GB2583837A

GB2583837A - Blocking member

Info

Publication number: GB2583837A
Application number: GB2004135.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Siverns Michael
Original assignee: C R Macdonald Ltd
Current assignee: C R Macdonald Ltd
Priority date: 2020-03-23
Filing date: 2020-03-23
Publication date: 2020-11-11
Anticipated expiration: 2040-03-23
Also published as: GB202004135D0; GB2583837B

Abstract

A blocking member or cut-off shoe for installation under a road paver comprises a substantially flat ground engaging surface, a blocking surface 11 obverse to the ground engaging surface and first and second opposed side surfaces 12, 13. The side surfaces each slope inwardly in a direction from the ground engaging surface towards the blocking surface. In use, the blocking member at least partially blocks the road surface material dispersal region, allowing the width of the laid surface to be narrower than the minimum width otherwise provided by the paving machine. The blocking member may comprise an elongate channel 16 extending into the blocking surface between the first and second side surfaces. The blocking member may comprise a strengthening member 17 between the side surfaces, and may further comprise one or more handles and a plate with a frame F. Also claimed is a vehicle comprising a blocking member removably installed between a screed and a control plate. A method of laying a road surface includes providing a vehicle with a blocking member and a method of installing a blocking member includes providing an elongate channel in the blocking member for engaging with a screed end plate.

Description

BLOCKING MEMBER

This invention relates generally to a blocking member for installation under a vehicle for laying road surfaces. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to vehicle for laying road surfaces with a blocking member removably installed thereunder. Additionally, this invention relates to a method of laying a road surface and to a method of installing a blocking member under a vehicle for laying road surfaces.

It is necessary to lay road surfaces for many routes on which there is traffic (e.g. motor vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles and the like). The road surfaces are formed using road surface materials, e.g. asphalt, concrete and the like. Road surfaces are typically laid using a paving machine or paver.

is The process of laying a road surface comprises loose road surface material being provided to a paving machine, and the paving machine then being moved along the route of the road surface to be laid. As the paving machine is moved, it disperses loose road surface material across its width. A screed at the rear of the paving machine flattens the dispersed loose road surface material. A separate rolling machine is then moved across the flattened road surface material to compress it.

Using a paving machine is a relatively cost and time efficient method of laying a road surface. However, the road surface to be laid must be of a minimum width for a paving machine to be usable to lay that road surface.

If it is desired to lay a road surface which is narrower than the minimum width provided by a paving machine, then the paving machine cannot be used. Instead, loose road surface material is typically distributed and flattened by hand. As will be appreciated, distributing loose road surface material by hand is slower and more costly in terms of manpower than is use of a paving machine. Further, distributing the loose road surface material by hand introduces the risk of an uneven distribution across the road surface, resulting in a lower road surface quality.

It is therefore a first non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a means, vehicle or method which overcomes or at least partially mitigates one or more of the above-described problems.

Accordingly, an aspect of the invention provides a blocking member for installation under a vehicle for laying road surfaces, the blocking member comprising: a substantially flat (e.g. flat) ground engaging surface; a blocking surface obverse to the ground engaging surface; and first and second opposed side surfaces which each slope inwardly in a direction from the ground engaging surface towards the blocking surface.

An aspect of the invention provides a blocking member for installation under a vehicle for laying road surfaces, the blocking member comprising: a substantially flat (e.g. flat) ground engaging surface; a blocking surface obverse to the ground engaging surface; and first and io second opposed side surfaces which each slope inwardly in a direction from the ground engaging surface towards the blocking surface; where the blocking member is configured (e.g. sized and/or shaped) to at least partially block (e.g. to block, for example entirely) the road surface material dispersal region (e.g. area) of a vehicle for laying roads, when the blocking member has been installed under said vehicle.

Advantageously, when a blocking member according to the invention is installed under a vehicle for laying road surfaces the vehicle lays, in use, a road surface having a relatively reduced width (with respect to the minimum laying width of the vehicle absent the blocking member). In use, the blocking member acts to block at least part of the road surface material dispersal region of the vehicle (into which loose road surface material is dispersed by the vehicle, in use, prior to being flattened by the vehicle). That portion of the road surface material dispersal region thereby does not have loose road surface material on the ground under the vehicle. In this way, the width of the laid road surface is relatively reduced.

The ground engaging surface may be a major surface of the blocking member. The blocking surface may be a major surface of the blocking member.

In embodiments, the first and/or second opposed side surfaces may slope at an angle of between 15 and 75 degrees relative to the ground engaging surface, for example between 15, 20, 25, 30 or 35 and 50, 55, 60, 65 and 70 degrees relative to the ground engaging surface, say at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the ground engaging surface.

