FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present specification relates to systems for pumping concrete mixtures, and in particular to systems for pumping concrete mixtures for use in shotcrete.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In the shotcrete method, a concrete mixture can be propelled or sprayed onto a substrate. When the substrate has a complex or curved shape, or is in an upright or overhanding orientation, shotcrete may be among the most effective techniques for applying concrete to the substrate.

[0003] Shotcrete has both wet and dry varieties. In the wet version, the dry components of the concrete are first mixed with water and any other necessary liquid additives, and the mixture is then pumped through a hose to a nozzle where compressed air is injected into the nozzle to propel the wet concrete mixture onto the target substrate. In the dry version, the dry, particulate components of the concrete are pneumatically pumped or conveyed through a hose to a nozzle where water is injected into the dry mixture before the it is propelled towards and lands on the substrate.

[0004] As such, shotcrete, and in particular wet mixture shotcrete, requires a stream of wet concrete mixture, a stream of compressed air, and a nozzle to merge the two streams in order to propel the concrete mixture onto the substrate. In addition, in some applications streams of other additives may be needed when those additives are to be added to the concrete mixture at the nozzle.

[0005] In practice, wet mixture shotcrete uses several separate, large machines: for example, a single- outlet wet concrete mixture pump can be used, which pump has a dedicated engine and can be connected to separate fuel and/or water reservoirs. In addition, an air compressor is required, which is a separate machine with a separate, dedicated engine, and also needs a fuel reservoir. Often heating or air- conditioning units are also needed to keep the air compressor at optimal operating temperatures in very cold or very warm climates.

[0006] Moreover, if pre-mixed wet concrete mixtures are to be used, concrete trucks are needed to bring the concrete mixture to the pump. If, on the other hand, bagged, dry ingredients are used as the starting materials, then a separate mixer is needed to combine the dry ingredients with water to prepare the wet concrete mixture for pumping. Furthermore, additional separate pumps may be needed for adding additives to the concrete mixture at the nozzle. Additional electrical generators and/or air compressors may also be needed in the work site in order to power electrical and pneumatic tools and lights for illuminating the work site.

[0007] Given the number of separate machines required at a shotcrete work site, a large amount of space is required to receive and/or house all of the separate machines at the site. However, as shotcrete is often performed in confined spaces such as mine shafts, tunnels, or congested urban constructions sites, finding sufficient space for all the separate machines can pose a challenge.

[0008] In addition, shotcrete, and in particular wet mixture shotcrete, can be very sensitive to parameters associated with the mixing and application of the concrete. For example, as soon as the dry concrete ingredients are mixed with water, the mixture begins the hardening process thereby limiting the optimal time window for applying the concrete mixture to the substrate. When large volumes of concrete are to be applied to the substrate to form a large unitary structure, one single-outlet concrete pump may not be sufficient to produce a high enough flow rate so that the entire volume of the concrete mixture can be applied quickly enough to allow the concrete mixture to harden together to form a unitary structure. Using multiple single-outlet concrete pumps to address this challenge would require more space in the potentially confined/congested work sites and would impose additional costs for obtaining and operating the additional pumps. Moreover, using multiple single-outlet concrete pumps would increase the number of independent mechanical components, thereby increasing the probability of mechanical failures which would delay or halt the spraying/shooting of concrete thereby jeopardizing the uniformity and the unitary integrity of the concrete structure.

[0009] Furthermore, the mechanical properties of concrete applied through the shotcrete method depend on the speed and uniformity of the concrete spray, which in turn can determine the compaction force and uniformity of the applied concrete mixture. Compaction, in turn, can determine mechanical properties of the hardened concrete such as its hardness and/or compressive strength. Speed and uniformity of the concrete spray are determined by both the pressure and constancy of the stream of compressed air, and by the design of the nozzle used to inject the compressed air into the concrete mixture.

[0010] Using a separate air compressor, or connecting to a shared compressed air line as is common in large and/or confined work sites, can introduce variability and lack of reliability in the supply of compressed air. For example, if another user connects to the compressed air line upstream of the shotcrete work site, the air pressure at the shotcrete work site will drop which will affect the speed of spraying and therefore the compaction and the mechanical properties of the sprayed concrete. Such a variability can cause the sprayed concrete to deviate from the required specification, which would necessitate large areas of already applied concrete to be removed and then reapplied while keeping constant the air pressure and the spray speed and uniformity. Moreover, shotcrete nozzle designs that produce weak or non-uniform sprays can similarly compromise the uniformity or the integrity of the sprayed concrete.

SUMMARY OF THE I VENTION

[0011] In this specification, elements may be described as "configured to" perform one or more functions or "configured for" such functions. In general, an element that is configured to perform or configured for performing a function is enabled to perform the function, or is suitable for performing the function, or is adapted to perform the function, or is operable to perform the function, or is otherwise capable of performing the function.

[0012] It is understood that for the purpose of this specification, language of "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "one or more of X, Y and Z" can be construed as X only, Y only, Z only, or any combination of two or more items X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XY, YZ, ZZ, and the like). Similar logic can be applied for two or more items in any occurrence of "at least one ..." and "one or more..." language.

[0013] An aspect of the present specification provides a system for pumping a concrete mixture, the system comprising: a base and a hopper secured to the base, the hopper configured to receive the concrete mixture to be pumped. The hopper comprises: an inlet opening configured for receiving the concrete mixture into the hopper; and a first outlet opening, a second outlet opening, a third outlet opening, a fourth outlet opening, a fifth outlet opening, and a sixth outlet opening. The system further comprises: a first connector tube mounted moveably to the hopper, the first connector tube moveable between a first position whereby the first connector tube connects the first outlet opening to the fifth outlet opening and a second position whereby the first connector tube connects the second outlet opening to the fifth outlet opening; and a second connector tube mounted moveably to the hopper, the second connector tube moveable between a respective first position whereby the second connector tube connects the third outlet opening to the sixth outlet opening and a respective second position whereby the second connector tube connects the fourth outlet opening to the sixth outlet opening. The system further comprises, for each of the first outlet opening, the second outlet opening, the third outlet opening, and the fourth outlet opening: a respective pumping tube secured to the base and in fluid communication with the hopper via the respective outlet opening, the respective pumping tube configured to receive the concrete mixture from the hopper; a respective piston slideably received in the respective pumping tube, the respective piston configured to displace the concrete mixture receivable inside the respective pumping tube by moving between a respective retracted position whereby a respective first volume of the concrete mixture is receivable inside the respective pumping tube and a respective extended position whereby a respective second volume of the concrete mixture is receivable inside the respective pumping tube, the respective first volume larger than the respective second volume; a respective actuator coupled to the respective piston, the respective actuator configured to actuate the respective piston between the respective retracted position and the respective extended position; and a respective sensor configured to sense when the respective piston is at the respective retracted position.

[0014] The system can further comprise a conveyance apparatus secured to the base, the conveyance apparatus comprising one of: a towable trailer comprising wheels; a towable trailer comprising tracks; and a self-propelled transport vehicle.

[0015] The base can be rotatable relative to the conveyance apparatus.

[0016] The system can further comprise a housing secured to the base, the housing comprising at least one temperature-controlled compartment.

[0017] The system can further comprise an air compressor secured to the base, the air compressor positioned inside the temperature-controlled compartment. [0018] The system can further comprise a hydraulic pump secured to the base, and wherein the respective actuators comprise hydraulic actuators in fluid communication with the hydraulic pump.

[0019] The system can further comprise an actuation source secured to the base, the actuation source configured to power one or more of the air compressor and the hydraulic pump.

[0020] The actuation source can comprise one or more of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.

[0021] The system can further comprise an electrical generator secured to the base, the electrical generator powered by a further actuation source secured to the base.

[0022] The system can further comprise a control module configured to one or more of monitor and control one or more of the actuation source, the hydraulic pump, and the air compressor, the control module comprising a communication interface configured for communicating with a remote terminal.

[0023] The system can further comprise one or more peristaltic pumps secured to the base, at least one of the one or more peristaltic pumps configured to pump additives to be added to the concrete mixture.

[0024] The system can further comprise a high pressure pump secured to the base, the high pressure pump configured to pump water for cleaning residues of the concrete mixture from the hopper.

[0025] The hopper can further comprise a temperature control module configured to control the temperature of the concrete mixture receivable inside the hopper.

[0026] The temperature control module can comprise one or more fluid conduits disposed one or more of: on an outer surface of the hopper; and inside one or more walls of the hopper; the fluid conduits configured to receive one or more of a cooling fluid and a heating fluid. [0027] The hopper can further comprise a mechanical vibrator configured to vibrate the hopper and the concrete mixture receivable in the hopper.

[0028] The hopper can comprise a hopper camera pointed towards the inlet opening, the hopper camera configured for monitoring operation of the hopper.

[0029] The system can further comprise a mixer secured to the base, the mixer configured for mixing ingredients for being added to the hopper, the mixer movable between a mixing position whereby the ingredients are retained in the mixer under gravity and a transfer position whereby the ingredients fall out of the mixer and into the hopper under gravity.

[0030] The system can further comprise four self-leveling outriggers secured to the base, two of the self-leveling outriggers extendible from a first side of the base, and the remaining two of the self-leveling outriggers extendible from a second side of the base, the second side opposite the first side.

