Including Three Relatively Movable Interconnected Wheel Or Track Equipped Vehicles Patents (Class 198/303)
  • Patent number: 11788412
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for recovering a continuous miner arrangement from a tunnel. The system includes a coupler for coupling the continuous miner arrangement to a pulling apparatus. The pulling apparatus pulls the continuous miner arrangement from the tunnel. Advantageously, the pulling apparatus may pull the continuous miner arrangement from the tunnel, either fully or partially until the continuous miner arrangement may once again retract from the tunnel under its own power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: UNDERGROUND EXTRACTION TECHNOLOGIES PTY LTD.
    Inventors: Michael Mapp, Brian MacDonald
  • Patent number: 11459032
    Abstract: A trailer assembly with improved lateral support structure and steering system control of the axial wheels on a front elongated trailer and a rear elongated trailer to remain in a collinear following configuration to carry elongated loads extending over the extended lengths of the combination of the front elongated trailer and the rear elongated trailer and allow ready turning control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2022
    Assignee: Slingshot Haulage Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Leigh Dehne, Kevin McDonnell
  • Patent number: 11111081
    Abstract: A road barrier transfer machine includes an improved capstan control system that reduces unwanted migration of road barrier spans without requiring inaccurate visual observations and reliance on outdated scripts. The barrier transfer machine includes a moveable chassis, an entry snout, an exit snout, a conveyor system, a capstan system, and the capstan control system. The capstan control system automatically operates the capstan system or provides instructions to an operator of the machine to maintain the tension and compression of a road barrier span within desired ranges to reduce unwanted migration of the span.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: Lindsay Transportation Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Edward Provaznik, Gerrit A. Dyke, Matthew A. Elmore
  • Patent number: 10421107
    Abstract: Roller table apparatus (200; 300) for transporting a metallic product (P) to or from a mill stand, includes: first and second rolls (202a, 202b; 302a, 302b), outboard ends of the rolls are supported by respective outboard bearings and inboard ends of the rolls are supported by respective inboard bearings, such that each of the rolls is rotatable about its longitudinal axis (X1, X2); and at least one adjuster (216; 316a, 316b), movable in use to displace at least one end of the rolls or the respective bearings of the roll so as to adjust an angle (?) of inclination of each of the longitudinal axes of the rolls with respect to a datum (D), thereby to adjust a pass-line height (h1, h2) of the product relative to the datum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: PRIMETALS TECHNOLOGIES, LIMITED
    Inventors: Nigel Denton, Daniel Hague, Stuart Leflay
  • Patent number: 10414595
    Abstract: Various continuous chain conveyors, parts for same (e.g., chain guides, chain drives, etc.), packaging and handling equipment and systems and related methods are disclosed herein. In one form, a chain conveyor comprising a primary continuous chain having a first portion configured to carry objects along a path and a return portion, a motor operably coupled to the primary continuous chain so as to induce movement of the chain, a first sprocket engaging the return portion of the primary continuous chain, wherein movement of the return portion causes the first sprocket to rotate, a second sprocket coupled to the first sprocket by a drive shaft, wherein rotation of the first sprocket causes the second sprocket to rotate, and an auxiliary chain operably coupled to the second sprocket such that rotation of the second sprocket causes movement of the auxiliary chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Cannon Equipment LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Levine, Mark R. Rosa
  • Patent number: 10407244
    Abstract: A mountable construction in the form of a deflection device for a belt for continuously conveying material includes a first support frame arranged in a first direction and a second support frame arranged in a second direction, the support frames being coupleable with each other. First and second belt deflectors are arranged in connection to the support frames, wherein the first belt deflector is arranged substantially vertical and the second belt deflector is arranged substantially horizontal. A connection module couples the second support frame with the first support frame, the connection module being arranged such that the second support frame is coupleable to the first support frame at a variable or different horizontal angle. A method for deflecting a belt is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: SANDVIK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AB
    Inventor: Gerald Kribitz
  • Patent number: 10384882
    Abstract: A material management system and method manages and tracks the progress of excavated material transferred through an excavation site by a conveyer system operating in cooperation with an in-pit crusher and conveyer (IPCC). The material management system distinguishes the material dispensed into the IPCC into identified material batches. To track the identified material batches, the material management system records data regarding the conveyer speed and the conveyer distance associated with the IPCC, as well as possible other data regarding the identified material batches. The material management system processes this to track the indentified material batches along the conveyer route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Friend, Kenneth L. Stratton
  • Patent number: 10272961
    Abstract: A drive system for a vehicle is disclosed. The drive system has a track supported by pulleys; at least one wheel, disposed near an end of the track; and at least one flipper. The at least one flipper has at least one of a flipper track supported by flipper pulleys and a flipper wheel. A diameter of the at least one wheel is larger than a combined diameter of: each of the pulleys of the track and twice a thickness of the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: Robo-Team Defense Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosi Wolf, Elad Levy, Mor Rotbart
