METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EXCAVATION OF A TRENCH

摘要

The present application relates to a method and apparatus for excavating soil from the ground to form a hole or trench. The tool is provided with a plurality of excavation members which are caused to penetrate the ground in order that soil may be excavated. The direction of excavation of the tool may be adjusted by the use of one or more steering members (10), the or each steering member comprising a steering element (11) which is dísposed, or is operate to be disposed, such that the initial point of contact of the steering element with the ground allows the direction of excavation of the tool to be adjusted. Provides a simple, but effective, mechanical means to adjust the direction of excavation. The steering element may comprise a plate which is angled such that at the point of contact with the ground, the steering members may gently divert the grab in the desired direction. Thus, in this way, any deviation in the direction of excavation can be corrected or at least countered. Furthermore, the direction of excavation of the tool may be monitored which may involve monitoring the plan position of the tool and/ or the verticality of the tool as it penetrates the ground.