[0031] The system can further comprise: a housing secured to the base; and one or more monitoring cameras disposed on extendible posts secured to one or more of the base and the housing.

[0032] The system can further comprise a corresponding light source disposed on one or more of the extendible posts, the corresponding light sources configured to illuminate one or more of the system and a work site surrounding the system.

[0033] The first connector tube and the second connector tube can be configured to move synchronously but in opposite directions between the respective first positions and the respective second positions of the first connector tube and the second connector tube.

[0034] The hopper can further comprise a divider configured to divide the hopper into a first portion comprising the first outlet opening, the second outlet opening, and the fifth outlet opening and a second portion comprising the third outlet opening, the fourth outlet opening, and the sixth outlet opening.

[0035] The divider can be removable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Some implementations of the present specification will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

[0037] Fig. 1 shows a top perspective view of a system for pumping a concrete mixture, according to non-limiting implementations. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0038] Fig. 2 shows another top perspective view of the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0039] Fig. 3 shows a right side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0040] Fig. 4 shows a left side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0041] Fig. 5 shows a front side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0042] Fig. 6 shows a rear side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0043] Fig. 7 shows a top plan view of the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0044] Fig. 8 shows a partial top plan view of the system shown in Fig. 1, where the housing of the system and the components therein are omitted or depicted as transparent to reveal the components of the system that would otherwise be obscured by the housing.

[0045] Fig. 9 shows a partial top plan view of the system shown in Fig. 1, where the housing of the system and the components therein are omitted or depicted as transparent to reveal the components of the system that would otherwise be obscured by the housing.

[0046] Fig. 10 shows a top perspective view of the hopper of the system shown in Fig. 1, according to non-limiting implementations. [0047] Fig. 11 shows a left side elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 10.

[0048] Fig. 12 shows a front side elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 10.

[0049] Fig. 13 shows a right side elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 10.

[0050] Fig. 14 shows a rear side elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 10.

[0051] Fig. 15 shows a top plan view of the hopper shown in Fig. 10.

[0052] Fig. 16 shows a bottom plan view of the hopper shown in Fig. 10.

[0053] Fig. 17 shows a front side elevation view of the hopper of the system shown in Fig. 1, depicting additional components of the system attached to the hopper.

[0054] Fig. 18 shows a rear side elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 17.

[0055] Fig. 19 shows a right side elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 17.

[0056] Fig. 20 shows a top plan view of the hopper shown in Fig. 17.

[0057] Fig. 21 shows a sectioned front elevation view of the hopper shown in Fig. 17, sectioned along line I-I shown in Fig. 17.

[0058] Fig. 22 shows a partial right side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 1, where some of the components are omitted and the hopper is sectioned to reveal a selection of the components inside the hopper. [0059] Fig. 23 shows a top perspective view of another system for pumping a concrete mixture, according to non-limiting implementations. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0060] Fig. 24 shows a right side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 23.

[0061] Fig. 25 shows a top perspective view of another system for pumping a concrete mixture, according to non-limiting implementations. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the open position.

[0062] Fig. 26 shows a top perspective view of the system shown in Fig. 25. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0063] Fig. 27 shows another top perspective view of the system shown in Fig. 25.

[0064] Fig. 28 shows another top perspective view of the system shown in Fig. 25. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0065] Fig. 29 shows a left side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25.

[0066] Fig. 30 shows a left side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0067] Fig. 31 shows a right side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25.

[0068] Fig. 32 shows a right side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0069] Fig. 33 shows a top plan view of the system shown in Fig. 25. [0070] Fig. 34 shows a top plan view of the system shown in Fig. 25. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0071] Fig. 35 shows a front side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25.

[0072] Fig. 36 shows a front side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25. The doors of the housing of the system are shown in the closed position.

[0073] Fig. 37 shows a rear side elevation view of the system shown in Fig. 25.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0074] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a system 100 for pumping a concrete mixture. System 100 comprises a base 102, and a hopper 104 and a housing 120, both secured to base 102. Base 102 can comprise, but is not limited to, a chassis comprising a plurality of metallic members bolted, welded, and/or otherwise fastened or secured together. Hopper 104 is configured to receive a wet concrete mixture and/or any other materials to be pumped by system 100. Hopper 104 comprises two outlet connectors 106,108 each configured for connecting to a hose for pumping the wet concrete mixture from system 100 towards a shotcrete nozzle (hose and nozzle not shown in Fig. 1).

[0075] Hopper 104 can comprise a back shield 110 extending from a (back) wall of hopper 104 proximate housing 120. Back shield 110 can be configured to form a barrier to protect housing 120 from the concrete mixture being transferred into hopper 104 from a mixer or from a concrete truck. Back shield 110 can comprise one or more side extensions extending from and/or secured to one or more corresponding side walls of hopper 104. In addition, back shield 110 can further comprise a top extension. Back shield 110 can comprises a flat, curved, or bent sheet of a suitable material including, but not limited to, metal, rubber, or plastic. Back shield 110 can be secured to hopper 104 using bolts, welding, or any other suitable fastening methods. While Fig. depicts back shield 110 secured to hopper 104, it is contemplated that in some implementation system 100 may have no back shield. [0076] In order to allow for the monitoring of hopper 104 and/or the level of concrete mixture in hopper 104, system 100 can comprise a hopper camera 112, which can be disposed on back shield 110 and pointed towards the top opening, a.k.a. the inlet opening, of hopper 104. Hopper camera 112 can be used to remotely monito operation of the hopper, i.e. the transfer of the concrete mixture into hopper 104, the level of concrete mixture remaining in hopper 104, and the operation of the mechanical components disposed inside hopper 104. While in Fig. 1 hopper camera 112 is shown as being disposed on back shield 110, it is contemplated that in other implementations hopper camera 112 can be secured directly or indirectly to any other part of system 100 including, but not limited to, housing 120, base 102, and hopper 104.

[0077] Moreover, hopper 104 can comprise grill 114 covering the inlet opening of hopper 104. Grill 114 can comprise a plurality of elongated adjacent members defining between each pair of adjacent members an elongated opening configured to allow the passage of the concrete mixture into hopper 104. Grill 114 can comprise two separate portions, cooperating to cover the inlet opening of hopper 104. Each portion of grill 114 can have an open state where the portion of grill 114 does not cover (a portion) of the inlet opening of hopper 104 and a closed state where the portion of grill 114 covers (a portion) of the inlet opening of hopper 104. Fig. 1 shows one portion of grill 114 in the open state and the other portion of grill 114 in the closed state. The elongated openings defined by grill 114 can prevent the passage of any large solid objects into hopper 104, which objects could clog or damage the components of system 100. It is contemplated that in some implementations hopper 104 can be used and/or operated without the use of grill 114.

[0078] Hopper 104 can further comprise agitator 116 disposed inside hopper 104 and movably coupled to hopper 104. Movement of agitator 116 can physically stir and/or mix the concrete mixture receivable inside hopper 104 to keep the concrete mixture well-mixed and prevent it from solidifying prematurely. In addition, hopper 104 can comprise one or more fluid conduits (e.g. pipes 118) disposed on the outer surface of hopper 104. These fluid conduits can form a part of a temperature control module, and can be configured to receive one or more of a heating fluid and a cooling fluid. As such, the fluid conduits can be used to control the temperature of hopper 104 and any concrete mixture received therein. [0079] In some implementations, not shown, it is contemplated that the fluid conduits can also be built into and/or inside the walls of hopper 104, which can protect the fluid conduits from damage by other machinery or by the concrete mixture itself. In addition, such built-in fluid conduits can allow the walls of hopper 104 to have fewer surface features (e.g. projections, tubes, etc.) which can in turn make the walls of hopper 104 easier to clean after user.

[0080] Turning now to housing 120, it can comprise air inlets 122 configured to allow passage of air into housing 120 for the use of various components such as an actuation source (e.g. engine) and an air compressor (engine and compressor not visible in Fig. 1, but shown in e.g. Fig. 25). As shown in Fig. 1, housing 120 can have four inlets in the top wall of housing 120. Two of air inlets 122 can be used for the engine and the remaining two air inlets 122 for the air compressor. Housing 120 can further comprise an exhaust outlet 124 for venting the exhaust gases of the engine out of housing 120. Exhaust outlet 124 can comprise a scrubber and/or catalytic converter to decompose, absorb, sequester, and/or otherwise reduce some or all of the noxious gases emanating out of exhaust outlet 124. Exhaust outlet 124 can also comprise a muffler. Exhaust outlet 124 can be selected to have the necessary catalytic converters and/or scrubbers to comply with relevant local regulations thereby allowing system 100 to be used in confined spaces and/or underground mines.

[0081] While the systems for pumping a concrete mixture described herein, such as system 100, are shown as comprising a housing, it is contemplated that in some implementations, the system can comprise no housing or only a partial housing, in which implementations some of all of the components shown in the figures as being housed inside the housing can be instead outside of a housing and/or not inside a housing.

