitted together in an end-to-end arrangement.

[0050] In some such embodiments, the side frame member ends of each mast segment may include a tapered or narrowed first end and an enlarged or widened opposed second end. The mast segments may therefore be connected together by at least partially inserting the tapered or narrowed first end into the enlarged or widened second end of a further mast segment.

[0051] In other such embodiments, each mast segment may be joined together by a connecting portion configured to be at least partially received in each mast segment end to be connected. For example, the connecting portion may be in the form of a connecting frame member portion configured to be at least partially received in the ends of each side frame member of a first mast segment and a second mast segment to be connected together. Once the mast segments are connected, the connecting frame member portion may be mechanically fastened in place to the side frame members of the first and second mast segments.

[0052] In other embodiments, each mast segment may include a flanged connecting portion located at each side frame member. The flanged connecting portion may be configured to abut against and be fastened to a like flanged connecting portion of a like side frame member from a further mast segment.

[0053] In yet other embodiments, each mast segment may include at least one tab portion extending outwardly from a segment end and configured to at least partially overlap with and be fastened to a least one corresponding like tab portion extending outwardly from a like segment end of a further mast segment.

[0054] Each tab portion may include one or more openings for receiving a mechanical fastener therethrough when overlapped and aligned with like openings in a like tab portion.

[0055] As indicated above, the mast includes a longitudinally extending chamber configured

2019203148 03 May 2019 to receive and allow vertical movement of the ground surface penetrating tubular member therein. The chamber may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be located in any suitable location on the mast.

[0056] The chamber may typically be defined by an elongate body constructed from metal, preferably steel.

[0057] The elongate body may have two opposed open ends and at least one sidewall extending longitudinally between the ends and defining the chamber therethrough.

[0058] The opposed open ends may include a lower end and an opposed upper end.

[0059] In preferred embodiments, the body may define a chamber having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. The body may include at least four walls extending longitudinally between the opposed ends, including a vehicle facing wall, an opposed outer wall and opposed sidewalls.

[0060] Generally, the body may extend longitudinally along an inner surface of the vehicle facing side of the mast, typically in a linear arrangement between the opposed ends of the mast, preferably centrally aligned along the vehicle facing side of the mast.

[0061 ] The vehicle facing wall of the body may be fastened or welded to one or more cross frame members defining the vehicle facing side of the mast.

[0062] In embodiments in which the mast is formed from one or more mast segments connected together in an end-to-end arrangement, the body defining the longitudinally extending chamber may likewise be formed one or more body segments associated with each mast segment and joined together with the mast segments in an end-to-end arrangement.

[0063] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the body may include a slot extending from the upper end of the body at least partially towards the lower end, preferably extending entirely along a length of the body from the upper end to the lower end.

[0064] The slot may extend through the outer wall of the body to enable the cable associated with an upper end of the ground surface penetrating tubular member to freely move between the upper and lower ends of the mast and drive movement of the tubular member within the chamber.

[0065] The slot defined in the body may be sized to enable the cable or a connection between the cable and the upper end of the tubular member to slide between the upper and

2019203148 03 May 2019 lower ends of the body. Preferably, however, the slot may not allow passage of the ground surface penetrating tubular member to exit the chamber via the slot.

[0066] In some embodiments, the body may further include one or more rollers for aligning and facilitating vertical movement of the ground surface penetrating tubular member within the chamber. The one or more rollers may be mounted to one or more internal surfaces of the at least one wall of the body.

[0067] In other embodiments, an internal surface of the body defining the chamber may further include a lubricant to facilitate vertical movement of the ground surface penetrating tubular member within the chamber. Any suitable type of lubricant may be used.

[0068] The ground surface penetrating tubular member may be of any suitable size, shape and form known in the art for driving the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member into the underlying ground surface.

[0069] Generally, the tubular member may be formed from hardened metal, preferably steel.

[0070] Typically, the tubular member may include opposed open ends, including a lower ground penetrating end and an opposed upper end associated with the cable drive assembly via the cable. The tubular member may have a substantially rectangular-shaped cross-section.

[0071] The cable may be associated with the upper end of the tubular member in any suitable way. Generally, the cable may be coupled to the upper end of the tubular member, preferably releasably.

[0072] In some embodiments, for example, the tubular member may include a connecting portion located at or near the upper end for connecting to a portion of the cable, preferably clamping.

[0073] As indicated, the tubular member has a passage therethrough for receiving the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member for movement therewith. The passage extends longitudinally between the opposed open ends.

[0074] Generally, the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member may extend entirely through the passage of the tubular member from the upper end to the lower ground penetrating end for insertion into the underlying ground surface.

[0075] The end of the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member may be

2019203148 03 May 2019 anchored at the lower ground penetrating end to ensure that the portion of the drain member is retained in the ground surface. The elongate flexible drain member may be anchored in any suitable way known in the art. For example, a small length of the portion extending beyond the lower ground penetrating end may be threaded through an anchor plate or like retaining member and folded back alongside itself in the tubular member.

[0076] The elongate flexible drain member may be fed from an external source, such as, e.g., a supply roll on which a predetermined length of the elongate flexible drain member is wound.

[0077] Typically, the elongate flexible drain member may extend upwardly from a source associated near a lower end of the mast to the upper end of the mast where it passes over at least one roller or other suitable guide and then downwardly through the passage of the tubular member. In some embodiments, the elongate flexible drain member may extend upwardly within an at least partially enclosed passage.

[0078] In use, the tubular member may drive the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member into the underlying ground surface where it may be retained by the anchor plate or a like retaining member as the tubular member retracts.

[0079] The driving of the tubular member into the underlying ground surface may additionally draw another portion of the elongate flexible drain member from the external source.

[0080] The retraction of the tubular member from the underlying ground surface may feed the another portion of the elongate flexible drain member into the passage of the tubular member for insertion into the underlying ground surface with the next downward movement of the tubular member.

[0081] As indicated above, the apparatus includes a vehicle for supporting the mast and for raising and lowering the mast to and from the substantially vertical position and to otherwise manipulate and transport the mast.