In embodiments, the blocking member may comprise an elongate channel, for example extending into the blocking surface (e.g. and extending between the first and second opposed side surfaces). The elongate channel may extend through one or both of the first and second opposed side surfaces.

In embodiments, the inside of the elongate channel may be free of restrictions and/or projections.

In embodiments, the elongate channel may extend in a direction adjacent to an end or end surface of the blocking member. The blocking member may comprise an end or end surface, for example extending between the first and second opposed side surfaces. The to elongate channel may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the end or end surface (for example parallel to the end or end surface).

In embodiments, the elongate channel may extend in a direction perpendicular (e.g. substantially) to the first and/or the second side surface of the blocking member.

In embodiments, the blocking member may comprise a strengthening member, for example extending thereacross (e.g. between the first and second side surfaces).

In embodiments, the strengthening member may extend from the first to the second opposed side surface of the blocking member.

In embodiments, the blocking member may have the shape of a parallelogram, in plan.

In embodiments, the blocking member may have a rectangular shape, in plan.

In embodiments, the blocking member may comprise a plate. The blocking member may comprise a frame. The blocking member may comprise a plate with a frame secured thereto. The blocking member (at least a portion thereof) may be formed of metal. The frame may be formed of metal. The plate may be formed of metal. The frame may be secured to the plate via welding. Additionally or alternatively, the frame may be secured to the plate via one or more fasteners (for example one or more nuts and bolts, or the like). The frame may comprise plural sections of hollow tube, for example having a square cross-section. The frame may comprise the strengthening member (where provided). The elongate channel (where provided) may be at least partially defined between two portions of the frame. For example, the elongate channel may be at least partially defined between a first frame section and a second frame section, e.g. between first and second parallel and spaced apart frame sections.

In embodiments, the slope of the first side surface and/or the second side surface may be provided by edge plates, e.g. secured to the plate and/or the frame (where provided).

In embodiments, the blocking member may be free from any features or projections which extend outboard of the ground engaging surface (e.g. as seen in plan).

io In embodiments, the blocking member may comprise carrying means, for example configured to enable a single worker to lift and/or carry the blocking member (e.g. in a generally horizontal orientation). The carrying means may comprise one or more handles. The carrying means may comprise two handles. The or each handle may be secured at or to the blocking surface of the blocking member. For example, the or each handle may be welded or adhered at or to the blocking surface of the blocking member. In embodiments the or each handle may be welded to the frame (where provided) of the blocking member. The or each handle may be welded to an inside surface of the frame of the blocking member. Where there are plural handles a first handle may be positioned at or adjacent a first end or end surface of the blocking member. A second handle may be positioned at or adjacent a second end or end surface of the blocking member. The first and second ends or end surfaces may be opposed to one another. In embodiments the handle or handles may comprise a recess or aperture into the frame. The or each handle may be inboard of the periphery of the blocking surface and/or the ground engaging surface, e.g. as seen in plan. The or each handle may be formed from metal.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a combination of a vehicle for laying road surfaces and a blocking member as described herein.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle for laying road surfaces with a blocking member as described herein removably installed under the vehicle.

In embodiments, the vehicle may comprise a screed, e.g. and a control plate. The control plate may be located under the vehicle. The screed and the control plate may be spaced from one another, for example to thereby at least partially define an road surface material dispersal region therebetween. In embodiments, the blocking member is removably installed under the vehicle such that the first side surface of the blocking member engages (e.g. contacts) the screed, for example and the second side surface of the blocking member engages (e.g. contacts) the control plate. The screed may comprise a screed housing. The blocking member may be removably installed under the vehicle such that the first side surface of the blocking member engages (e.g. contacts) the screed housing (e.g. an edge thereof).

In embodiments, the slope of the first and second side surfaces of the blocking member may be configured (e.g. shaped) to cooperate with, respectively, the screed and the control io plate (e.g. an edge of the screed and/or an edge of the control plate).

In embodiments, the first and/or second side surfaces of the blocking member may comprise or may be configured to provide a lead-in portion (e.g. for use during installation of the blocking member under the vehicle).

In embodiments, the blocking member may be removably installed under one side of the vehicle. The blocking member may be shaped and sized (e.g. configured) to at least partially block the road surface material dispersal region on that side of the vehicle.