[0082] Housing 120 can further comprise openings 126,128 for allowing passage of air and other gases into and out of housing 120. Openings 126 can be in the top wall of housing 120 while openings 128 can be in a side wall. While Fig. 1 shows openings 126,128 as a rectangular grid of approximately square openings, such openings in housing 120 can have other suitable shapes, sizes, placements, and/or arrangements. In some implementations, one or more of openings 126 and 128 can comprise and/or be covered by adjustable louvers to allow for adjusting openings 126,128 from fully open, to partially open, and to substantially or fully closed. Adjusting openings 126,128 can be used to control the temperature inside housing 120.

[0083] Moreover, housing 120 can comprise a number of access doors 130 and 136a,b which can be hingedly coupled to other portions of housing 120 and can provide access to the components inside housing 120. Access door 130 can comprise a single door panel, which door panel can comprise a filter opening 132 to allow access to filters 134 for hydraulic fluid even when door 130 is closed. Filter opening 132 can allow access to filters 134 without the need to open door 130 and potentially disrupt the temperature-controlled space inside housing 120.

[0084] Housing 120 can further comprise doors 136a,b, each hingedly coupled to a portion of housing 120. Doors 136a,b can act as a double-door and cooperate with one another to reversibly cover an opening in a side of housing 120. System 100 can further comprise extendible posts 138 secured to one or more of base 102 and housing 120. System 100 can comprise four extendible posts 138 each disposed at a respective corner of housing 120. Extendible posts can be configured to reversibly extend above and/or away from the top of housing 120 and then retract back towards the top of housing 120.

[0085] Extendible posts 138 can be actuated electro-mechanically (e.g. using an electric motor or servo), pneumatically, or hydraulically. Each extendible post 138 can comprise a light source 140 at or near the top of each respective extendible post 138. Light sources 140 can comprise any suitable source including, but not limited to, halogen lights, arc lights, solid state light sources such as LED lights, and the like. Light sources 140 can be used to illuminate the work site and/or the substrate onto which the concrete mixture is to be deposited. In some implementations, light sources 140 can be mounted on a gimbal and/or a one or multi-axis actuator/holder to allow aiming of one or more of light sources 140 onto a target illumination area.

[0086] Each extendible post 138 can also comprise a monitoring camera 142 secured to light source 140 and/or otherwise secured at or near the top of each respective extendible post 138. These cameras can also be mounted on a gimbal ad/or a one or multi-axis actuator/holder to allow aiming of the monitoring cameras 142 towards a target monitoring area. Monitoring cameras 142 can allow an on-site and/or remote operator to monitor the work site and/or concrete deposition substrate without the need for the operator to have a line-of-sight to the target area for monitoring and/or without the need for the operator to be on-site.

[0087] The combination of the light sources 140 and monitoring cameras 142 can facilitate the use of system 100 to shoot concrete in low-light, extreme temperature, poor air quality, or other harsh conditions while allowing for remote monitoring of the work site and/or the substrate. Placing light sources 140 and monitoring cameras 142 on extendible posts 138 can allow each light source 140 to illuminate a larger area and/or each monitoring camera to monitor a larger area when extendible posts 138 are extended. While Fig. 1 shows four extendible posts 138 each having a corresponding light source 140 and monitoring camera 142, it is contemplated that in other implementations the system can have any number and/or arrangement of extendible posts and each post can have one or more of, or any combination of, light sources and monitoring cameras.

[0088] System 100 can comprise wheels 144 rotatably coupled to base 102. In Fig. 1, system 100 is shown as having wheels 144 mounted on three axles. It is also contemplated that in other implementations, system 100 can comprise wheels 144 mounted on one or two axles. Moreover, it is contemplated that in some implementations system 100 can comprise double- wheels at each of the two ends of one or more of the axles. In other implementations, system 100 can comprise tracks instead of and/or in addition to wheels. The implementations that comprise tracks instead of wheels can be transported between work sites by placing the system on a towable flat-bed trailer or other transport vehicle. Moreover, system 100 can comprise a ring 152 for reversibly securing system 100 to another vehicle for towing system 100. As such, system 100 can comprise a conveyance apparatus secured to base 102.

[0089] As shown in Fig. 1, this conveyance apparatus can comprise a towable trailer comprising wheels 144 and their respective axles. As discussed above, in some implementations the conveyance apparatus can comprise a towable trailer comprising tracks. In other implementations, the conveyance apparatus can comprise a self-propelled transport vehicle including, but not limited to, a truck. Moreover, in some implementations base 102 can be rotatable relative to the conveyance apparatus. This can allow system 100 to be driven and/or towed in a first direction, and then for base 102, housing 120, and hopper 104 to be rotated to point outlet connectors 106,108 in the optimal direction and/or towards the substrate that is to receive the concrete.

[0090] System 100 can further comprise an electrical generator 146 secured to base 102. In some implementations, electrical generator 146 can be mechanically coupled to and actuated by the large engine disposed inside housing 120, which engine is not visible in Fig. 1, but shown for example in Fig. 25. In other implementations, electrical generator 146 can be couple to and actuated by a separate, smaller engine (not visible in the figures). Using a separate engine can allow electrical generator 146 to be run to generate electricity without having to run the large engine inside housing 120 at much higher fuel consumption and cost. In some implementations, electrical generator 146 can comprise one or more electrical outlets (not shown in the figures) for allowing additional electrical tools to connect to and be powered by electrical generator 146.

[0091] System 100 can also comprise outriggers 148 and 150 each secured to base 102. While in Fig. 1 only two outriggers 148,150 are visible, it is contemplated that system 100 can comprise four outriggers, each disposed at one corner of base 102. Two of these outriggers can be extendible from one side of base 102, and the other two outriggers can be extendible from a second side of 102, the second side opposite the first side. Each outrigger can comprise two reversibly extendible members: a first member that extends way from base 102 in a direction in the plane defined by base 102, and a second member that extends from the first member in a direction out of the plane defined by base 102 and towards the ground or other surface supporting system 100. Some or all of these extendible members can be hydraulically actuated.

[0092] Given that such outriggers can be adjustable along at least two axes, these outriggers can be controlled by a control module to be self-leveling, in the sense that the control module can control the extent to which the first and/or the second member of each outrigger is extended/retracted such that the combined effect of the outriggers is to position system 100 at a given orientation relative to the ground/surface supporting system 100. In some implementations, this given orientation can be a level or horizontal orientation. Moreover, the outriggers can give system 100 a larger footprint on the ground/surface supporting system 100, and can thereby distribute the weight of system 100 over a larger area (e.g. to reduce the likelihood of system 100 sinking while on soft ground) and to provide additional lateral stability to system 100.

[0093] System 100 can further comprise one or more of a water tank and a fuel tank secured to base 102. In some implementations, these tanks can be disposed within base 102 and/or on a side of base 102 opposite housing 120. In other implementations, these tanks can be disposed on based 102 between housing 120 and base 102. The fuel tanks can be used to fuel the engine disposed inside housing 120 (engine is not shown in Fig. 1 , but shown e.g. in Fig. 25). The water tank can be used to add water to the concrete mixture, to provide water to clean various components of system 100, and/or to provide water for any other uses at the work site.

[0094] Turning now to openings 126,128, as discussed above they can be adjustable (e.g. using adjustable louvers) to control the air circulation into and out of at least one or more portions of housing 120. Such portions can form temperature-controlled compartments inside housing 120. In some implementations, all or substantially all of the space inside housing 120 can be a temperature-controlled compartment. In addition to adjusting openings 126,128, in some implementations heaters and/or air conditioners can be placed inside the temperature-controlled compartment to further adjust the temperature. Heat and/or heating can come from the operation of the engine (not visible in Fig. 1, but shown e.g. in Fig. 25). Cooling and/or air conditioning can be provided by an air-conditioner (not shown) positioned inside the temperature-controlled compartment. In some implementations, the air-conditioner can be electrical and powered by electrical generator 146.

[0095] Moreover, in some implementations housing 120 can comprise solar panels disposed on an outer surface of housing 120. These solar panels can be used to power hopper camera 112 and/or monitoring cameras 142, or to charge on-board batteries that can be used to power light sources 140. Moreover, while Fig. 1 shows housing 120 shaped as a rectangular prism, it is contemplated that in other implementations the housing can have any other suitable shape. In addition, the housing can have any suitable number, type, arrangement, and shape of doors and/or access openings. [0096] Referring now to ring 152, it can be used to couple system 100 to another vehicle used to tow system 100. While Fig. 1 shows ring 152, it is contemplated that in other implementations any other reversible coupling mechanism can be used.

[0097] Turning now to Fig. 2, another top perspective view of system 100 is shown. Fig. 2 shows base 102, and hopper 104, housing 120, and electrical generator 146 all secured to base 102. Hopper 104 comprises outlet connectors 106,108. Housing 120 comprises doors 158, 166a, and 166b, all hingedly coupled to portions of housing 120. Door 158 comprises a gauges opening 160 to allow access to gauges 162 and outlets 164 when door 158 is closed. Outlets 164 can comprise compressed air and/or hydraulic fluid connectors/outlets. Gauges 162 can comprise a display and/or digital or analogue gauges showing operational parameters of system 100 including, but not limited to, compressed air pressure, hydraulic fluid pressure, engine oil pressure, engine revolutions-per-minute (RPM), and the like. Fig. 2 also shown outriggers 154 and 156 secured to base 102, which outriggers can be similar to outriggers 148,150 described above.

