Patent Publication Number: US-8540180-B2

Title: Apparatus and method for distribution of a floor covering

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/158,052, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Distribution of a Floor Covering,” filed Mar. 6, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The invention relates generally to distributing a floor covering, and more particularly to a device and methods used to effectively, move, unroll and/or roll carpet rolls along a surface. 
     Laying, unrolling and/or installing carpet and/or floor coverings often requires large amounts of time and effort. This is especially true when large floor area is to be covered. For example, in preparing for conventions, certain athletic events and/or other social events, large amounts of carpet are often temporarily laid to cover gymnasium floors, convention center floors and other surfaces. Some known carpet rolls used in such circumstances can be up to 12 feet in length, can have a roll diameter of up to four feet and/or can weigh as much as 1000 pounds. As such, known methods for unrolling and/or laying such carpet rolls can include having a crew of up to four (or more) individuals manually exert a force (e.g., by pushing) on the carpet roll to unroll the carpet roll. Accordingly, large amounts of time and manpower are devoted to carpet laying. 
     Moreover, carpet laying and/or unrolling can be a significant cause of injuries to the crew. For example, because of the size and weight of the rolls of carpet, back injuries can be a common occurrence among individuals who roll and/or unroll carpet. 
     Accordingly, a need exists for improved apparatus and methods for distributing a floor covering, laying carpet and/or otherwise rolling a substantially cylindrical roll. 
     SUMMARY 
     Apparatus and methods for unrolling and/or rolling a substantially cylindrical roll are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame and a roller. The frame has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to be coupled to a vehicle configured to move along a surface, such as for example, an industrial utility vehicle, scooter or the like. The roller is coupled to the second portion of the frame such that when the first portion of the frame is coupled to the vehicle the second portion of the frame and the roller are spaced apart from the surface, and the roller is configured to contact a portion of a substantially cylindrical roll. The portion of the substantially cylindrical roll is disposed between the surface and a horizontal center line of the substantially cylindrical roll. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration of a device for moving a substantially cylindrical roll according to an embodiment in a first configuration relative to the substantially cylindrical roll. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the device shown in  FIG. 1  taken along line X 1 -X 1  in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic illustration of the device shown in  FIG. 1  in a second configuration relative to the substantially cylindrical roll. 
         FIGS. 4 and 5  are schematic illustrations of device according to an embodiment having a roller assembly in a first position and a second position, respectively. 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the device shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5  with the roller assembly in the second position and in contact with a substantially cylindrical roll. 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic illustration of a portion of the device shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a front view schematic illustration of a portion of the device shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 . 
         FIG. 9  is a top view schematic illustration of the device shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5  with a roller assembly in contact with the substantially cylindrical roll. 
         FIGS. 10 and 11  are side views of different portions of a device for moving a substantially cylindrical roll according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 12-14  are a top view, a side view and a front view, respectively, of portion of a vehicle mounting frame of the device shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIG. 15  is a top view of a portion of a vehicle mounting frame of the device shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIG. 16  is a front view of a clamp assembly of the device shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIG. 17  shows various views of portions of the clamp assembly shown in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 18  shows a top view and a front view of a portion of a vehicle mounting frame of the device shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIG. 19  is a top view of a roller portion of the device shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIGS. 20 and 21  are a top view and a front view, respectively, of a slide frame of the roller portion shown in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 22  is a side view of a roller frame of the roller portion shown in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of a roller assembly of a rolling device, according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Apparatus and methods for unrolling and/or rolling a substantially cylindrical roll are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame and a roller. The frame has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to be coupled to a vehicle configured to move along a surface, such as for example, an industrial utility vehicle, scooter or the like. The roller is coupled to the second portion of the frame such that when the first portion of the frame is coupled to the vehicle the second portion of the frame and the roller are spaced apart from the surface and the roller is configured to contact a portion of a substantially cylindrical roll. The portion of the substantially cylindrical roll is disposed between the surface and a horizontal center line of the substantially cylindrical roll. The substantially cylindrical roll can be, for example, a carpet roll. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame and a roller. The frame has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to be coupled to a vehicle configured to move along a surface. The roller is coupled to the second portion of the frame such that when the first portion of the frame is coupled to the vehicle the roller is spaced apart from the surface and is configured to maintain contact with an outer surface of a substantially cylindrical roll when the substantially cylindrical roll is rolled along the surface and the vehicle is moved along the surface. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame and a roller. The frame has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the frame is configured to be coupled to a vehicle that moves along a surface. The roller is coupled to the second portion of the frame such that when the first portion of the frame is coupled to the vehicle the roller is spaced apart from the surface by a distance and is configured to contact a portion of a substantially cylindrical roll. The substantially cylindrical roll can be, for example, a carpet roll. The second portion of the frame is configured to move relative to the first portion of the frame such that the distance can be changed. In this manner, the vertical location (e.g., the height from the surface) of the portion of the substantially cylindrical roll contacted by the roller can be adjusted. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a frame and a roller. The frame has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the frame is configured to be coupled to a vehicle, such as for example, an industrial utility vehicle, scooter or the like. The second portion of the frame includes a first frame member and a second frame member. At least a portion of the first frame member is non-linear, and at least a portion of the second frame member is non-linear. In some embodiments, for example, a portion of the first frame member and a portion of the second frame member can be curved. The roller is coupled to the first frame member and the second frame member. The roller is configured to transmit a force to a carpet roll to unroll the carpet roll when the first portion of the frame is coupled to the vehicle, the roller is in contact with a portion of the carpet roll, and the vehicle is moved. 
     The term “parallel” is used herein to describe a relationship between two geometric constructions (e.g., two lines, two planes, a line and a plane, two curved surfaces, a line and a curved surface or the like) in which the two geometric constructions are substantially non-intersecting as they extend substantially to infinity. For example, as used herein, a planar surface (i.e., a two-dimensional surface) is said to be parallel to a line when every point along the line is spaced apart from the nearest portion of the planar surface by a substantially equal distance. Similarly, a line is said to be parallel to a curved surface when the line and the curved surface do not intersect as they extend to infinity and when every point along the line is spaced apart from the nearest portion of the curved surface by a substantially equal distance. Two geometric constructions are described herein as being “parallel” or “substantially parallel” to each other when they are nominally parallel to each other, such as for example, when they are parallel to each other within a tolerance. Such tolerances can include, for example, manufacturing tolerances, measurement tolerances or the like. 