In embodiments, the vehicle may comprise an end plate or gate extending from the screed. The elongate channel (where provided) of the blocking member may be shaped and/or sized (e.g. configured) to correspond to and/or slidably engage with the end plate, preferably with an edge (e.g. a lower edge) of the end plate. The end plate may extend vertically (e.g. substantially). The end plate may have a lower edge, e.g. adjacent the ground, in use. The elongate recess may be configured to slidably engage the lower edge of the end plate.

In embodiments, the vehicle comprises first and second conveying means (e.g. conveyers).

The first conveying means may be configured or configurable, in use, to convey loose road surface material from a store (e.g. of the vehicle) to a first side of the road surface material dispersal region. The second conveying means may be configured configurable, in use, to convey loose road surface material from the store to a second side of the road surface material dispersal region.

In embodiments, the vehicle may be operated, in use, so that only one of the first and second conveying means is actuated to convey loose road surface material from the store to the road surface material dispersal region. The one of the first and second conveying means which is actuated in use may be the one which is configured to deliver loose road surface material to the side of the road surface material dispersal region at which the blocking member is not installed.

In embodiments, the blocking member may be installed under the vehicle without the use of any fastening means or mechanism (e.g. fasteners).

In embodiments, the vehicle may be a paver or paving machine.

In embodiments, the vehicle may comprise a delivery means or mechanism, e.g. for delivering loose road surface material to the road surface material dispersal region. The delivery means may comprise conveying means (e.g. a conveyor). The conveying means may comprise first and second conveying means (e.g. conveyors). The vehicle may comprise a store, e.g. for storing loose road surface material. The conveying means may be configured to deliver loose road surface material from the store, in use, to the road surface material dispersal region. The first conveying means may be configured to deliver loose road surface material, in use, to a first side of the road surface material dispersal region. The second conveying means may be configured to deliver loose road surface material, in use, to a second side of the road surface material dispersal region. The road surface material dispersal region may define a region of the vehicle in which loose road surface material can be dispersed onto the ground, e.g. prior to being flattened (for example by the screed). The first and second conveying means may be independently operable to convey loose road surface material to the road surface material dispersal region.

The vehicle may comprise dispersal means (e.g. dispersers). The dispersal means may comprise one or more augers. The dispersal means may be configured or configurable to disperse, in use, loose road surface material across the road surface dispersal region.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method of laying a road surface, the method comprising: a) providing a vehicle for laying a road surface with a blocking member removably installed thereunder; b) conveying loose road surface material to only one side of a road surface material dispersal region of the vehicle; c) blocking, using the blocking member, loose road surface material from contacting the ground under the vehicle at the other side of the road surface material dispersal region to the side at which the loose road surface material is conveyed.

The method may comprise a step d) of dispersing the delivered loose road surface material in the road surface material dispersal region (for example using a dispersal means, say of io the vehicle. Step d) may occur subsequent to step b) and c).

The method may comprise a step e) of flattening the dispersed loose road surface material (e.g. using a screed of the vehicle).

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method of installing a blocking member under a vehicle for laying road surfaces, the method comprising: a) providing a vehicle for laying a road surface, where the vehicle comprises a screed with an end plate extending therefrom, e.g. in a vertical direction; b) providing a blocking member comprising an elongate channel; c) raising the screed with the end plate extending therefrom relative to the ground under the vehicle; d) positioning the blocking member under the vehicle such that the elongate channel is aligned with the end plate; and e) lowering the screed with the end plate thereon such that the end plate is slidably received in the channel of the blocking member.

In embodiments, the blocking member may have first and second opposed side surfaces and the vehicle may have a control plate thereunder. Step c) may comprise raising the screed and the control plate. Step e) may comprise lowering the screed and the control plate, for example such that the screed contacts the first side surface of the blocking member and the control plate contacts the second side surface of the blocking member.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a cut-off shoe according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a reverse view of the cut-off shoe shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a partial side view of the cut-off shoe shown in Figure 1 installed under a paving machine; Figure 4 shows a partial perspective view of the cut-off show shown in Figure 1 io installed under a paving machine; Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of a method of installing a cut-off show under a paving machine; Figure 6 shows a flow diagram of a method of laying a road surface using a paving machine with a cut-off shoe installed thereunder; and Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a cut-off shoe according to a further embodiment of the invention.

Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown an embodiment of a cut-off shoe 1 for installation under a paver. The cut-off shoe 1 is rectangular in plan, in this embodiment. The cut-off shoe 1 comprises a flat ground engaging surface 10 and a blocking surface 11 obverse to the ground engaging surface 10. The cut-off shoe 1 comprises first and second opposed sides 12, 13. The first and second sides 12, 13 slope inwardly from the ground engaging surface 10 toward the blocking surface 11. The cut-off shoe 1 comprises first and second opposed ends 14, 15. The opposed ends 14, 15 are parallel in this embodiment.