[0098] Figs. 3 and 4 show a right side elevation and a left side elevation view of system 100 respectively. In these figures fenders 168 are shown (shown in both Figs. 3 and 4, but numbered only in Fig. 4). Fenders 168 can be secured to base 102 and disposed proximate wheels 144. Fenders 168 can protect housing 120 and the components therein from any water, dirt, or other contaminants projected by the rotation of wheels 144.

[0099] Fig. 5 shows a front elevation view of system 100, and depicts actuators 170 secured to hopper 104 and used for actuating agitator 116 disposed inside hopper 104. Agitator 116 is not visible in Fig. 5, but is shown for example in Fig. 1. Actuators 170 can comprise hydraulic actuators, including but not limited to hydraulic motors. While Fig. 5 shows hopper 104 as having two actuators 170, it is also contemplated that in some implementations the hopper can have only one actuator coupled to agitator 116.

[00100] Fig. 6 shows a back elevation view of system 100. Fig. 6 shows openings 172 in housing 120, which openings 172 can be have structure and function similar to openings 126,128 discussed above. In addition, Fig. 6 shows that electrical generator 146 can comprise doors 174a and 174b which can give access to the internal workings of electrical generator 146. Door 174b can comprise openings 176 that can be used to ventilate and/or control the temperature inside electrical generator 146. Fig. 7 shows a top plan view of system 100.

[00101] Turning now to Fig. 8, a partial top plan view of system 100 is shown, where housing 120 and the components therein are omitted to reveal the components of system 100 that would otherwise be obscured by housing 120. Fig. 8 shows hopper 104 having four outlet openings 202, 204, 206, and 208 in a first (back) wall of hopper 104, and having two outlet openings 210 and 212 in a second (front) wall of hopper 104 opposite the first wall.

[00102] System 100 also comprises a first connector tube 214 mounted movably to hopper 104. Connector tube 214 can also be described as a "S-tube". Connector tube 214 is configured to be movable between a first position 216 depicted in solid lines and a second position 218 depicted in dashed lines. In first position 216, connector tube 214 connects outlet opening 204 to outlet opening 210. In second position 218, connector tube 214 connects outlet opening 202 to outlet opening 210. As connector tube 214 moves and/or swings between first position 216 and second position 218, connector tube 214 alternately connects outlet opening 204 to outlet opening 210 and then outlet opening 202 to outlet opening 210.

[00103] At or near one end of connector tube 214 proximate outlet opening 210, connector tube 214 can be movably, pivotably, or rotatably coupled to hopper 104. In addition, connector tube 214 can be coupled to a support member 220 using support connectors 222 and 262. Support member 220, in turn, can be movably, pivotably, or rotatably coupled to hopper 104. In some implementations, support member 220 can be movably or rotatably received in support mount 238. Support mount 238 can comprise a depression and/or opening in the first wall of hopper 104. As support member 220 rotates and/or vacillates about its longitudinal axis, support member 220 swings connector tube 214 between first position 216 and second position 218 along an arcuate path. This path can comprise an arc of a circle centered at the longitudinal axis (of rotation) of support member 220.

[00104] A hydraulic actuator, not shown, can be used to move connector tube 214 between first position 216 and second position 218. In some implementations, system 100 can comprise an auto- greaser to add lubricant to and/or lubricate one or more of the components supporting and/or moving connector tube 214. Other connector tubes and their associated components described herein can also be lubricated by an auto-greaser.

[00105] The first wall of hopper 104 can comprise a reinforcing plate 224 surrounding at least outlet openings 202 and 204. As connector tube 214 swings between first position 216 and second position 218, the end of connector tube 214 proximate outlet openings 202 and 204 can form a complete, substantially complete, or at least partial liquid seal with reinforcing plate 224. Reinforcing plate 224 can comprise graphite or another material suitable for forming an at least partial moving liquid seal.

[00106] In some implementations, the second end of connector tube 214 proximate outlet opening 210 can extend out of outlet opening 210 to form all or a portion of outlet connector 106. In other implementations, the second end of connector tube 214 can be connected to outlet connector 106 using at least a partial liquid seal such that while connector tube 214 swings between first position 216 and second position 218, outlet connector 106 can remain stationary relative to hopper 104, thereby facilitating connection of a hose to outlet connector 106.

[00107] Hopper 104 is in fluid communication with a pumping tube 226a via outlet opening 202. Pumping tube 226a can be secured to base 102. Pumping tube 226a can be configured to receive the concrete mixture from hopper 104. A piston 228a is slideably received in pumping tube 226a. Piston 228a can comprise a piston head 230a connected to a piston shaft 232a. Piston 228a is configured to displace the concrete mixture receivable inside pumping tube 226a by moving between a retracted position where piston 228a is retracted relatively further out of pumping tube 226a and an extended position where piston 228a is extended relatively further into pumping tube 226a. In other words, in the retracted position a first volume of the concrete mixture is receivable inside pumping tube 226a and in the extended position a second volume of the concrete mixture is receivable inside pumping tube 226a, and the first volume is larger than the second volume.

[00108] A hydraulic actuator (e.g. hydraulic cylinder 234a) can be mechanically coupled to piston shaft 232a and used to move piston 228a between the retracted and extended positions. Hydraulic cylinder 234a can also be secured to base 102. A flush box 236a can be disposed proximate the end of pumping tube 226a near hydraulic cylinder 234a. Flush box 236a can comprise a sensor configured to sense when piston shaft 232a is in the retracted position. In the retracted position, piston head 230a can enter flush box 236a and be sensed by the sensor therein. In some implementations, the sensor in flush box 236a can comprise, but is not limited to, an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, a mechanical sensor, and the like.

[00109] Hopper 104 is also in fluid communication with a pumping tube 226b via outlet opening 204. Pumping tube 226b can be similar in structure and function to pumping tube 226a. A piston 228b is slideably received in pumping tube 226b. Piston 228b can comprise a piston head 230b connected to a piston shaft 232b. Piston 228b can be similar in structure and function to piston 228a. A hydraulic actuator (e.g. hydraulic cylinder 234b) can be mechanically coupled to piston shaft 232b and used to move piston 228b between the retracted and extended positions. Hydraulic cylinder 234b can also be secured to base 102. Hydraulic cylinder 234b can be similar in structure and function to hydraulic cylinder 234a. A flush box can be disposed proximate the end of pumping tube 226b near hydraulic cylinder 234b. This flush box can be similar in structure and function to flush box 236a. In some implementations, flush box 236a can have a sensor for both piston heads 230a and 230b. In such an implementation, there would be no need for two separate flush boxes and flush box 236a could sense both piston heads 230a and 230b.

[00110] In operation, the concrete mixture is received in hopper 104. Connector tube 214 can start in one of first position 216 and second position 218. By way of example, connector tube 214 can start in first position 216, which leaves outlet opening 202 uncovered by connector tube 214 and thereby pumping tube 226a in fluid communication with hopper 104. Next, hydraulic cylinder 234a can retract piston 228a, which in turn draws the concrete mixture out of hopper 104, through outlet opening 202, and into pumping tube 226a.

[00111] Next, connector tube 214 can be moved into second position 218, thereby connecting pumping tube 226a to outlet opening 210 and outlet connector 106. This movement of connector tube 214 can be triggered by the sensor in flush box 236a sensing piston head 230a, i.e. sensing that piston 228a is in the retracted position. After connector tube 214 completes its move from first position 216 to second position 218, hydraulic cylinder 234a moves piston 228a into the extended position thereby pushing the concrete mixture out of pumping tube 226a, through outlet opening 202, through connector tube 214, and towards outlet opening 210 and outlet connector 106.

[00112] At the same time as piston 228a is moving from its retracted position to its extended position, hydraulic cylinder 234b moves piston 228b from its extended position to its retracted position. This movement draws the concrete mixture out of hopper 104, through outlet opening 204, and into pumping tube 226b. When the respective flush box senses that piston head 230b is in the retracted position, then connector tube 214 is moved from second position 218 back to first position 216. Next, as piston 228a retracts again to draw the concrete mixture into pumping tube 226a, piston 228b extends to push the concrete mixture out of pumping tube 226b, through outlet opening 204, through connector tube 214, and towards outlet opening 210 and outlet connector 106. As system 100 continues to operate, connector tube 214 continues to move between first position 216 and second position 218 as piston 228a and 228b continue to move between their extended and retracted positions. These movements, in turn, continue to draw the concrete mixture out of hopper 104 and pump it towards outlet opening 210 and outlet connector 106.

[00113] As shown in Fig. 8, hopper 104 can comprise a divider 244 extending from first (back) wall comprising outlet openings 202, 204, 206, and 208 to second (front) wall comprising outlet openings 210 and 212. Divider 244 can divide hopper 104 into a first portion 266 and a second portion 268. In some implementations, divider 244 can be removable. The pumping structures and functions related to second portion 268 can be similar to the pumping structures and functions described above in relation to first portion 266. In other words, second portion 268 of hopper 104 can comprise connector tube 240, which can alternate between a first position 258 where connector tube 240 connects outlet opening 206 to outlet opening 212 and a second position 260 where connector tube 240 connects outlet opening 208 to outlet opening 212. Connector tube 240 can be similar in structure and function to connector tube 214.