     The terms “perpendicular,” “orthogonal,” and/or “normal” are used herein to describe a relationship between two geometric constructions (e.g., two lines, two planes, a line and a plane, two curved surfaces, a line and a curved surface or the like) in which the two geometric constructions intersect at an angle of approximately 90 degrees within at least one plane. For example, as used herein, a line is said to be normal to a curved surface when the line and a portion of the curved surface intersect at an angle of approximately 90 degrees within a plane. Two geometric constructions are described herein as being, for example, “perpendicular” or “substantially perpendicular” to each other when they are nominally perpendicular to each other, such as for example, when they are perpendicular to each other within a tolerance. Such tolerances can include, for example, manufacturing tolerances, measurement tolerances or the like. 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  are schematic illustrations of a rolling and/or unrolling device  101  according to an embodiment. As described herein, the rolling and/or unrolling device  101  can be coupled to a vehicle  180  and used to move, roll and/or unroll a substantially cylindrical roll CR along a surface S. The vehicle  180  can be any device for carrying and/or moving people and/or objects, such as, for example, an industrial utility vehicle, scooter or the like. 
     The substantially cylindrical roll CR has a diameter φ, and defines a horizontal center line CL H , a vertical center line CL V  and an axial center line CL A  (see  FIG. 2 ). The axial center line CL A  substantially intersects the center of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, and is the axis about which the substantially cylindrical roll CR rotates when moved, rolled and/or unrolled along a surface S. The horizontal center line CL H  substantially intersects the center of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, and is substantially parallel to the surface S. The vertical center line CL V  substantially intersects the center of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, and is substantially normal to the surface S. The horizontal center line CL H , the vertical center line CL V  and the axial center line CL A  are all substantially normal to each other. As described in more detail herein, in some instances when the substantially cylindrical roll CR is rolled, unrolled and/or distributed over the surface S, the diameter φ is changes as the substantially cylindrical roll CR is rolled, unrolled and/or distributed. 
     The substantially cylindrical roll (or object) CR can be any substantially cylindrical object that is to be rolled along the surface S. In some embodiments, the substantially cylindrical roll CR can be a roll of material that is to be unrolled and/or distributed over the surface S. The material to be unrolled can be, for example, carpet, floor covering, fabric, vinyl, paper, sod or the like. In other embodiments, the substantially cylindrical roll CR can be an object that is not “unrolled” or distributed, such as for example, a barrel, a shipping tube, drainage pipes or the like. 
     The rolling and/or unrolling device  101  includes a frame  100  and two rollers  160   a ,  160   b  coupled to the frame  100 . The frame  100  includes a first portion  110  and a second portion  130 . The first portion  110  is coupled to the vehicle  180 . The first portion  110  can be coupled to the vehicle  180  via any suitable mechanism, such as, for example, a weld joint, screws, clamps, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the first portion  110  of the frame  100  can be removably coupled to the vehicle  180 . In this manner, the device  101  can be removed from the vehicle  180  and stored when not in use. In other embodiments, the first portion  110  of the frame  100  can be fixedly coupled to the vehicle  180 . 
     The first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b , which can each be any suitable roller (e.g., a cylindrical roller having an outer “roller” member that rotates about a spindle), are coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100 . The first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  are coupled to the frame such that the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  can rotate relative to the second portion  130  of the frame  100 . In particular, the first roller  160   a  is coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100  such that the second portion  130  of the frame  100  and the first roller  160   a  are spaced apart from the surface S when the roller  160   a  contacts the substantially cylindrical roll CR. As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the roller  160   a , which is the portion of the device  101  closest to the surface S, is spaced apart from the surface S by a distance d. In this manner, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  and the first roller  160   a  will not scrape, contact and/or scratch the surface S and/or the unrolled portion UR of the substantially cylindrical roll CR when the device  101  is used to move, roll and/or unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR along the surface S. Although the roller  160   a  is shown and described as being the portion of the device  101  closest to the surface S, in other embodiments, a portion of the second portion  130  of the frame  100  or the second roller  160   b  can be the portion of the device  101  closest to the surface S. 
       FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  taken along line X 1 -X 1  in  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  are coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100  such that the first roller  160   a  contacts a first contact portion CPa of the substantially cylindrical roll CR and the second roller  160   b  contacts a second contact portion CPb of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. The first contact portion CPa and the second contact portion CPb are shown as being regions with double cross-hatching in  FIG. 2 . The first contact portion CPa and the second contact portion CPb are shown as being regions (or areas) along the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, rather than one-dimensional portions (e.g., lines), because when the device  101  is used to move, roll and/or unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR, a portion of the roll CR and/or the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  may deform, thereby resulting in a two-dimensional contact area between the rollers  160   a ,  160   b  and the surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In other embodiments, however, the first contact portion CPa and/or the second contact portion CPb can be a line along which the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  contact the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the first contact portion CPa is disposed between the surface S and the horizontal center line CL H  of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. Similarly stated, the first contact portion CPa is on the lower half (i.e., the half closest to the surface S) of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In this manner, when the device  101  is used to move, roll and/or unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR, a portion of a horizontal force produced by the vehicle  180  is transmitted as a vertical, upward or lifting force on the substantially cylindrical roll CR. Moreover, in certain situations this arrangement allows at least the first roller  160   a  to maintain contact with the substantially cylindrical roll CR as the substantially cylindrical roll CR is unrolled and the diameter φ decreases. Although the second contact portion CPb is shown as being disposed between the surface S and the horizontal center line CL H , in other embodiments, the second contact portion CPb can be in any suitable location on the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     Moreover, as shown in  FIG. 1 , when the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  are in contact with the substantially cylindrical roll CR, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  is spaced apart from the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In this manner, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  will not scrape, contact and/or scratch the substantially cylindrical roll CR when the device  101  is used to move, roll and/or unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR along the surface S. In other embodiments, however, a portion of the second portion  130  of the frame  100  can contact the substantially cylindrical roll CR. For example, in some embodiment, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  can include a guide member (not shown in  FIG. 1  or  2 ) that contacts the substantially cylindrical roll CR to guide and/or maintain alignment of the substantially cylindrical roll CR and/or the device  101 . 