The cut-off shoe 1 comprises a recess or channel 16. The channel 16 extends across the cut-off shoe 1 from the first side 12 to the second side 13, thereof. The channel 16 is located adjacent one of the ends 14, 15 of the cut-off shoe 1. The channel 16 extends in a direction which is perpendicular to the first and second sides 12, 13.

The cut-off shoe 1 is formed from a base plate B and a frame F, in this embodiment. A first major surface of the base plate B provides the ground engaging surface 10. The frame F is attached to the second major surface of the base plate B. Frame F is formed of six box-section tubes. Four of the box-section tubes are connected in a rectangular shape, with a central rib 17 intersecting the rectangle across the shorter dimension. A further box-section tube Fl is located parallel to one end of the rectangular shape and spaced therefrom. The channel 16 is defined between the further box-section tube Fl and the end of the rectangular shape. The channel 16 is unobstructed along its length. The base of the channel 16 is defined by the second major surface of the base plate B. The frame F acts to stiffen the base plate B. The longer sides of the rectangular shape of the frame F are parallel to and inboard of the edges of the base plate B. the ends of the further box-section are inboard of the edges of the base plate B. A chamfer plate C is provided at each of the first and second sides 12, 13 of the cut-off io shoe 1. The chamfer plates C are attached to the edge of the base plate B and to the side of the frame F. The chamfer plates C are angled relative to the base plate B such that they provide the sloped surfaces of the first and second sides 12, 13. The chamfer plates C extend along the entire length of the longer sides of the rectangular shaped portion of the frame F. One longer edge of each chamfer plate C is attached to a respective edge of the base plate 2. The other longer edge of each chamfer plate C is attached to the respective outward facing, top corner of the longer edges of the rectangular shaped portion of the frame F. Additional chamfer plates C are attached to the ends of the further box-section tube Fl of the frame, to thereby provide a further slope at the first and second sides 12, 13 of the cut-off shoe 1.

In this embodiment, the frame F is attached to the base plate B by welding. The chamfer plates C are secured to the frame F and base plate B by welding. The cut-off shoe 1 is formed from light-weight steel, in this embodiment (for example the frame F, the base plate B and/or the chamfer plates C are formed from light-weight steel).

The first and second sides 12, 13 of the cut-off shoe 1 slope inwardly at an angle of about 45 degrees relative to the flat ground engaging surface 10, in this embodiment.

This embodiment of the cut-off shoe 1 has a thickness of approximately 70 mm. The length of the cut-off shoe 1 may be about 1500 mm, 1000 mm or 750 mm, in embodiments. The width of the cut-off shoe 1 (e.g. from the first to the second side 12, 13) may be about 750 mm in this embodiment. However, other sizes are envisaged.

Due to the lightweight design the cut-off shoe 1 can be easily carried and positioned by a single worker. For example, a 1000 mm by 750 mm cut-off shoe 1 has a mass of approximately 12 kg.

Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, there is shown part of a paving machine 2 (also known as a paver) with a cut-off shoe 1 installed thereunder.

The paver 2 comprises a screed 3 and a tractor unit 4. The screed 3 is attached at the rear of the tractor unit 4, behind the rear wheels 5 thereof.

The screed 3 has housing 30 containing a screed head (not shown). Extendable arms 31 extend from either side of the housing 30 for varying the width of the screed head, in use. The extendable arms 31 have end plates (e.g. end gates) 32 extending from their ends. The end plates 32 extend vertically. The end plates 32 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the primary axis of the screed head (e.g. perpendicular to a direction across the width of the vehicle). The end plates 32 comprise a lower edge 32a which is adjacent the ground. The housing 30 comprises a rear surface 30a and a bottom surface 30b. The edge 30c of the housing 30 between the bottom surface 30b and the rear surface 30a is sloped.

In Figures 3 and 4 the extendable arm 31 is shown in an extended condition. However, the extendable arms 31 may be either extended or retracted (for example, at any desired location between fully extended or retracted). In this way the relative width of the screed 3 may be altered from a minimum width (in which the extendable arms 31 are in a fully retracted condition) and a maximum width (in which the extendable arms 31 are in a fully extended condition).