[00114] Moreover, connector tube 240 can be coupled a support member 242 using support connectors 254 and 264. Support member 242, in turn, can be movably, pivotably, or rotatably coupled to hopper 104. In some implementations, support member 242 can be movably or rotatably received in support mount 245. Support mount 245 can comprise a depression and/or opening in the first wall of hopper 104. The support components associated with connector tube 240 can be similar in structure and function to the support components associated with connector tube 214 and described above.

[00115] In addition, the pumping tubes, pistons, flush box(es), and hydraulic cylinders associated with the second portion 268 of hopper 104 can be similar in structure and function to the corresponding components described above in relation to the first portion 266 of hopper 104. In other words, a pumping tube 226c can be in fluid communication with hopper 104 via outlet opening 206. Pumping tube 226c can receive a piston 228c, which can be actuated by a hydraulic cylinder 234c, and position of piston 228c can be sensed by a flush box 236b. Similarly, a pumping tube 226d can be in fluid communication with hopper 104 via outlet opening 208. Pumping tube 226d can receive piston 228d, which can be actuated by hydraulic cylinder 234d, and position of piston 228d can be sensed by flush box 236b. While in Fig. 8 flush box 236a is shown as sensing positions of both pistons 228a,b and flush box 236b is shown as sensing positions of both pistons 228c,d, it is contemplated that in some implementations each can have a dedicated flush box. In such an implementation, system 100 would have four flush boxes, one for each of pistons 228a, 228b, 228c, and 228d.

[00116] In operation, the pumping components associated with second portion 268 of hopper 104 can function in a manner similar to that described above in association with the operation of the pumping components associated with first portion 266 of hopper 104. As such, the components shown in Fig. 8 can be grouped into two pumping subsystems: a first pumping subsystem associated with first portion 266 of hopper 104. This first subsystem comprises outlet openings 202, 204, and 210, connector tube 214, pumping tubes 226a and 226b, pistons 228a and 228b, hydraulic cylinders 234a and 234b, and flush box 236a. The second subsystem is associated with second portion 268 of hopper 104. The second subsystem comprises outlet openings 206, 208, and 212, connector tube 240, pumping tubes 226c and 226d, pistons 228c and 228d, hydraulic cylinders 234c and 234d, and flush box 236b.

[00117] In Fig. 8, the two pumping subsystems are shown as being the same size and structure as one another. Having two pumping subsystems can double the flow-rate and/or the pumping output of system 100 compared to a similar pump that has only one pumping subsystem. Given that shotcrete can be time sensitive due to the solidifying/setting of the concrete mixture, a larger flow-rate can allow system 100 to shoot/deposit more concrete in a given time window allowed by the setting of the concrete mixture. In addition, having one system 100 with a larger flow rate can be superior to having multiple concrete pumps for several reasons including the limited space at shotcrete work sites, the better fuel efficiency of a one larger pump vs. multiple smaller pumps, and the like.

[00118] Moreover, system 100 having two pumping subsystems provides redundancy in case one subsystem fails, and this redundancy is provided at lower cost and space requirement that would be possible if multiple separate single-outlet pumps were used to provide a similar redundancy. As discussed above, such a redundancy can be beneficial when working with a concrete mixture that has only a limited time window before it sets/thickens beyond the point where the mixture can be used for shotcrete, i.e. beyond the point where the mixture is shootable and/or sprayable. Without any redundancy, pump breakdown can cause an entire concrete mixture batch to be lost if the breakdown cannot be repaired in the limited time window allowed by the setting concrete mixture.

[00119] In addition, having one system 100 with two outlet connectors 106,108 each fed by an independent pumping subsystem can provide benefits compared to splitting the output from a single- outlet pump using a Y-j unction. When a Y-j unction is used, the pressures in the two split outlets depend on one another. For example, if the two outlets are moved to or used at different elevations, then the pressures in the outlets would be different from one another. This, in turn, can undermine the uniformity of flow/spray of the concrete mixture from each of the two split outlets, which can adversely affect the shotcrete process and the concrete structures formed by the process.

[00120] In contrast, when outlet connectors 106,108 are each fed by an independent pumping subsystem as in system 100, the pressures in the outlet connectors 106 and 108 can be controlled and/or adjusted independently of one another. In some implementations, the pumping subsystems can be operated at different pressures appropriate for different applications. For example, one subsystem can be operated at high pressure and used to pump a concrete mixture for shotcrete, whereas the second subsystem can be operated at lower pressure and used to pump the concrete mixture for pouring a slab of concrete.

[00121] Furthermore, divider 244 can allow different concrete mixtures to be received in first portion 266 and second portion 268 of hopper 104. In this mode of operation, each pumping subsystem of system 100 can be used to pump a different concrete mixture simultaneously. Using system 100 to pump two separate mixtures can be advantages compared to using single-outlet pumps for the same purpose because to pump two separate mixtures either two different single-outlet pumps would need to be used (needing more space in the work site and incurring higher fuel and operating costs) or one single-out pump would need to be used with the first mixture, cleaned, and the used with the second mixture (requiring at least twice as much time as system 100 to pump the two mixtures).

[00122] Moreover, a single-outlet pump would have only one connector tube, which in operation would swing/move rapidly between its first and second positions. In addition, the connector tube is filled with a heavy concrete mixture as it swings and moves arcuately and laterally between its first and second positions. As such, the movement of the connector tube can cause significant vibrations in the pump. These vibrations can be detrimental and/or destructive to the mechanical components of the pump, and can increase the incidents of mechanical breakdowns and/or reduce the useful life of the pump. In addition, in small work sites where the pump cannot be stabilized by outriggers to give the pump a large footprint, these vibrations can potentially destabilize the pump. Moreover, when the ground or the surface supporting the pump is soft, these vibrations (and coupled potentially with limited space restricting the extensive use of outriggers) can hasten the pump sinking into the soft ground/surface.

[00123] In system 100, such detrimental vibrations can be reduced by timing the two pumping subsystems so that connector tube 214 and connector tube 240 move about synchronously but in opposite directions, thereby substantially or entirely cancelling out the forces/vibrations generated by each connector tube's lateral and arcuate movement. In other words, connector tube 214 and connector tube 240 can be configured to move synchronously but in opposite directions between their respective first positions and second positions. For example, in operation, at time ti connector tube 214 can be in first position 216 and connector tube 240 can be in first position 258. Then connector tubes 214 and 240 can synchronously move to arrive at their respective second positions 218 and 260 at a later time t ₂ , and then the process can repeat and continue in this manner.

[00124] Dampening and/or reducing the vibration caused by the movement of connector tubes can reduce the incidents of mechanical breakdowns caused by the vibration, can increase the stability of system 100, and can reduce the rate and/or extent of system 100 sinking into a soft ground. Moreover, reducing vibration can also potentially reduce the noises emitted by system 100 during its operation (compared to a single-outlet pump), which can reduce potential inconvenience or harm to persons or animals at or hear the shotcrete work site.

[00125] In addition, in implementations where hopper 104 is used without divider 244, the combined movement of connector tubes 214 and 240 can act to agitate the concrete mixture received in hopper 104, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for an agitator (e.g. agitator 116 shown in Fig. 1) to continuously agitate and mix the concrete mixture. For example, the same synchronous but in-opposite- direction movement of connector tubes 214 and 240 described above can be used to agitate the concrete mixture to keep it well-mixed and delay its setting while the concede mixture is received in hopper 104 and awaiting being pumped out.

[00126] In some implementations, a reverse Y-junction can be used to join the two outlets of system 100 (i.e. outlet connectors 106 and 108) into a single outlet. In this manner, the combined pumping flow rate and pressure of the two pumping subsystems can be directed into a single outlet, which can allow system 100 to be used as a midrise concrete pump to pump the concrete mixture to midrise elevations. In some implementations, midrise can comprise about 25 stories. To achieve the same outcome with single-outlet pumps would require the use of two or more single-outlet pumps, which single outlet pumps would require extra space in the work site and would also consume more fuel and incur higher operating costs than system 100.

[00127] Moreover, during the operation of each pumping subsystem, the arcuate movement of the connector tube and the reciprocating movement of the pistons can cause the outflow of the pumped concrete mixture to have a periodically variable and/or pulsating flow. Such variability and/or pulsating can undermine and/or reduce the uniformity of the flow of the concrete mixture out of the outlet connectors. In order to reduce this average variability per a given time window while keeping the flow rate substantially unchanged, in a single-outlet pump the rate/speed/frequency of movement of the connector tube and the corresponding reciprocating movement of the pistons in their corresponding pumping tubes would need to be increased. However, there is a limit to how much these rates can be increased imposed by the thickness of the concrete mixture which presents a resistance to flow. If the rates of movement become too fast, the concrete mixture may not have sufficient time to flow towards the outlet opening and into the corresponding pumping tube before the connector tube swings back towards and cuts off the outlet opening from the hopper.

[00128] In system 100, the use of two pumping subsystems can allow the variability of the flow to be reduced without increasing the rate/frequency of the movement of the connector tubes or the pistons. In some implementations, a reverse Y-junction can be used to connect outlet connectors 106 and 108, and then the two pumping subsystems can be run together as a four-stroke pump, in contrast to a single-outlet pump which has to be run as a two-stroke pump. Each stroke comprises the movement of a piston from its retracted position to its extended position to push/displace the concrete mixture out of the corresponding pumping tube, through the connector tube, and out of the corresponding outlet connector. The variability and/or pulsating quality of the flow can be at least partially caused by these strokes. By increasing the number of strokes per a given time window, the variability can be reduced in that time window.