     In use, after the device  101  is coupled to the vehicle  180 , the vehicle  180  is moved as shown by the arrow AA until the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  contact the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, as described above. Further movement of the vehicle  180  in the direction shown by arrow AA causes the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  to exert a force on the substantially cylindrical roll CR. More particularly, the first roller  160   a  exerts a force Fa on the substantially cylindrical roll CR that is substantially normal to the first contact portion CPa (and/or the tangent line intersecting the first contact portion CPa). Similarly, in certain circumstances, the second roller  160   b  exerts a force Fb on the substantially cylindrical roll CR that is substantially normal to the second contact portion CPb (and/or the tangent line intersecting the second contact portion CPb). As described above, the force Fa and the force Fb each have a horizontal component and a vertical component that cooperatively act to rotate the substantially cylindrical roll CR about its axial center line CL A , as shown by the arrow BB in  FIG. 1 . 
     When the substantially cylindrical roll CR is rotated about its axial center line CL A , as shown by the arrow BB in  FIG. 1  the first roller  160   a  rotates as shown by the arrow CC in  FIG. 1  and/or the second roller  160   b  rotates as shown by the arrow DD in  FIG. 1 . Similarly stated, when the substantially cylindrical roll CR is rotated about its axial center line CL A , the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  can roll along the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. Said another way, when the substantially cylindrical roll CR is rotated about its axial center line CL A , the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  can maintain rolling contact with the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In this manner, the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  can exert a force on the substantially cylindrical roll CR to move, roll and/or unroll a substantially cylindrical roll CR while minimizing the scraping, sliding contact and/or frictional losses between the device  101  (e.g., any portion of the frame  100 , the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b ). 
     Although the device  101  is shown and described as having a first roller  160   a  and a second roller  160   b  that each contact a portion (e.g., the first contact portion CPa and the second contact portion CPb, respectively) of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, in other embodiments, only a single roller can contact a portion of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. Similarly stated, in certain instances, the geometric relationship between the rollers  160   a ,  160   b  and the substantially cylindrical roll CR can be such that only one of the first roller  160   a  or the second roller  160   b  contacts the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. More particularly, the diameter of the first roller  160   a , the diameter of the second roller  160   b , the distance and angle through which the first roller  160   a  is spaced apart from the second roller  160   b  and/or the diameter φ of the substantially cylindrical roller CR can be such that only one of the first roller  160   a  or the second roller  160   b  contacts the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. For example, in certain instances, the diameter φ of the substantially cylindrical roll CR can be small enough such that the second roller  160   b  does not contact the substantially cylindrical roll CR. Conversely, in other instances, the diameter φ of the substantially cylindrical roll CR can be sized and/or the second frame member  130  can be positioned at an angle relative to the surface S such that the first roller  160   a  does not contact the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     Moreover, in certain situations when the substantially cylindrical roll CR is unrolled, rolled and/or distributed over the surface S, the diameter φ changes (i.e., increases or decreases) as the substantially cylindrical roll CR is rolled, unrolled and/or distributed. For example,  FIG. 3  is a schematic illustration showing the device  101  and the substantially cylindrical roll CR after a portion of the material of the substantially cylindrical roll CR has been unrolled, distributed and/or “laid” about the surface S. As shown in  FIG. 3 , because a portion of the material of the substantially cylindrical roll CR has been removed from the roll, the diameter φ 2  of the substantially cylindrical roll CR is less than the initial diameter φ (as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ). This decrease of the diameter results in only the first roller  160   a  contacting the substantially cylindrical roll CR during a portion of the unrolling operation. 
     Although the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  are shown as being coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100  in a fixed position relative to each other, in other embodiments, the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  can be movably coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100 . For example in some embodiments, the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  can be coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100  such that the distance between the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  (i.e., the roller spacing) can be adjusted. In this manner, the roller spacing can be adjusted so that the device can accommodate a number of different cylindrical rolls having different diameters. In other embodiments, the roller spacing can change when the device  100  is rolling, unrolling and/or moving the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In some embodiments, for example, the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  can be coupled to the second portion  130  of the frame  100  via a biasing member to allow the first roller  160   a  and/or the second roller  160   b  to move relative to the second portion  130  of the frame  100 . Such a “dynamic adjustment” arrangement can ensure that the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b  each maintain rolling contact with the substantially cylindrical roll CR during the rolling, unrolling and/or moving operation and/or as the diameter of the substantially cylindrical roll CR changes. 
     Although the second portion  130  of the frame  100  is shown as being in a fixed position and/or orientation relative to the first portion  110  of the frame  100 , in other embodiments, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  can move relative to the first portion  110  of the frame. In some embodiments, for example, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  can rotate and/or translate relative to the first portion  110  of the frame. 
     Although the second portion  130  of the frame  100  is shown as being in a fixed position relative to the first portion  110  of the frame  100 , in other embodiments, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  can move relative to the first portion  110  of the frame  100 . In some embodiments, for example, the second portion  130  of the frame  100  can rotate and/or translate relative to the first portion  110  of the frame  100  and/or the surface S. In this manner, the angle of orientation of the second portion  130  of the frame and/or the distance d can be adjusted. 
