Paving machine having transversely and longitudinally adjustable grade sensors

摘要

A paver of the floating screed type which is capable of operating with screed extensions for laying down pavement at various widths includes a self-contained, stowable and extensible grade reference system with a wide, planar adjustment range. The grade reference system provides an adjustment range for positioning a grade sensing device on either or both sides of the paver both forward and transversely outward from a selected support point on the paver. The grade reference system has a pivotally outer support member which permits the sensing device to become positioned at any selected setting of an arcuate path forward of a rearward position in substantial alignment with the leading edge of the screed to a forward position determined by the length of the member. The pivotal adjustment range of the outer support member is augmented by a transverse adjustment range effected by an extension or retraction of a corresponding support member to shift the pivot axis of the outer support member respectively outward or inward. The combination of the two adjustments provides for a mix of anticipatory grade change sensing combined with laterally outward extensions of the screed beyond the full extension range of the screed.