[00129] In some implementations, the flow rate out of system 100 operating as a four-stroke pump can be kept the same as the flow rate out of a two-stroke pumping subsystem by halving the displacement of each stroke in the 4-stroke mode compared to the displacement of each stroke in the two-stroke mode. The displacement of each stroke can be defined by the volume of the concrete mixture that can be drawn into (or displaced out of) a pumping tube each time the piston moves between its retracted and extended positions. In some implementations, the displacement of each stroke can be halved by halving the distance the piston moves between its extended and retracted positions compared to the corresponding distance in the two-stroke model.

[00130] In this manner, in the four-stroke mode, system 100 can produce in a given time window four strokes each of half the displacement of a single-outlet pump delivering only two strokes in the same time window. Because system 100 has two pumping subsystems, moving from the two-stroke to the four-stroke modes can be achieved without increasing the speed/frequency of the movement of the connector tubes and the pistons.

[00131] In some implementations, these four strokes can be timed to be distributed evenly in the given time window. For example, in the four stroke mode system 100 can produce half-displacement pumping strokes at times t=0 and t=T/2 from a first pumping subsystem and half-displacement pumping strokes at times t=T/4 and t=3T/4 from the second pumping subsystem. This four-stroke mode can produce the same pumping flow rate in time period T, but with reduced flow variability, compared to a single-outlet pump operating in two-stroke mode and producing full-displacement pumping strokes at times t=0 and t=T/2.

[00132] While the description above describes using a reverse Y-j unction to connect outlet connectors 106,108 when operating in the four-stroke, reduced flow variability mode, it is contemplated hat in some implementations outlet connectors can be used separately (and without the need for the reverse Y- junction) in the four-stroke, reduced flow variability mode.

[00133] In some implementations in can be beneficial to vibrate hopper 104 to facilitate the concrete mixture moving towards outlet openings to be drawn into the corresponding pumping tubes. In order to produce vibrations of relatively larger amplitude, the two pumping subsystems can be timed to synchronize the movement of connector tubes 214 and 240. For example, in time ti connector tube 214 can be in first position 216 and connector tube 240 can be in its second position 260. Then the two connector tubes can move synchronously and in the same direction so that at a later time t2 connector tube 214 can be in second position 218 and connector tube 240 can be in first position 258. Then, the process can repeat. Vibrations of different profiles and amplitudes can be achieved by offsetting the phase of the movement of the connector tubes with one another so that their movements are out of phase with one another by different amounts.

[00134] In addition and/or instead of using the movement of the connector tubes to vibrate hopper 104, in some implementations a mechanical vibrator can be used to vibrate the hopper and the concrete mixture receivable in the hopper. This mechanical vibrator can be actuated mechanically (by the engine), hydraulically, pneumatically, and/or electrically (e.g. by an electric motor). In some implementations, the vibrator can comprise a weight mounted eccentrically to a rotatable shaft, the rotation of which causes a vibration. In other implementations, different types of suitable vibrators can be used.

[00135] Turning now to Fig. 9, a partial top plan view of system 100 is shown. Fig. 9 is similar to Fig. 8, with the difference being that Fig. 9 shows various agitator components that are not shown in Fig. 8. Fig. 9 depicts agitator 116 comprising agitator blades 248 and 250 in each of first portion 266 and second portion 268 of hopper 104. Since hopper 104 is shown as having divider 244, divider 244 can comprise an agitator mount 252 for supporting agitator 116. In some implementations, agitator mount 252 comprises an opening in divider 244, the opening configured to allow passage of at least a portion of agitator 116. In some implementations, agitator mount 252 can comprise and/or form a rotating seal with at least a portion of agitator 116 to prevent the mixture received in first portion 266 and the mixture received in second portion 268 to contaminate one another by leaking through the opening of agitator mount 252.

[00136] Fig. 9 also shows schematic representations of axles 246 to which wheels 144 (shown in Fig. 1) can be attached. In addition, an outline of fenders 168 is also shown. As discussed above, in some implementations the system can comprise one or two axles, instead of the three axles 246 shown in Fig. 9.

[00137] Turning now to Fig. 10, a top perspective view of an exemplary implementation of hopper 104 is shown. Hopper 104 comprises a (first) back wall 302, a (second) front wall 304, sides walls 306, 308, 310, and 213, and bottom walls 314 and 315. Back wall 302 is parallel or substantially parallel to front wall 304. Back wall comprises four outlet openings, but only one outlet opening 206 of the four is visible in Fig. 10. Back wall 302 also comprises support mounts 238 and 245, which can comprise depressions or through openings in back wall 302.

[00138] Front wall 304 comprises two outlet openings (not visible in Fig. 10). Each outlet opening can be coupled to and/or be in fluid communication with a respective outlet connector 106,108. A respective collar 318,320 fastened to front wall 304 can be used to secure each outlet connector to its respective outlet opening and/or to hopper 104. Divider 244 can extend from back wall 302 to front wall 304 to divide hopper 104 into first portion 266 and second portion 268. Divider 244 can be about normal to one or more of back wall 302 and front wall 304. Divider 244 can form a fluid-tight barrier between first portion 266 and second portion 268 such that a concrete mixture received in first portion 266 would not leak into and/or contaminate a second concrete mixture received in second portion 268. [00139] In some implementations, divider 244 can be removable. For example, one or more of back wall 302 and front wall 304 can comprise grooves, slots, sets of adjacent rails, and the like, configured to removably receive divider 244. First portion 266 can comprise two outlet openings and one support mount in back wall 302 and one outlet opening in front wall 304. Similarly, second portion 268 can comprise two outlets openings and one support mount 245 in back wall 302 and one outlet opening in front wall 304. In hopper 104, first portion 266 is shown as being about the same size and volume as second portion 268. However, it is contemplated that in other implementations the two portions can have sizes, shapes, and/or volumes that are different form one another.

[00140] Hopper 104 can comprise an inlet opening 316 configured for allowing a concrete mixture to be received in hopper 104. Moreover, side walls 306 and 308 are opposite and about normal to back wall 302. Each of these side walls 306,308 slopes or inclines inwardly (i.e. towards an inside of hopper 104) along at least a portion of the length of side walls 306,308 extending from inlet opening 316 towards bottom wall 314. Side walls 312 and 310 are also sloped or inclined inwardly in a manner similar to side walls 308,306.

[00141] Moreover, side walls 310,312 are also sloped or inclined inwardly along their at least a portion of their width as they extend respectively from side wall 306 and side wall 308 towards front wall 304. Side walls 306,308,310,312 each comprise two facets: a first facet proximate inlet opening 316 which is sloped as described above, and a second facet distal from inlet opening 316. In side walls 306,308,310,312 the second facet is about normal to inlet opening 316. While Fig. 10 shows the side walls as having two facets, it is contemplated that in some implementations the side walls may have one or more than two facets, and/or the one or more of the side walls can be curved or shaped in other suitable manner.

[00142] Bottom wall 314 can be about parallel to the plane defined by inlet opening 316, and can cooperate with/be joined with back wall 302 and side walls 306 and 308. Bottom walls 315 in turn can cooperate with/be joined with bottom wall 314, side walls 310 and 312, and front wall 304. Bottom wall 315 can slope inwardly along its length extending from bottom wall 314 towards front wall 304. As such, hopper 104 can at least partially taper in (i.e. narrows) in at least two directions: first, in the direction extending from inlet opening 316 towards bottom wall 314 and second, in the direction extending from back wall 302 towards front wall 304. This tapered shape can gather and direct the concrete mixture towards the outlet opening in back wall 302 to allow the concrete mixture to be drawn into the pumping tubes and pumped out of outlet connectors 106,108 by the pumping subsystems.

[00143] In addition, hopper 104 can comprise two circumferential ribs 322 and 324. Rib 322 can be disposed at or near opening 316 and extend from the front, back, and side walls of hopper 104 in a direction away from inside of hopper 104. Rib 324 can have a similar shape and/or structure, and can be further from rib 322 relative to inlet opening 316 and can be spaced from rib 322. Ribs 322 and 324 can be formed integrally with the back, front, and side walls of hopper 104. In other implementations, ribs 322,324 can be formed separately and then fastened and/or secured to the front, back, and side walls of hopper 104. Ribs 322,324 can strengthen hopper 104 laterally and reinforce it against the weight of the concrete mixture received inside hopper 104 deforming and or displacing the front, back, and/or side walls outwardly.

[00144] Turning now to Fig. 11, a left side elevation view of hopper 104 is shown. Fig. 11 shows a cap 332 that can be used to reversibly close a drain opening (not visible in Fig. 11) in bottom wall 314 of hopper 104. Fig. 12 shows a front side elevation view of hopper 104. Fig. 12 shows outlet openings 210 and 212 in front wall 304. Outlet opening 210 can be coupled to outlet connector 106 using collar 318. Similarly, outlet opening 212 can be coupled to outlet connector 108 using collar 320. Fig. 12 also shows cap 326 which can be used to reversibly close a drain opening (not visible in Fig. 12) in bottom wall 314 of hopper 104.