     Although the device  101  is shown and described as including two rollers (i.e., the first roller  160   a  and the second roller  160   b ), in other embodiments, a device can include any number of rollers. For example, in some embodiments, a device can include a single roller. In other embodiments, a device can include a set of rollers that includes, three, four or more rollers. In some such embodiments, the rollers can be coupled to a frame such that the axes of rotation of the rollers define a curved surface. Similarly stated, in some such embodiments, the rollers can be coupled to a frame such that the axes of rotation of the rollers are not linearly aligned. For example,  FIGS. 4-9  are schematic illustrations of a rolling and/or unrolling device  201  according to an embodiment that includes multiple rollers and a height adjustment mechanism configure to adjust the position of the rollers relative to the surface and/or the roll. As described herein, the rolling and/or unrolling device  201  can be coupled to a vehicle  280  and used to move, roll and/or unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR along a surface S (see e.g.,  FIG. 7 ). 
     The device  201  includes an adapter  210 , a roller assembly  230  and a height adjustment mechanism  265 . The adapter  210  can be any frame and/or mount configured to couple the roller assembly  230  to the vehicle  280 . In some embodiments, for example, the adapter  210  is a rigid mount mechanism. In other embodiments, the adapter  210  can be a flexible, deformable and/or movable mount mechanism. In some embodiments, the adapter  210  can include one or more frame members that correspond to, fit within and/or matingly engage the front portion of the vehicle  280 . 
     In some embodiments, the adapter  210  can be releasably coupled to the front portion of the vehicle  280 . In such embodiments, the adapter  210  can include clamps, bolts and/or any other mechanism to releasably couple the adapter  210  to the front portion of the vehicle  280 . In other embodiments, the adapter  210  is releasably coupled to the vehicle  280  by non-mechanical means, such as, for example, an electromagnet, a pneumatic clamp, a suction clamp, and/or the like. 
     Once coupled to the vehicle  280 , the adapter  210  does not move with respect to the vehicle  280 . In other embodiments, however, an adapter can be configured to move (e.g., translate and/or rotate) relative to the vehicle  280 . For example, in some embodiments, the adapter  210  can move relative to the vehicle  280  when the roller assembly  230  is moved relative to the vehicle  280  between its first position ( FIG. 4 ) and its second position ( FIG. 5 ), as described in further detail herein. In yet other embodiments, the adapter  210 , roller assembly  230  and the vehicle  280  are not configured to move with respect to each other. 
     The roller assembly  230  includes a frame  250 , a roll support member  258  and multiple rollers  260 .  FIGS. 7 and 8  show a detailed side view and a detailed front view, respectively, of the roller assembly  230 . The frame  250  is slidably mounted to the adapter  210 . In this manner, the roller assembly  230  can be moved relative to the adapter  210 . Thus, the height of the roller assembly  230  relative to the vehicle  280  and/or the surface S (e.g., the floor) can be selectively adjusted. In this manner, the roller assembly  230  can be raised when not in use, adjusted to engage a variety of different substantially cylindrical rolls CR or the like. The position of roller assembly  230  can be controlled such that bottom of roller assembly  230  can be positioned at a desired position from the surface S (e.g., ¾ inch). In this manner, the frame  250 , the roll support member  258  and the set of rollers  260  are spaced apart from the surface S when the rollers  260  contact the substantially cylindrical roll CR, as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
     In some embodiments, the roller assembly  230  can include wheels configured to contact the surface S and/or roll over any material unrolled and/or removed from the substantially cylindrical roll CR when the device  201  is unrolling, rolling and/or moving the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In other embodiments, the frame does not include wheels. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , the frame  250  has a frame member  251  and a frame member  253  to which and/or between which the rollers  260  are mounted. The frame member  251  is substantially parallel to the frame member  253 . Similarly stated, a center line CL F1  of the frame member  251  is substantially parallel to a center line CL F2  of the frame member  253 . In this manner, the frame member  251  is spaced apart from the frame member  253  by a distance that substantially corresponds to the length of the rollers  260 . In other embodiments, however, the frame member  251  can be non-parallel to the frame member  253 . 
     The frame member  251  includes a linear portion  251 ′ and a non-linear and/or curved portion  251 ″. The frame member  253  includes a linear portion  253 ′ and a non-linear and/or curved portion  253 ″. The non-linear and/or curved portion  253 ″ of the frame member  253  can be seen, for example, in  FIG. 7  (since  FIG. 7  is a side view, only the frame member  253  is shown in  FIG. 7 ). Although the non-linear and/or curved portion  251 ″ is shown as being curved, in other embodiments, the non-linear and/or curved portion  251 ″ can include multiple linear (or straight) portions joined to form a non-linear portion. A subset  260 ′ of the rollers  260  are coupled to and/or between the linear portion  251 ′ of the frame member  251  and the linear portion  253 ′ of the frame member  253 . Accordingly, the axes of rotation of the subset  260 ′ the rollers  260  is linearly aligned. The subset  260 ′ of rollers  260  are configured to engage large rolls (e.g., substantially cylindrical rolls having a diameter up to four feet). Accordingly, in certain instances the subset  260 ′ of rollers  260  does not engage and/or contact the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , at least one of the rollers  260  is coupled to and/or between the non-linear and/or curved portion  251 ″ and the non-linear and/or curved portion  253 ″. In this manner, the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  260  can be non-linearly aligned. Similarly stated, the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  260  can define a curved surface. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the curved portion  253 ′ and/or the curved surface defined by the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  260  can substantially correspond to diameter of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     In some embodiments, the frame  250  can include multiple members movably coupled to each other such that the radius of curvature of the curved surface defined by the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  260  can change as the substantially cylindrical roll CR is unrolled. In some such embodiments, for example, the individual members and/or the rollers  260  can be biased (e.g., via springs or the like) in a position having a nominal radius of curvature (e.g., nine inches), and configured to move to adjust the radius of curvature as the substantially cylindrical roll CR is unrolled. 
     The rollers  260  coupled between and/or adjacent the non-linear and/or curved portion  251 ″ and the non-linear and/or curved portion  253 ″ are configured such that they define a carpet engagement area CP (shown as the shaded region in  FIG. 8 ). In some embodiments, the carpet engagement area CP can define a radius of curvature that corresponds and/or approximates a radius of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. In some embodiments, the carpet engagement area CP can have a fixed arrangement (e.g., defining a radius of curvature is 9 inches, 12 inches, or any suitable value). In other embodiments, the carpet engagement area CP can define a radius of curvature that varies. In such embodiments, the rollers  260  can be movable with respect to each other such that the contour of the carpet engagement area CP changes as the substantially cylindrical roll CR is unrolled, as described above. In such a manner, the carpet engagement area can accommodate different sizes of carpet rolls. 