[0082] The vehicle may be of any suitable size, shape and form. The vehicle may preferably include a boom configured to be coupled to the mast for raising and lowering and otherwise manipulating the mast.

[0083] The vehicle may include a front, an opposed rear and opposed sides each defined by a respective track or wheel assembly extending along the side.

[0084] The vehicle may include the track or wheel assemblies for movement across the

2019203148 03 May 2019 underlying surface, preferably tracks.

[0085] The vehicle may include a house and an undercarriage rotatably coupled to one another. The house may include the boom, an operator cab and an engine. The undercarriage may include a platform and a track or wheel assembly located on each side ofthe platform.

[0086] The boom may include one or more articulations. The boom may include one or more linear actuators for at least pivoting the boom upwards and downwards relative to the house and a remainder of the vehicle. Typically, each linear actuator may include a hydraulic or pneumatic ram, preferably the former.

[0087] In preferred embodiments, the vehicle may be in the form of a hydraulic excavator, preferably a modified hydraulic excavator, more preferably a modified 80-ton excavator.

[0088] For example, the weight or balance of weight about the vehicle may be modified to stabilise the vehicle.

[0089] In some embodiments, counterweights may be relocated from the house to the undercarriage, preferably alongside a side frame member of each wheel or track assembly.

[0090] The counterweights may be adjustable.

[0091] In preferred embodiments, the counterweights may be in the form of one or more plates mountable to the side frame member of each wheel or track assembly.

[0092] Advantageously, relocating the counterweights from the house to the undercarriage at least partially assists the vehicle in driving the tubular member into and out of the underlying ground surface. With conventional excavators, the location ofthe counterweights in the house, opposite the boom, at least partially resists the driving force of the tubular member into the ground surface.

[0093] In other embodiments, the vehicle may further include at least one stabiliser for stabilising the vehicle when the mast is in the substantially vertical position and the tubular member is being driven into and out of the underlying ground surface.

[0094] The stabiliser may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be located in any suitable location on the vehicle to engage with the underlying ground surface.

[0095] For example, the at least one stabilizer may be located at or near the front, the rear, or adjacent a side of the vehicle, preferably the undercarriage. Preferably, the at least one stabiliser may be located at or near the front of the vehicle.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [0096] Generally, the stabiliser may include a leg and a foot. The leg may include an upper end connectable to the vehicle and a lower end connectable to the foot. The foot may, in turn, be pivotally connected to the leg and be configured to engage with and abut against the underlying ground surface.

[0097] The upper end of the leg may preferably be pivotally or hingedly connected to the undercarriage of the vehicle, most preferably to an inner surface of a side frame member of the wheel or track assembly at a location at or near the front of the vehicle.

[0098] The stabiliser may be moveable between a lowered position in which the foot is lowered relative to the vehicle for engaging the underlying ground surface and a raised position in which the foot is held clear of the underlying ground surface.

[0099] The stabiliser may preferably include a linear actuator for moving the stabiliser between the lowered and raised positions. The linear actuator may include a hydraulic or pneumatic ram, preferably the former.

[00100] In preferred embodiments, the vehicle may include at least two stabilisers for stabilising the vehicle when the mast is in the substantially vertical position and the tubular member is being driven into and out of the underlying ground surface.

[00101] Each stabiliser may be mounted to an inner surface of a respective side frame member of each wheel or track assembly and be actuated between the lowered and raised positions by a hydraulic ram.

[00102] In some embodiments, the vehicle may further include at least one lift block adapted to be located between the platform and a respective track or wheel assembly. The at least one lift block may be of any suitable size, shape and form and may be constructed from any suitable material or materials.

[00103] Generally, the at least one lift block may be constructed from metal, preferably reinforced steel capable of supporting the platform and house of the vehicle and the mast coupled to the vehicle [00104] The at least one lift block may have a substantially trapezoidal shape, including at least a lower surface and an opposed upper surface extending substantially parallel to one another. The lower surface may be connectable to a track or wheel assembly and the upper surface may be connectable to the platform.

[00105] The at least one lift block may further include opposed end surfaces, an angled outer side surface and an opposed inner surface extending orthogonally between the upper and lower surfaces.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00106] In preferred embodiments, the vehicle may include at least two lift blocks each connectable to a track or wheel assembly and a side portion ofthe platform.

[00107] The lift blocks may generally raise the platform and the house ofthe vehicle relative to the underlying ground surface. For example, the lift blocks may raise the platform and house of the vehicle by about 100mm, about 150mm, about 200mm, about 250mm, about 300mm, about 350mm, about 400mm, about 450mm, about 500mm, about 550mm, about 600mm, about 650mm, about 700mm, about 750mm, about 800mm, about 850mm, about 900mm, about 950mm, or even at least about 1,000mm. Typically, the lift block may raise the platform and the house by between about 600mm and about 850mm, preferably about 750mm.

[00108] In use, raising the platform and the house ofthe vehicle may advantageously provide clearance between an underside of the platform and the underlying ground surface for at least part of the mast to be received when stowed or rested in a lowered substantially horizontal position.

[00109] In some embodiments, the lift blocks may also offset the platform and the house of the vehicle relative to a remainder of the undercarriage. Typically, the lift blocks may offset the house and platform in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, preferably toward a rear of the vehicle.

[00110] The lift blocks may offset the house and platform toward a rear of the vehicle by about 50mm, about 60mm, about 70mm, about 80mm, about 90mm, about 100mm, about 110mm, about 120mm, about 130mm, about 140mm, about 150mm, about 160mm, about

170mm, about 180mm, about 190mm, about 200mm, about 210mm, about 220mm, about

230mm, about 240mm, about 250mm, about 260mm, about 270mm, about 280mm, about

290mm, about 300mm, about 310mm, about 320mm, about 330mm, about 340mm, about

350mm, about 360mm, about 370mm, about 380mm, about 390mm, about 400mm, about

410mm, about 420mm, about 430mm, about 440mm, about 450mm, about 460mm, about

470mm, about 480mm, about 490mm, or even at least about 500mm. Typically, the lift block may offset the platform and the house of the vehicle toward a rear of the vehicle by between about 200mm and about 400mm, preferably about 300mm.