[00145] Fig. 13 shows a right side elevation view of hopper 104. Fig. 14, in turn, shows a rear side elevation view of hopper 104. Fig. 14 depicts outlet openings 202,204,206,208 as well as support mounts 238 and 245 in back wall 302. Fig. 15 shows a top plan view of hopper 104. Fig. 15 depicts drain openings 334 and 336 in bottom wall 314. Divider 244 can divide hopper 104 such that drain opening 334 is in second portion 268 and drain opening 336 is in first portion 266. Referring to Figs. 15 and 16, when concrete mixture residue is to be emptied, cleaned, and/or washed from inside hopper 104, caps 326,332 can be removed from one or more of drain openings 334,336 and any residues can be drained out of and/or washed out of the drain openings. After the cleaning is completed, caps 326,332 can be replaced to cover drain openings 334,336 before the next use when concrete mixture is to be received in hopper 104.

[00146] Fig. 16 shows a bottom plan view of hopper 104. Fig. 17, in turn, shows show a front side elevation view of hopper 104 including back shield 110, hopper camera 112, temperature control pipes 118, and hydraulic actuator 170. As shown in Fig. 17, pipes 118 can wrap around back, side, and front walls of hopper 104 along the outer circumference of hopper 104. When it is optimal to cool the concrete mixture receivable inside hopper 104, a cooling fluid such as water or another refrigerant can be circulated through pipes 118 to cool hopper 104, thereby cooling the mixture receivable therein. When it is optimal to warm the mixture, a heating fluid such as hot water can be circulated in pipes 118. Pipes 118 can be made of a material with relatively high thermal conductivity such as metals.

[00147] The path of pipes 118 can be selected to circumvent features and/or components that project out of the outer surface of the walls of hopper 104. For example, as shown in Fig. 17, pipes 118 can be disposed besides and/or in between ribs 322 and 324. In addition, pipes 118 can be curved, bent, and/or directed to circumvent hydraulic actuator 170 and outlet connectors 106,108 and collars 318,320. While Fig. 17 shows three loops/levels of pipes 118 following a given path, it is contemplated that in other implementations the pipes can have any other suitable diameter, path, and/or number of loops/level. In some implementations, the pipes can be disposed inside and/or integrally formed inside one or more of the walls of hopper 104.

[00148] As discussed above, pipes 118 can comprise as components of a temperature control module. In some implementations, the temperature control module can comprise an air conditioner to chill the water or condense and/or chill the refrigerant to be circulated in the fluid conduits. The temperature control module can also comprise a heater and/or a hot fluid reservoir to provide the hot water/fluid to be circuited in the fluid conduits. In some implementations, the temperature control module and comprise solid state heating/cooling elements (e.g. Peltier coolers and/or resistive electrical heating elements) and need not rely on any cooling/heating fluid and/or fluid conduits.

[00149] Fig. 18 shows a rear side elevation view of hopper 104 including back shield 110, hopper camera 112, temperature control pipes 118, and hydraulic actuator 170. The pipes 118 pass along the outer surface of back wall 302, and the path of pipes 118 is chosen to circumvent support mounts 238,245 and outlet openings 202,204,206,208.

[00150] Fig. 19 shows a right side elevation view of hopper 104 including back shield 110, hopper camera 112, temperature control pipes 118, and hydraulic actuator 170. The left side elevation, while not shown in the figures, can be similar to the right side elevation shown in Fig. 19. Fig. 20, in turn, shows a top plan view of hopper 104 including back shield 110, hopper camera 112, and grill 114.

[00151] Fig. 21 shows a sectioned view of hopper 104, sectioned along line I-I shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 21 shows an exemplary shape of reinforcing plates 224,256 secured to the inner surface of back wall 302 and respectively surrounding outlet openings 202,204 and outlet openings 206,208. While Fig. 21 shows the shape of reinforcing plates 224,256 as comprising three straight sides and a fourth convex curved side, it is contemplated that reinforcing plates 224,256 can have any other suitable shape and/or size. Fig. 21 also shows the shape of support connectors 222 and 254, and it is contemplated that these support connectors 222,254 can also have any other suitable shape and/or size.

[00152] Fig. 22 shows a right side elevation view of a partially sectioned hopper 104 and side elevation views of pumping tube 226d, piston 228d, flush box 236b, and hydraulic cylinder 234d. Since hopper 104 is depicted in a sectioned view, connector tube 240, support member 242, and support connectors 254,264 are visible inside hopper 104. In Fig. 22 connector tube 240 is shown at a point between its first position and second position. As the path of connector tube 240 is arcuate as it moves between its first and second positions, at a point between these two positions connector tube 240 appears slightly offset from pumping tube 226d.

[00153] Fig. 23 shows a top perspective view of a system 400 for pumping a concrete mixture, which system is similar to system 100 with the difference being the in system 400 there are no pipes surrounding hopper 104 and no back shield or hopper camera attached to hopper 104. Fig. 24 shows a right side elevation view of system 400.

[00154] Fig. 25 shows a top perspective view of a system 500 for pumping a concrete mixture, which system is similar to system 100 with the difference being that system 500 comprises a mixer 514. Fig. 25 shows system 500 with the doors 130, 136a, 136b, 158, 166a, 166b of system 500 open to show some of the components inside housing 120. System 100 can have the same components inside housing 120 as are shown and described herein in relation to system 500. In other words, it is contemplated that system 100 can have all the same components shown and described herein in relation to system 500 except for mixer 514, which mixer is present in system 500 but not in system 100.

[00155] System 500 comprises an engine 502 which can act directly or indirectly as the actuation source for some or all of the other components of system 500. Engine 502 is secured to base 102. Engine 502 can comprise an internal combustion engine, including but not limited to a diesel engine, and the like. In some implementations, the diesel engine can comprise an about 850 horsepower turbo diesel engine made by a suitable manufacturer such as Cummins™ or Caterpillar™. Moreover, in some implementations the diesel engine can comprise a tier 4 engine to comply with fuel efficiency and/or emissions requirements. In some implementations, the actuation source can comprise an electric motor instead of and/or in addition to an internal combustion engine.

[00156] Is some implementations, housing 120 can comprise a heater disposed inside housing 120 to warm all of housing 120 or at least the portion of housing 120 containing engine 502. This heater can be used to warm engine 502 in cold weather to facilitate the starting and the operation of engine 502. System 500 can further comprise an air compressor 504 secured directly or indirectly to base 102 and disposed inside housing 120. In some implementations, air compressor 504 can comprise a filtered and after- cooled air compressor. The air compressor can comprise any suitable type of compressor including, but not limited to, a twin screw compressor. In some implementations, air compressor 504 can comprise a Sullair™ 750 cfm after-cooled and filtered air compressor.

[00157] Air compressor 504 can be powered by engine 502. In some implementations, air compressor 504 can be mechanically coupled to engine 502 by a gearbox (not visible in Fig. 25). In other implementations, a different suitable mechanical coupling can be used such as drive belts and/or chains. In some implementations air compressor 504 can be housed within a temperature controlled compartment in housing 120. For example, a heater can be used to warm the portion of housing 120 housing air compressor 504 as very cold temperatures can interfere with the operation of air compressors. In some implementations, the same heater can be used for both heating the portions of housing 120 containing the engine and the air compressor. In some implementations, the engine is used as the heat source for heating the portion/compartment of housing 120 containing the air compressor.

[00158] In addition, system 500 comprises hydraulic pump 506, which is also secured directly or indirectly to base 102 and mechanically coupled to engine 502. Hydraulic pump 506 can also be coupled to engine 502 using the gear box. In some implementations, this gear box (used to couple the hydraulic pump to the engine) can be the same gear box used to couple the engine to the air compressor. In this manner, one engine 502 can be used to drive both air compressor 405 and hydraulic pump 506. In some implementations, hydraulic pump 506 can be mechanically coupled to engine 502 using a different type of mechanical coupling including but not limited to drive belts or chains. System 500 can also comprise a second hydraulic pump 524, which can be similar to hydraulic pump 506. This second hydraulic pump 524 is not visible in Fig. 25, but shown in Fig. 27.

[00159] Each hydraulic pump can be in fluid communication with a respective hydraulic cylinder (see e.g. Fig. 8) to power a respective pumping subsystem. Each hydraulic pump can also be in fluid communication with one or more hydraulic fluid reservoirs (not visible in Fig. 25, but shown in Fig. 29). In some implementations, one or more of the hydraulic pumps can comprise a suitable Rex Roth™ hydraulic pump, or any other suitable hydraulic pump.

[00160] As shown in Fig. 25, system 500 comprises engine 502 which powers air compressor 504 as well as powering both the hydraulic pumps 506 and 524 that power the two pumping subsystems. Moreover, all of the pumping subsystems, engine 502, hydraulic pumps 506 and 524, and air compressor 504 are incorporated into one machine, i.e. into system 500. As such, both the pumped concrete mixture and the stream of compressed air needed for the shotcrete method are provided by a single, space- efficient, and self-contained system 500. As such, system 500 can provided a dedicated supply of compressed air for shotcrete, which can obviate the need for relying on shared compressed air supplies. As a result, the supply of compressed air can be more closely controlled and kept more consistent, which in turn can allow for a more uniform deposition of the concrete mixture.