  • Patent number: 10071861
    Abstract: A path forming device for forming a part of a series of article conveying passage and opening a path for passing through when a worker crosses the article conveying passage, the path forming device including: a fixed side conveyor device located at a constant height position; a movable side conveyor device; a lifting and lowering function that lifts and lowers the movable side conveyor device; and a linear movement function that linearly moves the movable side conveyor device, wherein the movable side conveyor device is capable of taking: an article conveying posture in which the movable side conveyor device protrudes from the fixed side conveyor device in a cantilever state, and is linearly aligned with the fixed side conveyor at substantially the same height as the fixed side conveyor; and a path opening posture in which a height of the movable side conveyor device is lowered by the lifting and lowering function, the movable side conveyor device is made to move to the fixed side conveyor device by the linea
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: Itoh Denki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Itoh, Tatsuhiko Nakamura, Kosuke Toda
  • Patent number: 9969558
    Abstract: A portable multi-sectioned boom concrete conveyor assembly that includes a feeder conveyor configured to transport a construction material toward a distal end of the feeder conveyor and a main conveyor boom assembly including a plurality of main conveyor boom sections. The plurality of main conveyor boom sections may include a proximal main conveyor boom section and a distal main conveyor boom section that is rotatably coupled to one of the plurality of main conveyor boom sections about a revolution joint, has a second main conveyor belt spanning from a first end of the distal main conveyor boom section to a second end of the distal main conveyor boom section, and is operably configured to independently revolve approximately 360° about the revolution joint. The first and second main conveyor belts are operably configured to transport the construction material toward the second end of the distal main conveyor boom section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: NEXT ERA BELTING, INC.
    Inventor: Walter Bynum
  • Patent number: 9828184
    Abstract: A portable multi-sectioned boom concrete conveyor assembly that includes a feeder conveyor configured to transport a construction material toward a distal end of the feeder conveyor and a main conveyor boom assembly including a plurality of main conveyor boom sections. The plurality of main conveyor boom sections may include a proximal main conveyor boom section and a distal main conveyor boom section that is rotatably coupled to one of the plurality of main conveyor boom sections about a revolution joint, has a second main conveyor belt spanning from a first end of the distal main conveyor boom section to a second end of the distal main conveyor boom section, and is operably configured to independently revolve approximately 360° about the revolution joint. The first and second main conveyor belts are operably configured to transport the construction material toward the second end of the distal main conveyor boom section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Next Era Belting, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Bynum
  • Patent number: 9376260
    Abstract: A conveyor body for conveying mineral material includes a middle section having a first end and a second end, and a first pivot axis passes through the first end of the middle section, and the middle section is arranged to be pivoted around the first pivot axis from an operation position of the conveyor to a transport position and back to the operation position, and a second pivot axis passes through the second end of the middle section to pivot a head section sideways around the second pivot axis from the operation position of the conveyor which head section is connectable to the middle section through the second pivot axis, wherein the middle section includes a top plate, a bottom plate, and vertical side plates which are fixed between the top plate and the bottom plate. A mineral material processing plant is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: Metso Minerals, Inc.
    Inventor: Lauri Saarinen
  • Patent number: 9296566
    Abstract: A conveyor system (10) includes two tracked or wheeled carriages (12); a continuous conveyor belt (16) supported on the carriages (12); an actuator (18) for controlling the relative orientation of the carriages (12); carriage measuring means for measuring either the position of the actuator (18) or the relative orientation of the carriages (12); steering means for steering each carriage (12) while driven forward; distance measuring means for measuring the initial position of a select point on the conveyor system (10) and displacement of the select point from the initial position as the conveyor system (10) is driven forward; recording means for recording the initial position, displacement measurements, and measurements of the carriage measuring means corresponding to each displacement measurement, such that when the conveyor system (10) is driven in reverse, the conveyor system (10) uses the information stored in the recording means to adjust the actuator (18) and cause the conveyor system (10) to follow a si
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Karl Heinz Nikolaus Finatzer
  • Patent number: 9199829
    Abstract: An assembly and a method for lifting a module of a lithography system from its support and a lithography system including such device are provided. The assembly includes a body and a track. The track comprises a ramp. The body is provided with two wheels. The first wheel vertically may extend a distance h further from a central horizontal plane of the body than the second wheel. An axis of the first wheel may be positioned in the horizontal direction at a distance D from an axis of the second wheel. The track may include a first and a second ramp. The first ramp is positioned at a distance D from the second ramp in the horizontal direction and a distance h in the vertical direction. Insertion of the body between the module and the support causes the module to be lifted from the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: MAPPER LITHOGRAPHY IP B.V.