The tractor unit 4 comprises a control plate (not shown). The control plate extends between the rear wheels 5 in a direction substantially parallel to and adjacent the ground under the paver. The housing 65 of the screed 3 and the control plate at least partially define a loose road surface material dispersal area, therebetween, to which loose road surface material is delivered in use. The control plate is configured to restrict or prevent movement of loose road surface material from the dispersal area to under the paving machine 2 in a direction toward the store thereof. The end plates 32 of the screed 3 define the lateral extent of the dispersal area (for example the width of the dispersal area). Extending or retracting the extendable arms 31 results in relative increase or reduction of the width of the dispersal area. The control plate comprises a sloped edge, adjacent the dispersal area. The angle of the slope is similar to that of the sloped edge 30c of the housing 30.

The paving machine 2 has two augers 6 located in the dispersal area. A first auger 6 is positioned on a first side of the paving machine 2. A second auger (not shown) is positioned on the second side of the paving machine 2. Compactors (not shown) are provided in the dispersal area across the width of the housing 30. The compactors may be of a vibratory or tamper type.

The tractor unit 4 comprises a hopper (not shown) which provides a store for loose road surface material. The tractor unit comprises first and second conveyors (not shown). The first conveyor is configured to deliver loose road surface material from the hopper to (or adjacent to) a first side of the dispersal area, in use. The second conveyor is configured to deliver loose road surface material from the hopper to (or adjacent to) the second (e.g. other) side of the dispersal area, in use. The tractor unit 4 comprises a controller (not shown) for controlling the functions of the paving machine 2, in use. The controller is operatively connected to the augers 6 and the conveyors. The controller is configured to independently control actuation of one, some or each of the augers 6 and conveyors.

A cut-off shoe 1 is installed under (e.g. fitted to) the paving machine 2 at one side thereof. The ground engaging surface 10 of the cut-off shoe 1 (e.g. the ground engaging surface 10 thereof) contacts and rides over the ground, in use. The channel 16 is sized and shaped to substantially correspond to the size and shape of the bottom edge 32a of the side plate 32.

The bottom edge 32a of the side plate 32 is slidably received within the channel 16. The sloped first side 12 of the cut-off shoe 1 contacts the sloped edge 30c of the housing 30 of the screed 3. The angle of the first side 12 of the cut-off shoe 1 corresponds to the angle of the sloped edge 30c of the housing 30. The sloped second side 13 of the cut-off shoe 1 contacts the control plate (not shown) under the paving machine 2. The angle of the second side 13 corresponds to the angle of the sloped edge of the control plate.

Referring now to Figure 5 there is shown a method 100 of installing the cut-off shoe 1 under the paving machine 2.

In a first step S1, a paving machine 2 and a cut-off shoe 1 are provided.

In a second step S2, the screed 3 and the control plate are moved into a raised position relative to the ground (and the wheels 5 of the paving machine 2), e.g. the screed 3 and the control plate are raised. This raising is achieved using integrated raising and lowering mechanisms of the paving machine 2 which will not be described further herein. The screed 3 and the control plate are raised to a height above the ground greater than the thickness of the cut-off shoe 1. The raising is performed by a worker operating the or a controller of the paving machine 2.

lc) In a third step S3, the cut-off shoe 1 is positioned underneath the paving machine 2 by a worker. The cut-off shoe 1 is slid generally into position. In this position the channel 16 is beneath the bottom edge 32a of the end plate 32, the first side 12 of the cut-off shoe 1 is generally aligned with the sloped edge 30c of the housing 30 of the screed 3, and the second side 13 of the cut-off shoe 1 is generally aligned with the sloped edge of the control plate. Advantageously, the relatively raised frame F of the cut-off shoe 1 provides a convenient hand-hold for a user to carry and/or position the cut-off shoe 1.

In a fourth step S4, the screed 3 and control plate are lowered to an operating height of the paving machine. The bottom edge 32a of the end plate 32 is slidably received in the channel 16 of the cut-off shoe 1. When the screed 3 and control plate have been lowered to the operating height of the paving machine the sloped edge 30c of the housing 30 contacts the sloped first side 12 of the cut-off shoe 1 or the sloped edge of the control plate contacts the sloped second side 13 of the cut-off shoe 1. Due to the cut-off shoe 1 being initially positioned by hand by a worker it is likely that the cut-off shoe 1 will be partially misaligned with the paving machine 2 prior to lowering of the screed 3 and control plate.

Advantageously, the sloped first and second sides 12, 13 of the cut-off shoe 1 act as a lead-in portion for the cut-off shoe during lowering of the paving machine 2 thereonto. As the screed 3 and control plate are lowered the sloped edge 30c of the housing 30 contacts the sloped first side 12 of the cut-off shoe 1 or the sloped edge of the control plate contacts the sloped second side 13 of the cut-off shoe 1. Continued lowering of the screed 3 and control plate onto the cut-off shoe 1 causes the cut-off shoe 1 to be moved into correct alignment relative to the screed 3 and control plate.