[00161] In addition, by incorporating both the pumping and compressed air sources into one machine (i.e. system 500), the footprint of the shotcrete machinery /equipment in the work site can be reduced. This can be especially advantageous in small or confined work sites such as tunnels, mine shafts, and congested or small urban construction sites.

[00162] System 500 can also comprise a peristaltic pump 508 secured directly or indirectly to base 102 and disposed inside housing 120. Peristaltic pump 508 can be mechanically coupled to (e.g. via the gearbox) and driven by engine 502. In some implementations, peristaltic pump 508 can be powered electrically or hydraulically. Peristaltic pump 508 can be used to pump material and/or mixtures including, but not limited to, grout, fine-aggregate concrete mixtures, fireproofing, and the like. As such, in some implementations, peristaltic pump 508 can also be used for shotcrete of fine-aggregate concrete mixtures.

[00163] Moreover, system 500 can also comprise mixer 514, which can be disposed proximate the front wall of hopper 104. Mixer 514 can be securable to base 102 via a base extension 510 and mixer mounts 512. In some implementations, mixer 415 can be reversibly securable on base 102. Base extension 510 can be secured to base 102, and mixer mounts 512 can secure the mixer 514 to base extension 510. Mixer mounts 512 can comprise mixer hinges 516 (or other j oints) which can allow mixer 514 to move between a mixing position (as shown in Fig. 25) whereby the ingredients are retained in mixer 514 under gravity and a transfer position (not shown in the figures) whereby the ingredients fall out of the mixer and into hopper 104 under gravity. Mixer 514 can be configured to mix ingredients for being added to hopper 104.

[00164] Fig. 26 shows the same perspective view of system 500 as shown in Fig. 25, with the difference being that the doors of housing 120 are shown in the closed position in Fig. 26. Fig. 27 shows another top perspective view of system 500, with the doors of housing 120 in the open position. Fig. 27 shows the second hydraulic pump 524 which can be actuated in a manner similar to hydraulic pump 506 and can also have a structure and function similar to hydraulic pump 506.

[00165] Fig. 27 also shows two peristaltic pumps 520,522 which can be secured directly or indirectly to one or more of base 102 and housing 120, and can be disposed inside housing 120. Peristaltic pumps 520,522 can be driven in any suitable manner including by engine 502, electrically, and/or hydraulically. Each of peristaltic pumps 520,522 can be used to add an additive to the concrete mixture being handled by a respective one of the pumping subsystems. Such additives can comprise, but are not limited to, accelerants, and the like. For example, each peristaltic pump 520,522 can be used to add additives to the concrete mixture in the respective one of the first portion and section portion of hopper 104. In addition, each peristaltic pump 520,522 can be used to add additives to the concrete mixture at the nozzle where compressed air is injected into the stream of the concrete mixture before being deposited on the substrate.

[00166] Furthermore, Fig. 27 depicts control module 526 disposed inside housing 120. Control module 526 can be configured to one or more of monitor and control one or more of engine 502 (or another actuation source if a different actuation source is used), hydraulic pumps 506,524, and air compressor 504. Control module 526 can comprise a communication interface configured for communicating with a remote terminal. This remote terminal can comprise a tethered/wired terminal and/or a remote or wireless terminal. In some implementations, this remote terminal can include, but is not limited to, a mobile device of an operator such as a smartphone or tablet computer of the operator, and the like.

[00167] In some implementations, the control module can be configured to send notifications to the terminal regarding the operation and the operational parameters of system 500. These notifications can comprise, but are not limited to, text notifications, visual notifications, audio notifications, and haptic/taptic™ notifications. In some implementations, the control module can be configured to communicate the operational parameters of system 500 and/or the actions of the operator of system 500 to a supervisor and/or control center. The control module can receive feedback from the supervisor and/or route that feedback (e.g. text messages and/or other notifications) to the operator of system 500. Moreover, in some implementations, the control module can also send image and/or video data from one or more of hopper camera 112 and monitoring cameras 142 to one or more of a remote operator of system 600 and/or a supervisor or control center. The control module can also allow light sources 140 and/or extendible posts 138 to be controlled by a remote operator and/or a remote supervisor.

[00168] Control module 526 can also comprise screen 528 for displaying operational information of system 500 to an operator. Screen 528 can comprise a touch-enabled screen, in which case screen 528 can operate as both an information output and input terminal for system 500. Control module 526 can also comprise gauges 530 which can provide further information about the operational parameters of system 500, such parameters including but not limited to compressed air pressure, hydraulic fluid pressure, concrete mixture pressure and flow rate, and the like. Gauges 530 can comprise analogue gauges, digital gauges, virtual gauges (e.g. a screen displaying a gauge) or any combination thereof. Gauges 530 can be similar to gauges 162 shown in Fig 2.

[00169] System 500 can also comprise compressed air and/or hydraulic fluid outlets 532 to allow additional pneumatic and/or hydraulic tools be powered by system 500. Outlets 532 can be similar to outlets 164 shown in Fig 2. It is contemplated that for hydraulic fluid outlets, there can be an inlet corresponding to each outlet, so the hydraulic fluid can return to its reservoir through the inlet after powering the hydraulic tools. In some implementations, one or more of outlets 532 can be part of control module 526 and/or proximate to gauges 530. In some implementation, control module 526 can comprise a processor connected by a bus to a computer-readable memory and one or more communication interfaces.

[00170] In some implementations, the compressed air stream generated by air compressor 504 can be used to drive and/or actuate a dry-mix gun that can be used for dry-mix shotcrete. Moreover, in some implementations the systems described herein (e.g. systems 100, 400, and/or 500) can further comprise a water booster pump (not shown in the drawings) secured directly or indirectly to base 102. Such a water booster pump can regulate and/or keep about constant the pressure of a water stream that is used in dry-mix shotcrete. This water stream is pumped to the dry-mix nozzle where the water is mixed with the dry concrete mix before the mixture is projected onto a substrate. The water booster pump can be powered hydraulically, electrically, mechanically, or by compressed air.

[00171] Referring to mixer 514, a hydraulic mixer actuator 518 can be used to actuate the mixer agitator (not visible in the figures) which can be used to mix the material receivable in mixer 514 when mixer 514 is in the mixing position. Turning now to Fig. 28, this figure shows the same perspective view of system 500 as shown in Fig. 27, with the difference being that the doors of housing 120 are shown in the closed position in Fig. 28.

[00172] Fig. 29 shows a left side elevation view of system 500 with the doors of housing 120 shown in the open position. Fig. 29 shows a high pressure pump 534 secured to base 102 and disposed inside housing 120. High pressure pump 534 can be mechanically, hydraulically, and/or electrically actuated. High pressure pump 534 can be used to pressure-wash hopper 104 and/or the component of system 500 or objects at the work site.

[00173] In some implementations, system 500 can comprise a fire detection and suppression module (not shown in the figures) disposed inside housing 120. The detection can be performed using heat and/or smoke sensors. The suppression can be performed using heat-actuated valves connected to a reservoir of an oxygen-displacing gas or other fire suppressant material. When the temperature rises above a given threshold, the heat-actuated valves open and release the fire suppressant inside housing 120 to suppress any fires.

[00174] Turning now to Fig. 30, this figure shows the same side elevation view of system 500 as shown in Fig. 29, with the difference being that the doors of housing 120 are shown in the closed position in Fig. 30. Fig. 31 shows a right side elevation view of system 500 with the doors of housing 120 shown in their open position. Fig. 31 shows the same side elevation view of system 500 as shown in Fig. 31, with the difference being that the doors of housing 120 are shown in the closed position in Fig. 32.

[00175] Moreover, Fig. 33 shows a top plan view of system 500 with the doors of housing 120 shown in their open position. Fig. 34 shows the same top plan view of system 500 as shown in Fig. 33, with the difference being that the doors of housing 120 are shown in the closed position in Fig. 34. Fig. 35 shows a front side elevation view of system 500 with the doors of housing 120 shown in their open position. Fig. 36 shows the same front side elevation view of system 500 as shown in Fig. 35, with the difference being that the doors of housing 120 are shown in the closed position in Fig. 36. Turning now to Fig. 37, a rear side elevation view of system 500 is depicted, with the doors of housing 120 shown in their open position. The rear side elevation view of system 500 with the doors of housing 120 depicted in the closed position would have the same appearance as Fig. 6.

[00176] In some implementations, system 500 can comprise a robotic arm (not shown in the figures) secured directly or indirectly to base 102. The robotic arm can be secured to base 102 proximate and/or in the place of electrical generator 146. In some implementations, the robotic arm can be secured to base 102 proximate and/or in the place of mixer 514. The robotic arm can be used to control and/or position the nozzle used for shotcrete. The movement of the robotic arm can be controlled by the control module, and can in turn allow for the remote monitoring and/or operation of the robotic arm by an operator and/or supervisor.

[00177] In some implementations, housing 120 of the systems described herein can further comprise one or more noise suppression panels secured to an inside surface of one or more of the walls/panels that form housing 120. These noise suppression panels can further reduce the amount of noise pollution that is emanated from housing 120 of the subsystems described herein.

[00178] The above-described implementations are intended to be exemplary and alterations and modifications may be effected thereto, by those of skill in the art, without departing from the scope of the invention which is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.