[00111] In use, offsetting the platform and the house toward a rear of the vehicle relative to a remainder of the undercarriage at least partially enhances the stability of the vehicle when supporting the mast the substantially vertical position. Also, the offsetting assists in providing

2019203148 03 May 2019 clearance between an underside ofthe platform ofthe vehicle and the underlying ground surface when the mast is being raised from or lowered to the lowered substantially horizontal position.

[00112] In some embodiments, the lift blocks may also widen a distance between the respective track or wheel assemblies located on each side of the vehicle. For example, the lift blocks may widen each track or wheel assembly relative to a midline of the vehicle by about 500mm, about 550mm, about 600mm, about 650mm, about 700mm, about 750mm, about 800mm, about 850mm, about 900mm, about 950mm, about 1,000mm, about 1,050mm, about 1,100mm, about 1,150mm, about 1,200mm, about 1,250mm, about 1,300mm, about 1,350mm, about 1,400mm, about 1,450mm, about 1,500mm, about 1,550mm, about 1,600mm, about 1,650mm, about 1,700mm, about 1,750mm, about 1,800mm, about 1,850mm, about 1,900mm or even at least about 2,000mm. Typically, each lift block may widen each track or wheel assembly relative to the midline by between about 1,000mm and about 1,500mm, preferably about 1,400mm.

[00113] In use, widening the distance between the track or wheel assemblies may enhance the stability of the vehicle and thus the stability of the mast when supported by the vehicle in the substantially vertical position.

[00114] The mast may be coupled to the boom of the vehicle in any suitable way such that the mast may be movable between the substantially vertical position and the substantially vertical position.

[00115] The boom may preferably be coupled to a lower portion of the mast, preferably pivotally coupled to the base mast segment, to facilitate raising the mast to and from the substantially vertical position.

[00116] For example, in some embodiments, an outer end of the boom may include one or more bearings and the lower portion of the mast may include a bracket connectable to the outer end of the boom and one or more pivot pins for pinning the bearings to the bracket. The bearings may or may not include a polymer bushing.

[00117] In other embodiments, the bracket may include one or more bearings. Again, the bearings may or may not include a polymer bushing. The outer end of the boom may include one or more pivot pins for pinning the outer end of the boom to the bracket and coupling the mast to the vehicle.

[00118] In yet other embodiments, the mast may be pivotally coupled to the boom of the vehicle by a connecting mechanism or part of a connecting mechanism. For example, a first

2019203148 03 May 2019 part of the connecting mechanism associated with the mast may mate with or engage with a second part of the connecting mechanism associated with the outer end of the boom.

[00119] The connecting mechanism may include mateable male and female portions that pivotally couple together, including interference fit connections, for example. The connecting mechanism may include a male formation associated with the mast configured to be inserted into or coupled with a female formation associated with the outer end of the boom. Conversely, the connecting mechanism may include a female formation associated with the mast configured to at least partially receive or be coupled with a male formation associated with the outer end of the boom.

[00120] In preferred embodiments, the mast may include a mast attachment point configured to be pivotally coupled to the outer end of the boom. The mast attachment point may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[00121] Typically, the mast attachment point may extend outwardly from the vehicle facing side of the mast, preferably from a lower portion of the mast, more preferably from the base mast segment.

[00122] In one such embodiment, the mast attachment point may include two protruding connecting members having a pin extending therebetween, and the outer end of the boom may include a quick coupler configured to clamp onto the pin.

[00123] In another such embodiment, the mast attachment point may include at least one protruding connecting member having a central bore therethrough, and the outer end of the boom may likewise include at least two protruding connecting members each having a central bore therethrough, said protruding connecting members configured to intermesh and be pinned together by at least one pivot pin received through the central bores when co-aligned.

[00124] In yet another such embodiment, the mast attachment may include at least two protruding connecting members each having a central bore therethrough, and the outer end of the boom may likewise include at least one protruding connecting member having a central bore therethrough, said protruding connecting members configured to intermesh and be pinned together by at least one pivot pin received through the central bores when co-aligned.

[00125] Movement of the mast to and from the substantially vertical position may be driven by the boom and one or more linear actuators.

[00126] For example, the boom may be pivotable in vertical direction relative to the house of the vehicle to at least raise and lower the mast. The vertical movement of the boom may

2019203148 03 May 2019 preferably be driven by at least one linear actuator, preferably a hydraulic ram.

[00127] In some embodiments, the boom may include at least one further linear actuator coupled directly to the mast for pivoting the mast between a substantially horizontal orientation and a substantially vertical orientation. The at least one further linear actuator may also be coupled to an outer end portion of the boom. Again, the at least one further linear actuator may preferably be a hydraulic ram.

[00128] In some such embodiments, the at least one further linear actuator may be coupled directly to the vehicle side of the mast, typically pivotally coupled to a second mast attachment point located above a first mast attachment point described above. The linear actuator may be pivotally coupled as described above or according to other means known in the art.

[00129] In other such embodiments, the mast may include an attachment sub-frame extending outwardly from the vehicle side of the mast, preferably the base mast segment. The attachment sub-frame may be configured to be pivotally coupled to the at least one further linear actuator. Again, the linear actuator may be pivotally coupled as described above or according to other means known in the art.

[00130] Advantageously, the attachment sub-frame may facilitate in pivoting the mast from a substantially horizontal orientation to a substantially vertical orientation.

[00131] As indicated above, the apparatus includes a cable drive assembly for driving the tubular member and the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member into the underlying ground surface.

[00132] The cable drive assembly includes a drive drum, at least one sheave and a cable extending between the drive drum, the at least one sheave and an upper end of the tubular member.

[00133] Typically, the drive assembly includes at least two sheaves, including an upper sheave mounted to the upper end of the mast and a lower sheave mounted to the lower end of the mast.