In this way, installation of the cut-off shoe 1 is relatively rapid and easy and can be achieved by a single worker. Moreover, installation is relatively safe because no fixing or attachments need be connected between the cut-off shoe 1 and the paving machine 2.

Referring now to Figure 6, there is provided a method 1000 of laying a road surface using the paving machine 2 with a cut-off shoe 1 installed thereunder. The method 1000 is for use with laying a road surface having a width which is less than the minimum width of the paving machine 2.

The paving machine 2 is generally located at or near the start of a road surface to be laid prior to laying the road surface. In a paving operation, the paving machine 2 drives along the route onto which road surface material is laid. The location of the paving machine 2 in the first step S1 is typically the position in which the paving machine 2 begins along this route.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that in the method 1000 all necessary actions to begin paving, which are specific to the paving machine 2 being used, will have already been completed prior to undertaking the first step of the method 100. These actions may include pre-heating any necessary equipment, loading the loose road surface material into the hopper, and/or pre-heating the loose road surface material if necessary.

In a first step S10, a paving machine 2 with a cut-off shoe 1 installed thereunder is provided. Prior to use the cut-off shoe 1 is installed under the paving machine 2, for example as described above. The width of the dispersal area is adjusted prior to use to match the desired width of road surface to be laid. Adjustment of the width of the dispersal area to the desired width may comprise only installation of the cut-off shoe 1 under the paving machine 2. Alternatively, adjustment of the width of the dispersal area to the desired width may comprise both installation of the cut-off shoe under the paving machine 2 and at least partial extension or retraction of the extendable arms 31 of the screed 3. In this way a desired width of the dispersal area exposed to the ground under the paving machine 2 may be provided.

In a second step S20, loose road surface material is delivered from the store of the paving machine 2 to or adjacent the dispersal area. This delivery is achieved by activating only the conveyor on the side of the paving machine 2 to which the cut-off shoe 1 is not installed.

For example, the conveyor on the side of the paving machine 2 to which the cut-off shoe 1 is installed is not activated (and/or is deactivated if it was previously running).

In a third step S30, delivered loose road surface material is dispersed in the dispersal area via activation of the auger 6 on the side of the paving machine 2 to which the cut-off shoe 1 is not installed. The auger 6 on the other side of the paving machine 2 to the side at which the cut-off shoe 1 is installed may not be activated (for example may be deactivated).

In a fourth step S40, dispersed loose road surface material is prevented (e.g. blocked), io using the cut-off shoe 1 from contacting the ground in that portion of the dispersal area blocked by the cut-off shoe 1. The end 14 of the cut-off shoe 1 spaced from the channel 16 defines an outer edge of the width of the dispersal area in which loose road surface material is allowed to contact the ground. Advantageously, this end 14 produces a relatively straighter edge to a laid road than would be the case were the road laid by hand.

In a fifth step S50, the dispersed loose road surface material is flattened by moving the screed 3 thereover. Moving the screed 3 over the dispersed loose road surface material comprises moving the paving machine 2. The paving machine 2 is moved (e.g. by a prime mover of the paving machine 2) in a forward direction, e.g. such that the screed 3 moves over the dispersed loose road surface material. In embodiments, moving of the paving machine 2 in the forward direction may occur prior to any of the other steps of the method 1000. The direction of the paving machine 2 is controlled (e.g. by an operator of the paving machine 2) to follow a path which will result in the desired form or shape of road surface to be laid.

Excess loose road surface material (e.g. not dispersed into contact with the ground) is collected and retained on the blocking surface 11 of the cut-off shoe 1. Advantageously, the cut-off shoe 1 is configured to at least temporarily retain and/or store excess loose road surface material (e.g. spill-off road surface material). The blocking surface 11 comprise two retention recesses, in this embodiment. The retention recesses are defined by the frame F of the cut-off shoe 1 and the base plate B. In embodiments, there may be more than two retention recesses or fewer than two retention recesses.