     The roll support member  258  is coupled to the frame  250  and is configured to provide support for the substantially cylindrical roll CR as it is rolled, unrolled and/or moved along the surface S. As shown in  FIG. 7 , the leading edge of the roll support member  258  extends beyond the bottom most roller  260   a . In this manner, the roll support member  258  can provide an initial point of contact with the substantially cylindrical roll CR. The leading edge of the roll support member  258  can extend beyond the bottom most roller  260   a  by any suitable amount (e.g., approximately 3 inches, more than 3 inches or less than 3 inches). 
     The roll support member  258  is non-parallel to the surface S and can define any suitable angle with the surface S when the substantially cylindrical roll CR is being rolled, unrolled and/or moved. In some embodiments, for example, the roll support member  258  defines an angle with the surface S that is greater than 75 degrees. In other embodiments, the roll support member  258  forms an angle with the surface S of less than 75 degrees. In such embodiments, the angle can be 60 degrees, 45 degrees or the like. The angle of the roll support member  258  with respect to the surface S can influence the vertical component of a force F (see  FIG. 7 ) exerted by the roll support member  258  on a portion of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, as described in further detail herein. As shown, because the roll support member  258  is not parallel or perpendicular to the floor, a portion of a horizontal force F H  produced by the vehicle  280  is transmitted via the roll support member  258  as a lifting force (i.e., a vertical force) to aid in rolling, unrolling and/or moving the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     In use, the rollers  260  and the roll support member  258  are configured cooperatively to engage the substantially cylindrical roll CR such that translational force (in horizontal direction) results in rotational motion (i.e., rolling motion) of the substantially cylindrical roll CR, as further described herein. The rollers  260  and the roll support member  258  are cooperatively configured to engage the carpet roll CR such that at least one of the rollers  260  engages the substantially cylindrical roll CR and such that the roll support member  258  is disposed between the surface S and a portion of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. More particularly, the rollers  260  and the roll support member  258  are cooperatively configured such that the roll support member  258  and at least one of the rollers  260  engages the substantially cylindrical roll CR between the surface S and a horizontal center line CL H  of the substantially cylindrical roll CR. This arrangement allows the roll support member  258  and/or the at least one roller  260  to transmit a vertical force to the substantially cylindrical roll CR as the vehicle  280  moves in a horizontal direction along the surface S. 
     The roller assembly  230  can be moved relative to the adapter  210  between a first position ( FIG. 4 ) and a second position ( FIG. 5 ). When the roller assembly  230  is in its first position, the bottom portion of the frame  250  and/or or the lower-most roller  260  is spaced apart from the surface S by a first distance d 1 . When the roller assembly  230  is in its second position, the bottom portion of the frame  250  and/or or the lower-most roller  260  is spaced apart from the surface S by a second distance d 2 , which is less than the first distance d 1 . In the second position, the device  201  is configured to unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR, as described detail herein. In some embodiments, for example, the second distance d 2  can be approximately three-quarters of an inch. In other embodiments, the second distance d 2  can be any distance at which the substantially cylindrical roll CR can be unrolled. 
     As described in more detail herein, the height and/or position of the roller assembly  230  can be adjusted using any suitable mechanism, such as, for example, a pulley system, electric motor or the like. Although shown as height adjustment, the roller assembly  230  can also be configured to move relative to the adapter  210  in a horizontal direction (e.g., side to side), in an angular direction (e.g., pitch) or the like. 
     The height adjustment mechanism  265  includes a lever  276  configured to control the height of the roller assembly  230 . The lever  276  has a first position ( FIG. 4 ) and a second position ( FIG. 5 ) corresponding to the first position of the roller assembly  230  and the second position of the roller assembly  230 . Accordingly, when the lever  276  is in its first position, the roller assembly  230  is raised. When the lever  276  is in its second position, the roller assembly  230  is in close proximity to the floor and is configured to unroll the substantially cylindrical roll CR. 
     To move the lever  276  from its first position to its second position, the lever  276  is moved in the direction shown by the arrow EE in  FIG. 5 . This causes the roller assembly  230  to move with respect to the adapter  210  into its second position, in close proximity to the floor, as described above. Similarly, to move the lever  276  from its second configuration to its first configuration, the lever  276  is moved in the direction substantially opposite the direction shown by the arrow EE. This causes the roller assembly  230  to move with respect to the adapter  210  into its first position. 
       FIGS. 10 and 11  show various portions of a rolling and/or unrolling device  301  (referred to herein as the device  301 ) according to an embodiment. As described herein, the device  301  can be coupled to a vehicle  380  and used to move, roll and/or unroll a substantially cylindrical roll (not shown in  FIGS. 10-18 ) along a surface, such as a floor, rooftop, field or the like. The vehicle  380  can be any device of the types shown and described herein for carrying and/or moving people and/or objects. The substantially cylindrical roll (or object) can be any substantially cylindrical object of the types shown and described herein. 