[00134] The cable may usually be a steel wire cable. Preferably, the cable may be a closed loop cable.

[00135] Generally, the cable may extend from the drive drum to a first sheave, from the first sheave to the upper end of the tubular member, from the upper end of the tubular member to the second sheave, and from the second sheave back to the drive drum.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00136] To drive the tubular member into the underlying ground surface, the drive drum may rotate in a first direction and wind in cable via the lower sheave, functioning as the lead sheave, to thereby drive the tubular member coupled to the cable in a downward direction.

[00137] To retract or withdraw the tubular member from the underlying ground surface, the drive drum may rotate in an opposite direction and wind in the cable via the upper sheave, functioning as the lead sheave, to thereby draw the tubular member connected to the cable in an upward direction.

[00138] The drive drum may be of any suitable size, shape and construction. The drive drum may include a spool and a motor for driving rotation of the spool. The motor may be an electric, hydraulic or combustion motor, for example.

[00139] As indicated, the drive drum is slidably mounted to the lower end of the mast such that the drive drum is slidable back and forth across the mast to at least partially reduce a fleet angle of a portion of the cable extending between the drive drum and the lead sheave.

[00140] Preferably, the drive drum may be slidably coupled to the mast at a lower location along the mast than the location at which the mast is pivotally coupled to the boom of the vehicle. Advantageously, by positioning the drive drum below the pivot point of the mast, the weight of the drive drum may at least partially assist in pivoting the mast between the substantially horizontal and substantially vertical positions.

[00141] In preferred embodiments, the drive drum may slide back and forth across the mast to substantially maintain the fleet angle at about 0° (i.e., to keep the cable spooling on and off the drive drum at a constant angle, usually perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the drive drum).

[00142] Advantageously, by reducing the fleet angle or maintaining a fleet angle of about 0°, the slidably mounted drive drum may at least partially assist stabilising the mast, particularly during use and/or when the mast has a length greater than 40m.

[00143] The drive drum may be slidably mounted in any suitable way. Preferably, however, the drive drum may be slidably mounted beneath the coupling point with the vehicle.

[00144] For example, in some embodiments, the mast may include a rail extending laterally across the mast and the drive drum may include one or more wheels or rollers for moving along the rail and thereby moving the drive drum back and forth across the mast.

[00145] The rail may include any form of guided or directional conveyance. For example, the rail may include a track. Preferably, the rail may prevent separation of the drive drum away

2019203148 03 May 2019 from the rail and mast.

[00146] In some embodiments, movement of the drive drum in a back and forth direction across the mast may be driven. For example, the drive drum may include a further motor for driving movement of the drive drum along the rail. Again, the further motor may be an electric, hydraulic or combustion motor, for example.

[00147] In some embodiments, operation of the further motor to control movement of the drive drum across the mast to at least partially reduce fleet angles may be manually controlled, e.g., by an operator.

[00148] In preferred embodiments, however, movement of the drive across the mast to at least partially reduce fleet angles may be automated.

[00149] For example, in some such embodiments, the cable drive assembly may further include at least one sensor capable of detecting any divergence of the cable from about a 0° fleet angle and a controller operatively connected to the at least one sensor. The at least one sensor, the controller, the further motor and other electrical components of the cable drive assembly may be operatively connected to one another via an electrical circuit.

[00150] Responsive to receiving any fleet angle divergence of the cable being spooled on the drive drum, the controller may operate the further motor to slide the drive drum across the mast in a direction that may at least partially reduce the fleet angle, preferably maintain a fleet angle of about 0°.

[00151] The at least one sensor may of any suitable type. Typically, however, the at least one sensor may be a laser measuring device capable of measuring a distance between a location where the cable is being spooled onto the drive drum and a flange of the drive drum.

[00152] In preferred embodiments, the at least one sheave may be manufactured from a light-weight, strong and durable material or materials. For example, the at least one sheave may be manufactured from a non-metal material, such as, e.g., a plastic, rubber and/or composition material or materials, preferably a polymer material. Preferably, the at least one sheave may be mounted to the mast with light weight metal sheave mounts, such as, e.g., an aluminium sheave mount.

[00153] Advantageously, manufacturing the sheave from a non-metal material and the sheave mounted plates from a light weight metallic material results in a considerable weight saving, which thereby enhances the stability of the mast and operation of the mast at lengths greater than 40m.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00154] In some embodiments, the apparatus may include one or more motion sensors for monitoring movement around the apparatus when being used.

[00155] The motion sensors may be of any suitable type known in the art capable of sensing at least human movement around the apparatus. For example, the one or more motion sensors may include passive infrared sensors, microwave sensors and/or ultrasonic sensors. Preferably, the motion sensors may include an ultrasonic sensor.

[00156] The motion sensors may be mounted on the mast or vehicle, preferably the former.

[00157] In preferred embodiments, the apparatus may include at least two motion sensors each mounted on an arm bracket extending outwardly from the mast, preferably from opposite sides of the mast.

[00158] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further include a navigational unit for orientating and aligning the apparatus to a desired path along the underlying ground surface. The navigational unit may be of any form suitably adapted to orientate and align the apparatus. Preferably, the navigational unit may be a global positioning satellite (“GPS”) system.

[00159] The GPS system may be located at any suitable location on the apparatus. For example, the GPS system may be located on the vehicle, the tubular member, the cable drive assembly or the mast, preferably the mast.

[00160] As indicated above, the mast may include open or closed ends. Generally, the mast may include an open upper end and a closed lower end. However, the closed lower end may preferably define a tubular member opening for passage of the tubular member therethrough.

[00161] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further include a cleaning device configured to be fitted over the tubular member opening for removing soil substrate from a length of the tubular member as the tubular member is retracted back into the mast.

[00162] The cleaning device may be of any suitable size, shape and form.

[00163] For example, in some embodiments, the cleaning device may be in the form of one or more brushes configured to be fitted about a periphery of the tubular member opening.