When the length of a desired road surface has been reached forward motion of the paving machine 2 may be stopped. Additionally or alternatively, delivery of loose road surface material from the store to or adjacent the dispersal area may be stopped (e.g. the conveyor may be deactivated). As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the store of the paving machine 2 may be refilled during use, for example from a further vehicle having loose road surface material therein. Such refilling may be intermittent or continuous during use of the paving machine 2 to lay a road surface. Alternatively, the store of the paving machine 2 may be refilled after use for laying a road surface. After laying of the desired road surface excess loose road surface material is removed from the blocking surface 11 of the cut-off shoe 1. Advantageously, this excess loose road surface material may be reused. For example, the excess loose road surface material may be fed back into the store of the io paving machine. 2 During use, the cut-off shoe 1 is moved by the paving machine 2 across the ground. Forward motion of the paving machine 2 results in the cut-off shoe 1 being pushed forward via force transferred from the sloped edge 30c of the screed 3 to the first side 12 of the cut-off shoe 1. The sloped edge of the control plate contacts the second side 13 of the cut-off shoe and thereby prevents the cut-off shoe from being pushed out of the dispersal area. In this way, the cut-off shoe 1 is retained longitudinally relative to the paving machine 2 via contact between the first and second sides 12, 13 of the cut-off shoe 1 and, respectively, the sloped edge 30c of the screed 3 and the sloped edge of the control plate. Slidable receipt of the bottom edge 32a of the end plate 32 by the channel 16 of the cut-off shoe 1 retains the cut-off shoe 1 transversely relative to the paving machine 2 (e.g. across the width of the dispersal area). Additionally, relative rotation of the cut-off shoe 1 and the paving machine 2 is prevented by the above-described contact points between the cut-off shoe 1 and the paving machine 2.

Advantageously, the cut-off shoe 1 is installable (e.g. attachable and detachable) under the paving machine 2 without the need for any alterations to the paving machine 2 (e.g. to any of the component parts thereof). For example, the screed 3, the control plate, etc. of the paving machine 2 are not altered in any way to accommodate the cut-off shoe 1.

Additionally, no fixtures or fittings are used to secure or install the cut-off shoe 1 under the paving machine 2. This means that the cut-off shoe 1 can be rapidly installed and removed from the paving machine 2. Furthermore, due to the ease and low material cost of manufacture of the cut-off shoe 1, as described previously, the cut-off shoe may be relatively rapidly and easily manufactured to fit the dimensions of a specific paving machine 2 (and/or of a desired width of road surface to be laid). For example, the width of the channel may be easily and rapidly manufactured to receive the size and shape of the bottom edge 32a of the end plate 32. Due to the low mass, the cut-off shoe 1 is also installable (e.g. attachable and detachable) under the paving machine 2 with ease, e.g. by a single user. The design of the cut-off shoe 1 is such that it can be installed under (e.g. attached) at either side of the paving machine 2. Further beneficially, the frame F of the cut-off shoe 1 provides increased stiffness to the cut-off shoe 1.

Referring now to Figure 7, there is shown a cut-off shoe 101 according to a further embodiment of the invention. The cut-off shoe 101 shown in Figure 7 is similar to that shown io in Figures 1 and 2, with like features denoted by like references preceded by a '10'. The cut-off shoe 101 shown in Figure 7 differs from that shown in Figures 1 and 2 in that the cut-off shoe 101 comprises handles 118. There are two handles 118 in this embodiment. However, in embodiments there may be more or less than two handles 118. The handles 118 are welded to the frame F in this embodiment. However, in embodiments the handles 118 may be secured to the cut-off shoe 101 using any suitable means, for example one or more fixings such as nuts and bolts. Advantageously, the handles 118 enable the cut-off shoe 101 to be more easily transported by a single worker. Additionally, the handles 118 enable the cut-off shoe 118 to be more readily and accurately positioned under a paving machine 2 by a single worker. Yet further, the handles 118 enable the cut-off shoe 118 to be more easily removed from under a paving machine 2. The cut-off shoe 118 may then be removed in a horizontal orientation such that loose road surface material is retained on the blocking surface 111. Beneficially, this loose road surface material may then be reused.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the cut-off shoe 1 may be manufactured from other materials, such as aluminium, polymers or composite materials. Additionally or alternatively, the components of the cutoff shoe 1 may be assembled via other means such as adhesives or fasteners. Additionally or alternatively, the cut-off shoe 1 may be formed other than by use of a frame F and a base plate B. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims

CLAIMSA blocking member for installation under a vehicle for laying road surfaces, the blocking member comprising: a substantially flat ground engaging surface; a blocking surface obverse to the ground engaging surface; and first and second opposed side surfaces which each slope inwardly in a direction from the ground engaging surface towards the blocking surface; where the blocking member is configured to at least partially block the road surface material dispersal region of a vehicle for laying roads, when the blocking member has been installed under said vehicle.
2. Blocking member according to Claim 1, wherein the first and/or second opposed side surfaces slope at an angle of between 15 and 75 degrees relative to the ground engaging surface, for example between 15, 20, 25, 30 or 35 and 50, 55, 60, 65 and 70 degrees relative to the ground engaging surface, say at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the ground engaging surface.
Blocking member according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the blocking member comprises an elongate channel extending into the blocking surface and extending between the first and second opposed side surfaces.
Blocking member according to any preceding Claim 3, wherein the inside of the elongate channel is free of restrictions and/or projections.
5. Blocking member according to Claim 3 or 4, wherein the elongate channel extends in a direction adjacent to an end of the blocking member.
Blocking member according to Claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein the elongate channel extends in a direction perpendicular to the first and/or the second side surface of the blocking member.
Blocking member according to any preceding Claim, wherein the blocking member comprises a strengthening member extending thereacross, for example between the first and second side surfaces.
Blocking member according to Claim 7, wherein the strengthening member extends from the first to the second opposed side surface of the blocking member.
9. Blocking member according to any preceding Claim, wherein the blocking member has the shape of a parallelogram, in plan.
10. Blocking member according to any preceding Claim, wherein the blocking member comprises one or more handles.
11. Blocking member according to any preceding Claim, wherein the blocking member comprises a plate with a frame secured thereto.
12. Blocking member according to Claim 11, wherein the slope of the first and second opposed side surfaces is provided by edge plates secured to the plate and the frame.
13. A vehicle for laying road surfaces with a blocking member according to any preceding Claim removably installed under the vehicle.
14. Vehicle according to Claim 13, wherein the vehicle comprises a screed and a control plate, where the control plate is located under the vehicle, the screed and the control plate being spaced from one another to thereby at least partially define an road surface material dispersal region therebetween; where the blocking member is removably installed under the vehicle such that the first side surface of the blocking member engages the screed and the second side surface of the blocking member engages the control plate.
15. Vehicle according to Claim 14, wherein the slope of the first and second side surfaces of the blocking member is configured to cooperate with, respectively, the screed and the control plate.
16. Vehicle according to Claim 14 or 15, wherein the blocking member is removably installed under one side of the vehicle and the blocking member is shaped and sized to at least partially block the road surface material dispersal region on that side of the vehicle.
17. Vehicle according to Claim 14, 15 or 16 when dependent on Claim 3, wherein the vehicle comprises an end plate extending from the screed, and the elongate channel of the blocking member is shaped and/or sized to correspond to and slidably engage with the end plate.
18. Vehicle according to any of Claims 14 to 17, wherein the vehicle comprises first and second conveying means, where the first conveying means is configured or configurable, in use, to convey loose road surface material from a store to a first side of the road surface material dispersal region, and where the second conveying means io is configured configurable, in use, to convey loose road surface material from the store to a second side of the road surface material dispersal region.
19. Vehicle according to Claim 18, wherein the vehicle is operated, in use, so that only one of the first and second conveying means is actuated to convey loose road surface material from the store to the road surface material dispersal region.
20. Vehicle according to Claim 19, wherein the one of the first and second conveying means which is actuated in use is the one which is configured to deliver loose road surface material to the side of the road surface material dispersal region at which the blocking member is not installed.
21. Vehicle according to any of Claims 13 to 20, wherein the blocking member is installed under the vehicle without the use of any fastening means.
22. Vehicle according to any of Claims 13 to 21, wherein the vehicle is a paver or paving machine.
23. A method of laying a road surface, the method comprising: a) providing a vehicle for laying a road surface with a blocking member removably installed thereunder; b) conveying loose road surface material to only one side of a road surface material dispersal region of the vehicle; c) blocking, using the blocking member, loose road surface material from contacting the ground under the vehicle at the other side of the road surface material dispersal region to the side at which the loose road surface material is conveyed.
24. A method of installing a blocking member under a vehicle for laying road surfaces, the method comprising: a) providing a vehicle for laying a road surface, where the vehicle comprises a screed with an end plate extending therefrom, e.g. in a vertical direction; b) providing a blocking member comprising an elongate channel; c) raising the screed with the end plate extending therefrom relative to the ground under the vehicle; d) positioning the blocking member under the vehicle such that the elongate channel is aligned with the end plate; and e) lowering the screed with the end plate thereon such that the end plate is slidably received in the channel of the blocking member.
25. Method according to Claim 24, wherein the blocking member has first and second opposed side surfaces and the vehicle has a control plate thereunder, wherein step c) comprises raising the screed and the control plate, and step e) comprises lowering the screed and the control plate such that the screed contacts the first side surface of the blocking member and the control plate contacts the second side surface of the blocking member.