     The rolling and/or unrolling device  301  includes a frame assembly  300 , a set of rollers  360  coupled to the frame assembly  300 , and a height adjustment mechanism  365 . The frame assembly  300  includes a vehicle coupling portion  310  and a roller portion  330 . The vehicle coupling portion  310  can be removably coupled to the front portion of the vehicle  380 . The vehicle coupling portion  310  includes a first (or upper) coupling frame member  311 , a second (or lower) coupling frame member  314  and a third (or central) coupling frame member  322 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 12-14 , the first coupling frame member  311  includes two protrusions  313  and two telescoping portions  326 . The protrusions  313  collectively define a channel  312  configured to receive a portion of a mounting protrusion or ridge  383  disposed on the top portion of the vehicle  380  (see e.g.,  FIG. 11 ). In this manner, when the frame assembly  300  is coupled to the vehicle  380 , the engagement between the mounting protrusion  383  and the channel  312  limits movement of the frame assembly  300  relative to the vehicle  380 . The two telescoping portions  326  are slidably received within the third coupling frame member  322  (see e.g.,  FIG. 11 ). In this manner the height or distance between the first coupling frame member  311  and the second coupling frame member  322  can be adjusted, as shown by the arrow FF in  FIG. 11 , to accommodate vehicles having different styles and/or sizes of mounting protrusions. The first coupling frame member  311  can be maintained in a fixed position by a pair of lock screws (or T-bolts)  323 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 15-17 , the second coupling frame member  314  includes two bumper mounts  327  and two sliding portions  328 . Note that  FIG. 10  does not show the second coupling frame member  314 . Each of the bumper mounts  327  is configured to be received within a bumper channel  382  defined by a bumper  381  of the lower portion of the vehicle  380  (see e.g.,  FIGS. 10 and 15 ). Each of the bumper mounts  327  includes a clamp assembly  315  (only one clamp assembly is shown in  FIG. 15 ) such that the bumper mounts  327  can be coupled within the bumper channel  382 . In this manner, when the frame assembly  300  is coupled to the vehicle  380 , the engagement between the bumper mounts  327  and the bumper channel  382  limits movement of the frame assembly  300  relative to the vehicle  380 . 
     Each of the clamp assemblies  315  includes a clamp boss  316 , a clamp member  318  and a fastener  320 . The clamp boss  316  is fixedly coupled to (e.g., welded to) the bumper mount  327 , and defines an opening  317 . As shown in  FIG. 17 , the clamp member  318  is a C-shaped channel that can move relative to the bumper mount  327 . In particular, the clamp member  318  defines a threaded opening  319 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the fastener  320  is disposed through the opening  317  of the clamp boss  316  and is threaded into the threaded opening  319  of the clamp member  318 . When the bumper mount  327  is disposed within the bumper channel  382  (see e.g.  FIG. 16 ), the fastener  320  can be tightened to draw the clamp member  318  against the side of the vehicle  380  to secure the bumper mount  327  within the bumper channel  382 . 
     Each sliding portion  328  is slidably received within the third coupling frame member  322  (see e.g.,  FIG. 18 ). In this manner the width (or distance) between the bumper mounts  327  can be adjusted, as shown by the arrow GG in  FIG. 15 , to accommodate vehicles having different bumpers, styles and/or sizes. The sliding portions  328  can be maintained in a fixed position within the third coupling frame member  322  by any suitable mechanism. 
     Each sliding portion  328  is movably coupled to the corresponding bumper mount  327 . More particularly, as shown in  FIG. 15 , each sliding portion  328  is coupled to the corresponding bumper mount  327  by a hinge  321  (only one hinge  321  is shown in  FIG. 15 ). In this manner the width (or distance) and/or the angle between the bumper mounts  327  can be adjusted, as shown by the arrow HH in  FIG. 15 , to accommodate vehicles having different bumpers, styles and/or sizes. In some embodiments, the portion of the bumper mount  327  that engages the portion of the sliding portion  328  can be beveled, rounded and/or chamfered to limit the range of angular motion of the bumper mounts  327  relative to the sliding portions  328 . Similarly, in some embodiments, the portion of the sliding portion  328  that engages the portion of the bumper mount  327  can be beveled, rounded and/or chamfered. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , the third coupling frame member  322  includes two mounting tabs  324 , and defines two threaded openings  329  that receive the lock screws (or T-bolts)  323  to maintain the first coupling frame member  310  in a fixed location relative to the third coupling frame member  322 . Each mounting tab  324  defines a slot through which an adjustment fastener  325  can be disposed (see e.g.,  FIG. 11 ). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the third coupling frame member  322  is adjustably coupled to the roller portion  330  of the frame assembly  300 . More particularly, the third coupling frame member  322  is coupled to the lower portion of the roller portion  330  by a hinge  338 . The third coupling frame member  322  is coupled to the upper portion of the roller portion  330  by the two adjustment fasteners  325 , which can be threaded into the openings  336 . Note that the third coupling frame member  322  is not shown as being coupled to the upper portion of the roller portion  330  by the two adjustment fasteners  325  in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . In use, the angular orientation of the roller portion  330  relative to the vehicle coupling portion  310 , as shown by the arrow II in  FIG. 11 , can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the two adjustment fasteners  325 . In this manner, the angle of the roller portion  330  relative to the surface upon which the cylindrical roll is disposed can be adjusted. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10 ,  11  and  19 , the roller portion  330  of the frame assembly  300  includes a slide frame  332  and a roller frame  350  that is slidably coupled to and/or mounted within the slide frame  332 . The slide frame  332  is coupled to vehicle coupling portion  310 , and more particularly, the third coupling frame member  322 , by the hinge  338  and the two adjustment fasteners  325 , as described above. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 19-21 , the slide frame  332  includes a mounting portion  333 , a first slide member  340 , a second slide member  342 , a first cross brace  335  and a second cross brace  337 . The mounting portion  333  includes a mounting protrusion  334  configured to be coupled to a portion of the height adjustment mechanism  365  (see e.g.,  FIG. 10 ). In this manner, the height adjustment mechanism  365  can be coupled to the roller portion  330  of the frame assembly  300 . 
     The first slide member  340  defines a slot  341 , and the second slide member  342  defines a slot  343 . The slot  341  receives the protrusion  352  of the roller frame  350 , and the slot  343  receives the protrusion  354  of the roller frame  350 . Similarly stated, the slot  341  and the slot  343  cooperatively and slidably receive portions of the roller frame  350  such that the roller frame  350  can translate relative to the slide frame  332 . 
     First slide member  340  is coupled to the second slide member  342  by the first (or upper) cross brace  335  and the second (or lower) cross brace  337 . The first cross brace  335  defines the threaded openings  336  within which the adjustment fasteners  325  can be threadedly coupled, as described above. The second cross brace  337  includes a mounting portion to which the hinge  338  can be coupled. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 19 and 22 , the roller frame  350  includes a frame member  351  and a frame member  353  to which and/or between which the rollers  360  are mounted. The frame member  351  is substantially parallel to the frame member  353 . Similarly stated, a center line CL F1  of the frame member  351  is substantially parallel to a center line CL F2  of the frame member  353 . In this manner, the frame member  351  is spaced apart from the frame member  353  by a distance that substantially corresponds to the length of the rollers  360 . 