[00164] In other embodiments, the cleaning device may include at least one spray outlet mounted along a peripheral edge of the tubular member opening and configured to direct a jet spray of a cleaning fluid at the tubular member as it is retracted. The cleaning fluid may be water or a water-based composition including a detergent, for example.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00165] In yet other embodiments, the cleaning device may include a cartridge configured to be fitted over the tubular member opening and have the tubular member drawn through the cartridge to remove soil substrate as the tubular member is retracted into the mast.

[00166] The cartridge may typically be sized and shaped to befitted over the tubular member opening, preferably slidably fitted in one or more retaining grooves located about a periphery of the tubular member opening.

[00167] The cartridge may include a central opening for passage of the tubular member therethrough.

[00168] The cartridge may preferably be formed from a rubber or plastic material or materials.

[00169] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of inserting an elongate flexible drain member into an underlying ground surface with the apparatus of the first aspect, said method including:

driving the ground surface penetrating tubular member of the apparatus into the underlying ground surface to a desired depth together with at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member; and retracting the tubular member from the ground surface while leaving the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member in the ground surface.

[00170] The method may include one or more characteristics or features of the apparatus, the mast, the tubular member and the cable drive assembly as hereinbefore described.

[00171] For example, the driving may include operating the cable drive assembly to rotate the drive drum in a first direction to drive the tubular member downwards into the underlying ground surface.

[00172] Conversely, the retracting may include operating the cable drive assembly to rotate the drive drum in an opposite direction to the first direction to retract the tubular member upwards and out from the underlying ground surface.

[00173] In some embodiments, the method may include an initial step of attaching a retaining member to an end of the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member prior to said driving.

[00174] The retaining member may include any suitable anchoring device for anchoring and retaining the portion of the elongate flexible drain member in the ground surface after it has been driven into the ground surface to a desired depth. Preferably, the retaining member may include

2019203148 03 May 2019 an anchor plate.

[00175] In preferred embodiments, the attaching may include threading a small length of the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member extending beyond the lower ground penetrating end through the anchor plate and folding the small length back alongside the drain member and in the tubular member.

[00176] The method may further include, after said retracting, cutting a portion of the elongate flexible drain member extending between the underlying ground surface and the tubular member and repeating said attaching.

[00177] The driving may further include drawing another portion of the elongate flexible drain member from an external source. The retracting may further include feeding the another portion drawn from the external source into the passage of the tubular member via the upper end of the tubular member.

[00178] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[00179] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [00180] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[00181] Figure 1 is a photograph showing a front perspective view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention with a mast of the apparatus in a substantially vertical position;

[00182] Figure 2 is a photograph showing another front perspective view of part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 with the mast in a substantially horizontal position;

[00183] Figure 3 is a photograph showing a rear perspective view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2 with the mast being moved between the substantially horizontal and the

2019203148 03 May 2019 substantially vertical positions;

[00184] Figure 4 is a photograph showing a side view of an upper end of the mast shown in Figures 1 to 3;

[00185] Figure 5 is a photograph showing a top view of the mast shown in Figure 4;

[00186] Figure 6 is a photograph showing a drive drum of a cable drive assembly of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 3;

[00187] Figure 7 is a photograph showing an expanded part of the drive drum shown in Figure 6;

[00188] Figure 8 is a photograph showing a lower end view of the mast of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 3;

[00189] Figure 9 is a photograph showing a side view of a vehicle of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 3;

[00190] Figure 10 is a photograph showing an expanded end view of the vehicle shown in Figure 9; and [00191] Figure 11 is a photograph showing a stabiliser ofthe vehicle shown in Figures 9 and 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [00192] Figures 1 to 3 show an apparatus (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention for driving an elongate flexible drain member into an underlying ground surface.

[00193] The apparatus (10) includes: a mast (100) adapted to be arranged in a substantially vertical position (as shown in Figure 1) above the underlying ground surface, said mast (100) including a longitudinally extending chamber (110); a vehicle (200) for supporting the mast (100) and adapted to raise and lower the mast (100) to and from the substantially vertical position and to otherwise manipulate and transport the mast; a mandrel (not visible; i.e., a ground surface penetrating tubular member) configured for vertical movement in said longitudinally extending chamber (110) and having a passage therethrough for receiving at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member for movement therewith; and a cable drive assembly (300) for driving said mandrel into and out ofthe underlying ground surface.

[00194] Referring to Figure 1, the mast (100) is constructed from high tensile strength grade

2019203148 03 May 2019 steel. The mast (100) includes a lower end (102) and an opposed upper end (104). The mast (100) extends longitudinally between the lower end (102) and the opposed upper end (104).

[00195] The mast (100) is formed from three longitudinally extending side frame members (120) arranged in a triangular arrangement relative to one another and joined together by a plurality of cross frame members (130). Accordingly, the mast (100) has three external sides extending longitudinally between the opposed ends (102, 104), including a vehicle facing side (106) and a pair of converging sides (108) that converge to an outer longitudinally extending side frame member (120a) located opposite the vehicle facing side (106).

[00196] The frame members (120, 130) are of tubular construction with a substantially square-shaped cross-section. The various frame members (120, 130) are permanently joined together using conventional welding techniques.

[00197] To enhance the stability of the mast (100) particularly when transitioning between the substantially vertical position (as shown in Figure 1) and a substantially horizontal position (as shown in Figure 2), the outer longitudinally extending side frame member (120a) is reinforced by a further side frame member extending within the side frame member (120a).

[00198] The further side frame member also has a substantially square-shaped cross-section and is axially rotated about 45° relative to the side frame member (120a) such that each external corner edge of the further side frame member abuts against an internal surface of a sidewall of the side frame member (120a) to reinforce the sidewalls of the side frame member (120a).

[00199] The mast (100) is formed from two or more mast segments (140) connected together in an end-to-end arrangement. As shown, the mast (100) includes a base mast segment (140a), which is coupled to the vehicle (200), and an upper mast segment (140b) crowning the mast (100).

