Abstract: A direct engagement drive system [108] for a tripper conveyor system is disclosed. The drive system [108] comprises lead [140?] and follow [140?] cogwheels, each driven by a programmable logic controller [108q] and variable frequency drive-controlled electric motor [108a]. The torque applied to each of the lead [140?] and follow [140?] cogwheels varies as a function of loading experienced by the cogwheels [140] and as a function of the location of the cogwheels [140] relative to a gap [159] or other discontinuity in a cog rail [150] provided on a conveyor [110]. A process for moving a tripper [100] along a conveyor [110] is also disclosed. Other mobile conveying device such as mobile hoppers, maintenance vehicles, stacking machines, conveying devices, or cranes may employ the drive systems [108] shown and described.

Abstract: A direct engagement drive system [108] for a tripper conveyor system is disclosed. The drive system [108] comprises lead [140?] and follow [140?] cogwheels, each driven by a programmable logic controller [108q] and variable frequency drive-controlled electric motor [108a]. The torque applied to each of the lead [140] and follow [140] cogwheels varies as a function of loading experienced by the cogwheels [140] and as a function of the location of the cogwheels [140] relative to a gap [159] or other discontinuity in a cog rail [150] provided on a conveyor [110]. A process for moving a tripper [100] along a conveyor [110] is also disclosed. Other mobile conveying device such as mobile hoppers, maintenance vehicles, stacking machines, conveying devices, or cranes may employ the drive systems [108] shown and described.