     The frame member  351  includes a linear portion and a contoured portion. The frame member  353  includes a linear portion  353 ′ and a contoured portion  353 ″. The contoured portion  353 ″ of the frame member  353  can be seen, for example, in  FIG. 22  (since  FIG. 22  is a side view, only the frame member  353  is shown). A first subset of the rollers  360  (particularly, rollers  360   g ,  360   h ,  360   i  and  360   j ) are coupled to and/or between the linear portion of the frame member  351  and the linear portion  353 ′ of the frame member  353 . Accordingly, the axes of rotation of the subset  360 ′ the rollers  360  is linearly aligned. A second subset of rollers (particularly, rollers  360   a ,  360   b ,  360   c ,  360   d ,  360   e  and  360   f ) are coupled to and/or between the contoured portions of the frame members  351 ,  353 . In this manner, the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  360  (e.g.,  360   b ,  360   c  and  360   d ) can be non-linearly aligned. Similarly stated, the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  360  can define a curved surface. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the contoured portion  353 ′ and/or the curved surface defined by the axes of rotation of at least three of the rollers  360  can substantially correspond to diameter of the substantially cylindrical roll. 
     The rollers  360  can each be any suitable roller (e.g., a cylindrical roller having an outer “roller” member that rotates about a spindle). In particular, the rollers  360  can have different sizes (e.g., diameters) to facilitate engaging a substantially cylindrical roll. In some embodiments, the roller  360   a  can have a nominal diameter of 1 inch, the roller  360   b  can have a nominal diameter of 1⅜ inch and the rollers  360   c - 360   j  can have a nominal diameter of 1⅞ inch. 
     A roller  361  is coupled to the rear portion of the roller frame  350 . In use, the roller  361  can roll along the surface upon which the cylindrical roll to be manipulated is disposed. In addition to providing support for the roller portion  330  of the device  301 , the roller  361  can roll along the unrolled portion of the material from the substantially cylindrical roll to assist in maintaining the unrolled portion of the material flat against the surface. In other embodiments, however, the roller portion  330  need not include the roller  361 . 
     In some embodiments, the roller frame  350  can include a deflection plate (not shown) coupled to the bottom portion of the roller frame  350  and/or the slide frame  330 . In use, the deflection plate can deflect the leading edge of the unrolled portion of the material from the substantially cylindrical roll downward towards and/or under the roller  361 . This arrangement can prevent the leading edge of the unrolled portion from curling upwards and obstructing the operation of the device  301 . 
     The roll support member  358  is substantially cylindrical member coupled to the frame  350  and is configured to provide support for the substantially cylindrical roll as it is rolled, unrolled and/or moved along the surface. The roll support member  358  can have any suitable size, such as for example, a diameter of approximately ⅝ inch. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , the height adjustment mechanism  365  includes a lift frame  370 , a cable  375 , a control lever  376 , a pulley  356  and a pulley  374 . The lift frame  370  includes a boom  373  coupled to the vehicle  380  and the frame assembly  300  by a first support member  371  and a second support member  372 , respectively. The control lever  376  is pivotably coupled to the boom  373 . A first end portion of the cable  375  is coupled to the control lever  376 . The second end portion of the cable  375  is disposed about the pulley  374 , around the pulley  356  (which is coupled to the roller frame  350 ) and is coupled to the boom  373 . 
     In use, the height adjustment mechanism  365  can be used to move the roller frame  350  within and/or relative to the slide frame  330 . In particular, the roller frame  350  can be raised and/or lowered relative to the surface by moving the control lever  376 , as shown by the arrow JJ. The movement of the control lever  376  causes the cable  375  to move, thereby producing a force on the pulley  356  to move the roller frame, as shown by the arrow KK. In some embodiments, the control lever  376 , the boom  373  and/or the first support member  371  can include detents and/or other locking mechanisms to limit the movement of the control lever  373  (and therefore the roller frame  350 ). 
     When the roller frame  350  is in the “lowered” position, the roller  361  can contact the surface, while the rollers  360  are spaced apart from the surface. In this manner, as described above, the roller portion  330  of the frame  300  and the rollers  360  will not scrape, contact and/or scratch the surface and/or the unrolled portion of the substantially cylindrical roll when the device  301  is used to move, roll and/or unroll the substantially cylindrical roll along the surface. 
     The device  301  can be used to move, roll and/or unroll any suitable substantially cylindrical roll, as described above. For example, in certain situations, the device  301  can contact a substantially cylindrical roll such that at least one of the rollers  360  (e.g., roller  360   a , roller  360   b  or any of the rollers coupled to and/or between the contoured portions of the frame members  351 ,  353 ) contacts an outer surface of the substantially cylindrical roll along a contact portion, similar to the contact portion CPa shown and described above with reference to  FIG. 2 . In certain situations, the device  301  can contact a substantially cylindrical roll such that at least one of the rollers  360  (e.g., roller  360   a , roller  360   b  or any of the rollers coupled to and/or between the contoured portions of the frame members  351 ,  353 ) contacts the substantially cylindrical roll at a location between the surface and a horizontal center line of the substantially cylindrical roll, as described above with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 3 . 
     Although the devices are shown and described herein as including at least one roller that contacts the substantially cylindrical roll at a location between the surface and a horizontal center line of the substantially cylindrical roll (i.e., the “lower half” of the roll), in other embodiments, a device can include at least one roller that contacts the substantially cylindrical roll at a location between the top of the substantially cylindrical roll and a horizontal center line (i.e., the “upper half”). Although the devices are shown and described herein as being used to unroll and/or distribute the material from a substantially cylindrical roll, in some embodiments device can be used “roll up” a material (e.g., to take up a carpet from a surface). For example,  FIG. 23  is schematic illustration of a side view of a roller assembly  401  for rolling up a carpet from a surface S into and/or about a roll CR. The roller assembly  401  can be coupled to a vehicle (not shown in  FIG. 23 ). The roller assembly  401  can be coupled directly to the vehicle, a vehicle coupling frame and/or an adapter, such as those used in the embodiments described above. 