[00200] In scenarios in which a mast (100) of greater length is required, one or more further mast segments can be connected between the base mast segment (140a) and the upper mast segment (140b) in an end-to-end arrangement until a desired length is achieved.

[00201] The upper mast segment (140b) tapers in width from a lower end to the upper end (104). Advantageously, the tapering in width results in a considerable weight reduction thereby enhancing the overall stability of the mast (100) when held and when being raised and lowered to and from the substantially vertical position.

[00202] The mast segments (140) are detachably connected together by one or more mechanical fasteners, such as, e.g., bolts.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00203] As indicated above, the mast (100) includes the longitudinally extending chamber (110) for receiving and allowing vertical movement of the mandrel therein. The chamber (110) is defined by an elongate body (112), which is also constructed from steel.

[00204] The body (112) defining the chamber (110) has a substantially rectangular crosssectional shape. The body (112) includes four sidewalls extending longitudinally between opposed open ends, including a lower end (114) and an opposed upper end (116).

[00205] The body (112) extends longitudinally along an inner surface of the vehicle facing side (106) of the mast (100) in a linear direction between the opposed ends (102, 104) of the mast (100). The body (112) is welded to one or more of the cross frame members (130) defining the vehicle facing side (106) of the mast (100).

[00206] The body (112) includes a slot (118; visible only in Figure 5) extending entirely along a sidewall between the ends (114, 116) to enable a cable or coupling between the cable and an upper end of the mandrel to slide when the mandrel is driven into and out of the underlying ground surface.

[00207] The mandrel is formed from hardened steel and includes opposed open ends, including a lower ground penetrating end and an opposed upper end releasably coupled with the cable drive assembly (300) via the cable. The mandrel has a substantially rectangularshaped cross-section and extending longitudinally between the opposed open ends.

[00208] As indicated, the mandrel includes a passage extending between the opposed open ends for receiving at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member for movement therewith.

[00209] The portion of the elongate flexible drain member extends entirely through the passage of the mandrel from the upper end to the lower ground penetrating end for driving into the underlying ground surface.

[00210] A lower end of the portion of the elongate flexible drain member is anchored at the lower ground penetrating end of the mandrel to ensure that the portion of the drain member is retained in the ground surface. Typically, a small length of the portion extending beyond the lower ground penetrating end is threaded through an anchor plate (not shown) and folded back alongside itself within the mandrel.

[00211] The elongate flexible drain member is supplied from an external source, such as, e.g., a supply roll, on which a predetermined length of the elongate flexible drain member is wound.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00212] Typically, the elongate flexible drain member extends upwardly from the supply roll associated near a lower end (102) of the mast (100) to the upper end (104) of the mast (100) where it passes between two guide rollers (410; shown in Figures 4 and 5 only) and then downwardly through the passage ofthe mandrel (not shown).

[00213] In use, the mandrel drives the portion ofthe elongate flexible drain member into the underlying ground surface where it is retained by the anchor plate as the mandrel retracts.

[00214] The driving of the mandrel into the underlying ground surface additionally draws another portion ofthe elongate flexible drain member from the supply roll.

[00215] The retraction of the mandrel from the underlying ground surface feeds the drawn portion of the elongate flexible drain member into the passage of the mandrel in preparation to be driven into the underlying ground surface with the next downward movement of the mandrel.

[00216] Referring to Figure 3, the vehicle (200) for supporting and moving the mast (100) is an excavator including a boom (212) coupled to the mast (100) for raising and lowering the mast (100) between the substantially vertical position (shown in Figure 1) and the substantially horizontal position (shown in Figure 2).

[00217] The vehicle (200) includes a house (210) and an undercarriage (220) rotatably coupled to one another. The house (210) includes the boom (212), an operator cab and an engine. The undercarriage (220) include a platform (222) and a track assembly (224) located on each side of the platform (222).

[00218] The boom (212) is pivotable upwards and downwards relative to the house (210) and a remainder of the vehicle (200). Pivoting of the boom (212) is driven by a hydraulic ram.

[00219] An outer end ofthe boom (212) is pivotally coupled to a mast attachment point (160) located on a lower portion of the mast (100) to facilitate raising and lowering the mast (100) between the substantially vertical and substantially horizontal positions.

[00220] The mast attachment point (160) includes two connecting portions protruding outwardly from the vehicle facing side (106) of the mast (100). Each connecting portion has a central bore therethrough. Likewise, the outer end of the boom (212) includes two protruding connecting portions each having a central bore therethrough. The respective connecting portions are configured to be pinned together by a pivot pin received through the central bores when co-aligned.

[00221] The boom (212) further includes a hydraulic ram (213) pivotally coupled to the mast

2019203148 03 May 2019 (100) via an attachment sub-frame (170) to pivot the mast (100) between the substantially horizontal and vertical positions.

[00222] Best shown in Figure 2, the attachment sub-frame (170) extends outwardly from the vehicle facing side (106) of the mast (100). The attachment sub-frame (170) facilitates in pivoting the mast (100) between a substantially horizontal orientation and a substantially vertical orientation by at least reducing the distance between the mast (100) and the hydraulic ram (213) associated with the outer end of the boom (212).

[00223] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the vehicle (200) differs from ordinary excavators in that the counterweights have been relocated from the house (210) to alongside an inner surface of a side frame of each track assembly (224) of the undercarriage (220). Specifically, the counterweights are adjustable and in the form of one or more plates mountable to the inner surface of a side frame of each track assembly (224).

[00224] The vehicle (200) further includes two lift blocks (230) located between the platform (222) and each respective track assembly (224).

[00225] Each lift block (230) is constructed from reinforced steel capable of supporting the platform (222) and the house (210) of the vehicle (200) and the mast (100) coupled to the vehicle (200).

[00226] Best shown in Figure 10, each lift block (230) has a substantially trapezoidal shape, including at least a lower surface (232) and an opposed upper surface (234) extending substantially parallel to one another. The lower surface (232) is connectable to the track assembly (224) and the upper surface (234) is connectable to the platform (222).

[00227] Each lift block (230) further include opposed end surfaces (235), an angled outer side surface (236) and an opposed inner surface (238) extending orthogonally between the upper and lower surfaces (232, 234).

[00228] In use, the lift blocks (230) raise the platform (222) and the house (210) of the vehicle (200) relative to the underlying ground surface to advantageously provide clearance for the lower end (102) of the mast (200) to be received when stowed or rested in the substantially horizontal position (as also shown in Figure 2).

[00229] Best shown in Figure 9, the lift blocks (230) also offset the platform (222) and the house (210) of the vehicle (200) relative to a remainder of the undercarriage (220) in a longitudinal direction toward a rear of the vehicle (200).

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00230] Offsetting the platform (222) and the house (210) toward a rear of the vehicle (200) enhances the stability of the vehicle (200) when supporting and/or raising and lowering the mast (not visible).

[00231] Referring again to Figure 10, the lift blocks (230) also widen a distance between the respective track assemblies (224) located on each side of the vehicle (200) thereby enhancing the stability of the vehicle (200) when supporting and/or raising and lowering the mast (100).

[00232] Referring to Figure 11, the vehicle (200) further includes a pair of stabilisers (240) for stabilising the vehicle (200) when the mast (100; not shown) is in the substantially vertical position and the mandrel is being driven into and out of the underlying ground surface and/or when raising and lowering the mast (100).

[00233] Each stabiliser (240) includes a leg (242) connectable at one end to a front end of an inner surface of a side frame member of a respective track assembly (224) and connectable at an opposite end to a foot (244). The foot (244) is configured to engage with and abut against the underlying ground surface.

[00234] Each stabiliser (240) is moveable between a lowered position in which the foot (244) is lowered relative to the vehicle (200) for engaging the underlying ground surface and a raised position in which the foot (242) is held clear of the underlying ground surface. Movement of each stabiliser (240) between the lowered and raised positions is driven by a hydraulic ram (not shown).

[00235] Referring back to Figure 1, the cable drive assembly (300) of the apparatus (10) drives the mandrel and a portion of the elongate flexible drain member into the underlying ground surface.

[00236] The cable drive assembly (300) includes a drive drum (310), a pair of sheaves (320) each mounted at opposed ends (102, 104) of the mast (100) and a cable (not shown) extending between the drive drum (310), the sheaves (320) and an upper end of the mandrel (not shown).

[00237] The cable is a steel wire cable and is a closed loop cable. The cable extends from the drive drum (310) to a first sheave (320), from the first sheave (320) to the upper end of the mandrel, from the upper end of the mandrel to a second sheave (320), and from the second sheave (320) back to the drive drum (310).

[00238] To drive the mandrel into the underlying ground surface, the drive drum (310) rotates in a drive direction and winds in cable via the lower sheave (320), functioning as a lead sheave, to thereby drive the mandrel coupled to the cable in a downward direction.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00239] To retract or withdraw the mandrel from the underlying ground surface, the drive drum (310) rotates in a retract direction (opposite to the drive direction) and winds in the cable via the upper sheave (320), now functioning as the lead sheave, to thereby draw the mandrel connected to the cable in an upward direction.

[00240] Figures 4 and 5 show the upper sheave (320) in detail rotatably mounted to the upper end (104) of the mast (100). The lower sheave (not visible) is of identical construction to the upper sheave (320).

[00241] The sheaves (320) are manufactured from a light-weight, strong and durable polymer material. Moreover, the sheaves (320) are rotatably mounted to the mast (100) with aluminium sheave mounts (322).

[00242] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the drive drum (310) includes a spool (312) and a motor (314) for driving rotation of the spool (312).

[00243] Best shown in Figure 6, the drive drum (310) is slidably mounted to a lower end portion of the mast (100) such that the drive drum (310) is slidable back and forth across the mast (100) to maintain a fleet angle of about 0° for a portion of cable extending between the drive drum (310) and a lead sheave (320; not visible).

[00244] The drive drum (310) is slidably mounted to the mast (100) by a rail arrangement (500). The rail arrangement (500) includes a rail (510) extending laterally across the mast (100) and wheels or rollers associated with the drive drum (310) for moving the drive drum (310) back and forth along the rail (510).

[00245] Referring to Figure 7, the rail arrangement (500) further includes rail motor (520) associated with the drive drum (310) for driving movement of the drive drum (310) back and forth along the rail (510).

[00246] Referring back to Figure 6, movement of the drive drum (310) back and forth along the rail (510) is automated. Specifically, the cable drive assembly (300) further includes at least one sensor capable of detecting any divergence of the cable from about a 0° fleet angle and a controller operatively connected to the at least one sensor. The at least one sensor, the controller, the rail motor (520) and other electrical components of the cable drive assembly (300) are operatively connected to one another via an electrical circuit.

[00247] Responsive to receiving any fleet angle divergence of the cable being spooled on the drive drum (310), the controller controls operation of the rail motor (520) to move the drive drum (310) along the rail (510) in a direction to maintain a fleet angle of about 0°.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00248] Figure 8 shows the lower end (102) of the mast (100). Unlike the opposed upper end (104; not shown), the lower end (102) is closed but includes a mandrel opening (810) for passage of the mandrel therethrough. The mandrel opening (810) further includes a cartridge opening (812) for having a cleaning cartridge (not shown) slidably fitted over the mandrel opening (810) to remove soil substrate from the mandrel as it is drawn through the mandrel opening (810).

[00249] The cleaning cartridge is formed from rubber and includes a central opening for passage of the mandrel therethrough.

[00250] A method of using the apparatus (10) as shown in Figures 1 to 11 is now described in detail.

[00251] The method includes an initial step of moving the apparatus (10) to a desired location where the elongate flexible drain member is to be driven into an underlying ground surface.

[00252] The apparatus (10) is then stabilised by moving each stabiliser (240) into the lowered position such that the foot (244) of the stabiliser (240) engages with the underlying ground surface.

[00253] An anchor plate is attached to an end of a portion of the elongate flexible drain member to retain the portion in the ground surface after it has been driven into the ground surface to a desired depth.