     The roller assembly  401  includes a frame  400 , a roll support member  458  and a set of rollers  460 . The rollers  460  are coupled to the frame  400  such that the rollers  460  can rotate with respect to the frame  400  and the roll CR. The roll support member  458  of the roller assembly  401  is configured to guide the roll CR and/or exert a downward force on the roll CR as the roller assembly  401  is moved in a direction shown by the arrow LL in  FIG. 23 . In some embodiments, the carpet support member  458  is spring-loaded such that as the unrolled portion UR of the material is added to (or “rolled onto”) the roll CR, the distance between the surface S to roll support member  458  increases. This arrangement allows the carpet support member  458  to continuously exert a downward force on the roll CR as the roll CR is rolled up. In other embodiments, the roll support member  458  can include one or more rollers to provide rolling contact with the roll CR. In yet other embodiments, the roller assembly  401  need not include a roll support member  458 . 
     In use, when the roller assembly  401  is moved in a direction shown by the arrow LL in  FIG. 23 , the roll CR rotates in the direction shown by the arrow MM in  FIG. 23  and the rollers  460  rotate in the direction shown by the arrow NN in  FIG. 23 . Moreover, at least one of the rollers  460  contacts the outer surface of the roll CR at a location between the top of the roll CR and a horizontal center line CL H  defined by the roll CR. As the roll CR rotates, the roll support member  458  can exerts a downward force on the roll CR. The combination of the movement of the carpet roll CR and the guidance and/or downward force on the roll CR causes the unrolled portion UR of the material to be added to the roll CR in a controlled and/or uniform manner. 
     While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Where methods described above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, the ordering of certain events may be modified. Additionally, certain of the events may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performed sequentially as described above. Where illustrations shown and described above indicate certain components arranged in certain positions and/or orientations relative to other components, the arrangement of components may be modified. 
     Although the vehicles shown, described and referenced herein are described primarily as being industrial vehicles and/or scooters, any of the vehicles shown, described and/or referenced herein can be any device for carrying and/or moving people and/or objects. A vehicle to which the rolling and/or unrolling devices described herein can be coupled can be either a “motorized” vehicle or a “manual” (i.e., human-powered) vehicle. Similarly stated, a vehicle can include a machine to convert stored energy into motion (e.g., an electric motor, a pneumatic or hydraulic motor, an engine, fuel cell, pneumatic powered motor, fluid machine), or can include a manual mechanism requiring human force to produce motion. Examples of “motorized” vehicles to which the rolling and/or unrolling devices described herein can be coupled include industrial utility carts, scooters, forklifts or the like. Examples of “manual” vehicles to which the rolling and/or unrolling devices described herein can be coupled include pedal vehicles, manual pallet movers or the like. 
     Although the vehicle  180  is shown as being a wheeled-vehicle, in other embodiments, the vehicle  180  can have any suitable mechanism for moving move along the surface S. For example, in some embodiments, a vehicle to which the rolling and/or unrolling devices described herein can be coupled can be a tracked vehicle. 
     Although the substantially cylindrical roll or objects that are acted upon by the rolling and/or unrolling devices described herein are described primarily as being carpet rolls, the rolling and/or unrolling devices described herein can be used to roll any substantially cylindrical object. In some embodiments, the substantially cylindrical object can be a roll of material that is to be unrolled and/or distributed over a surface. The material to be unrolled can be, for example, carpet, floor covering, roofing material, fabric, vinyl, paper, sod or the like. In other embodiments, the substantially cylindrical object can be an object that is not unrolled or distributed, such as for example, a barrel, a shipping tube, drainage pipes or the like. 
     In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus can be used to unroll and/or install any material stored on substantially cylindrical rolls (not just carpet). For example, the apparatus can be used to unroll and/or install subflooring, plastic sheets, tarps, and/or the like. 
     Although the substantially cylindrical rolls are shown and described herein as being substantially similar, the devices and methods described herein can be used to roll, unroll, rotate and/or move objects having any suitable shape along a surface. For example, the devices shown herein can be used to roll, unroll, rotate and/or move an object having an oval, oblong and/or non-circular cross-sectional shape. 
     Although the rollers are shown and described above as being primarily cylindrical rollers, in other embodiments a device can include any suitable type of roller. For example in some embodiments, a rolling and/or unrolling device can include a substantially spherical roller. In other embodiments, a rolling and/or unrolling device can include one or more rollers having a tapered and/or conical shape. Tapered and/or conical rollers can be used, for example on opposing ends of a roll to ensure that the roll is rolled, unrolled and/or moved along the surface in a straight and/or uniform manner. 
     Although the height adjustment mechanism  365  is shown and described above as including a pulley and cable system, in other embodiments, a height adjustment mechanism can include any suitable mechanism for moving a roller frame (e.g., a hydraulic system and/or the like). 
     Although the devices shown and described above include a set of rollers (e.g., rollers  360 ) that rotate when an external force from the substantially cylindrical roll is applied thereto, in other embodiments, a roller assembly can include one or more rollers coupled to an external device configured to cause the rollers to rotate. For example, in some embodiments, a roller assembly can include an electric motor, hydraulic motor, pneumatic motor or the like operably coupled to one or more rollers. In use, the user can actuate the motor to cause the rollers to roll in a predetermined direction and/or at a predetermined speed. In this manner, the motorized rollers can impart a rotational force on the carpet roll, thereby assisting the apparatus in rolling up and/or unrolling the carpet roll. 
     Although various embodiments have been described as having particular features and/or combinations of components, other embodiments are possible having a combination of any features and/or components from any of embodiments where appropriate. For example, the roller portion  330  shown and described above can include the rollers  360  mounted thereto in a manner that produces one or more contact portions with a substantially cylindrical roll similar to the contact portions described above with reference to device  101 .