[00254] The mandrel with the portion of the elongate flexible drain member is then driven into the underlying ground surface. Specifically, the cable drive assembly (300) is operated to rotate the drive drum (310) in the drive direction to drive the mandrel downwards [00255] The driving of the mandrel into the underlying ground surface contemporaneously draws another portion of the elongate flexible drain member from an external supply roll.

[00256] Once the mandrel has been driven into the ground surface to a desired depth, the mandrel is retracted by rotating the drive drum (310) of the cable drive assembly (300) in the retract direction. The mandrel is then retracted from the ground surface leaving the portion of the elongate flexible drain member in the ground surface.

[00257] The retracting of the mandrel from the underlying ground surface contemporaneously feeds the next portion of the elongate flexible drain member, drawn from the external supply roll during the driving of the mandrel into the ground, into the passage of the mandrel via the upper end of the mandrel.

2019203148 03 May 2019 [00258] After retracting the mandrel entirely from the ground surface, a portion of the elongate flexible drain member extending between the underlying ground surface and the lower end of the mandrel is severed, the stabilisers (240) are moved to the raised positions and the apparatus (10) is moved to the next desired location for insertion of an elongate flexible drain member.

[00259] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise 'include each ofthe stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00260] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00261] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (22)

1. An apparatus for driving an elongate flexible drain member into an underlying ground surface, said apparatus including:

a mast adapted to be arranged in a substantially vertical position above the ground surface, said mast including three longitudinally extending side frame members arranged in a triangular arrangement relative to one another and joined together by a plurality of cross frame members, said mast having therein a longitudinally extending chamber;

a vehicle for supporting the mast and adapted to raise and lower the mast to and from the substantially vertical position and to otherwise manipulate and transport the mast;

a ground surface penetrating tubular member configured for vertical movement in said longitudinally extending chamber of the mast, said tubular member having a passage therethrough for receiving at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member for movement therewith; and a cable drive assembly for driving said tubular member into and out of the underlying ground surface, said drive assembly including a drive drum, at least one sheave and a cable extending between the drive drum, the at least one sheave and an upper end of the tubular member, said drive drum being slidably mounted to a lower end of the mast such that the drive drum is slidable back and forth across the mast to at least partially reduce a fleet angle of a portion ofthe cable extending between the drive drum and the at least one sheave.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mast has a length ranging from about 30m to about 70m.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the mast is formed from segments joined together in an end-to-end arrangement.

4. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one or more of the side frame members includes at least one reinforcing member extending at least partially along each internal corner of the side frame member.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one reinforcing member is a gusset plate.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one reinforcing member is a further frame member extending within an internal passage of the side frame member.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the further frame member is axially rotated about 45° relative to the side frame member such that each corner edge of the further frame member abuts and reinforces the internal surface of a sidewall of the side frame member.

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8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the vehicle includes a boom configured to be coupled to the mast for raising and lowering and otherwise manipulating the mast.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the vehicle includes wheel or track assemblies for movement of the vehicle across an underlying ground surface.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the vehicle includes a house and an undercarriage rotatably coupled to one another, wherein the house include a boom, an operator cab and an engine and wherein the undercarriage includes a platform and a track or wheel assembly located on each side of the platform.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the vehicle further includes at least one stabiliser for stabilising the vehicle when the mast is in the substantially vertical position and the tubular member is being driven into and out of the underlying ground surface.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least one stabiliser is located at or near a front of the vehicle.

13. The apparatus of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the at least one stabiliser includes a leg and a foot and wherein the stabiliser is moveable between a lowered position in which the foot is lowered relative to the vehicle for engaging the underlying ground surface and a raised position in which the foot is held clear of the underlying ground surface.

14. The apparatus of any one of claims 11 to 13 when dependent upon claim 10, wherein the vehicle further includes at least one lift block located between the platform and a respective said track or wheel assembly, said lift block configured to raise the platform and the house relative to the underlying ground surface to provide clearance for at least part of the mast to be received when stowed or rested in a lowered substantially horizontal position.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the lift block further offsets the house and platform toward a rear of the vehicle to at least partially enhance stability of the vehicle when supporting the mast in the substantially vertical position.

16. The apparatus of claim 14 or claim 15, where the lift block further widens a distance between respective track or wheel assemblies located on each side of the vehicle to at least partially enhance stability of the vehicle when supporting the mast in the substantially vertical position.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the drive drum is slidably coupled

2019203148 03 May 2019 to the mast at a lower location along the mast than a location at which the mast is pivotally coupled to a boom of the vehicle.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the slidably mounted drive drum is adapted to maintain a fleet angle at about 0° to at least partially assist in stabilising the mast during use.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the drive drum includes a motor for driving movement of the drive drum along a rail extending laterally across the mast.

19. The apparatus of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein movement of the drive drum across the mast to at least partially reduce the fleet angles is automated.

20. The apparatus of claim 19 when dependent upon claim 18, wherein the cable drive assembly further includes at least one sensor capable of detecting any divergence of the cable from about a 0° fleet angle and a controller operatively connected to the at least one sensor and the motor, wherein responsive to sensing any fleet angle divergence of the cable being spooled on the drive drum, the controller operates the motor to slide the drive drum across the mast in a direction that at least partially reduces the fleet angle.

21. A drive assembly for use with or when used with the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 20, said drive assembly including a drive drum, at least one sheave and a cable extending between the drive drum, the at least one sheave and an upper end of the tubular member, said drive drum being slidably mounted to a lower end of the mast such that the drive drum is slidable back and forth across the mast to at least partially reduce a fleet angle of a portion of the cable extending between the drive drum and the at least one sheave.

22. A method of inserting an elongate flexible drain member into an underlying ground surface with the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 20, said method including:

driving the ground surface penetrating tubular member of the apparatus into the underlying ground surface to a desired depth together with at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member; and retracting the tubular member from the ground surface while leaving the at least a portion of the elongate flexible drain member in the ground surface.