    Inventor: Jerry Johannes Martinus Peijster
  • Patent number: 8985300
    Abstract: A control system is provided for a conveyor bridge with a plurality of segments and equipped with individual traveling gears for the cyclic traveling (moving) on a surface in travel straight ahead and in a curve. The control system follows a process including the steps of: detecting positions of both ends of the segments of a conveyor bridge on terrain; calculating target coordinates for the control of the conveyor bridge; simultaneous switching on of the drives of all traveling gears; synchronously controlling the drives of all traveling gears; during the travel movement, constantly measuring the distance covered by each traveling gear; constantly measuring angular deviations from the straight line between two adjacent segments during the travel movement; providing a lateral slope compensation between the traveling gear and the support frame of each segment; and providing a fine alignment of all segments after reaching the target coordinates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: TAKRAF GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Reiche
  • Patent number: 8875864
    Abstract: A system and method for material handling includes a first portable conveyor for feeding material to a mobile bridge conveyor for the material to be stacked via a stacker until a discharge end of the mobile bridge conveyor is at or within a predetermined distance of a discharge end of the first portable conveyor. The first portable conveyor moves away from the mobile bridge conveyor after the discharge end of mobile bridge conveyor is at or within the predetermined distance of the discharge end of the first portable conveyor. A second portable conveyor that feeds material to the first portable conveyor rotates such that a discharge end of the second portable conveyor is moved towards the mobile bridge conveyor until reaching a feeding position for feeding material to the mobile bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventors: Paul Emerson, Glenn Davis
  • Publication number: 20140284172
    Abstract: A system and method for material handling includes a first portable conveyor for feeding material to a mobile bridge conveyor for the material to be stacked via a stacker until a discharge end of the mobile bridge conveyor is at or within a predetermined distance of a discharge end of the first portable conveyor. The first portable conveyor moves away from the mobile bridge conveyor after the discharge end of mobile bridge conveyor is at or within the predetermined distance of the discharge end of the first portable conveyor. A second portable conveyor that feeds material to the first portable conveyor rotates such that a discharge end of the second portable conveyor is moved towards the mobile bridge conveyor until reaching a feeding position for feeding material to the mobile bridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventors: Paul Emerson, Glenn Davis
  • Patent number: 8770373
    Abstract: A side shifting conveyor is provided for a surface mining operation. The conveyor generally includes conveyor sections and conveyor translation devices. Each conveyor translation device includes a drive operable to move the associated at least one conveyor section in a direction substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction. The conveyor further includes a controller operatively coupled to each drive for controlling operation of the drive and coordinating movement of the conveyor sections. A method for moving a conveyor in a surface mine generally includes sensing that a surface miner operable to deposit material onto the conveyor sections has moved beyond one of the conveyor sections, fixing a position relative to the surface mine of a conveyor translation device associated with one of the conveyor sections, and operating the conveyor translation device to move one of the conveyor sections in a direction substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Joy MM Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Neilson, Michael S. Adamczyk, Joseph J. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 8678166
    Abstract: An articulated discharge end for a conveyor that is positionable adjacent to a moveable receiver includes a frame, having a distal end, configured to bear a discharge end of a conveyor belt at the distal end. The frame has two axes of rotation, whereby the distal end is vertically translatable and laterally rotatable. A guide is disposed near the distal end, and is configured to contact the moveable receiver, whereby motion of the moveable receiver can substantially govern vertical translation and lateral rotation of the distal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Spudnik Equipment Company LLC
    Inventors: Rainer Borgmann, James Yearsley
  • Patent number: 8591146
    Abstract: The present invention relates to various aspects of system and a method for forming a pavement. In one of many aspects, a portable paving mix container containing a paving mix for forming pavement is provided. The portable paving mix container is loaded onto a paving machine. The paving mix from the portable paving mix container is unloaded into a mix unloading section of the paving machine, which distributes and compacts the paving mix on a paving surface. After the unloading of the paving mix, the portable paving mix container is off loaded from the paving machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventors: Robert W. Begley, Dale W. Starry, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8534443
    Abstract: A mobile stacking and reclaiming apparatus includes a moveable bridge, a moveable hopper and a moveable tripper. The moveable bridge has a first end, a second end, and at least one intermediate portion between the first and second ends. The moveable hopper is connected to the moveable bridge. The moveable hopper is moveable relative to the moveable bridge along at least a portion of the moveable bridge. The moveable tripper is also connected to the moveable bridge. The moveable tripper being moveable relative to the moveable bridge along at least a portion of the moveable bridge. A system is also disclosed that includes at least one mobile stacking and reclaiming apparatus adjacent to at least one stacking overland conveyor configured to convey material for stacking material and at least one reclaiming overland conveyor configured to convey material for reclaiming material. A method of providing such systems is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventors: Benjamin Boyce, Glenn Davis
  • Patent number: 8376125
    Abstract: A mobile stacking and reclaiming apparatus includes a moveable bridge, a moveable hopper and a moveable tripper. The moveable bridge has a first end, a second end, and at least one intermediate portion between the first and second ends. The moveable hopper is connected to the moveable bridge. The moveable hopper is moveable relative to the moveable bridge along at least a portion of the moveable bridge. The moveable tripper is also connected to the moveable bridge. The moveable tripper being moveable relative to the moveable bridge along at least a portion of the moveable bridge. A system is also disclosed that includes at least one mobile stacking and reclaiming apparatus adjacent to at least one stacking overland conveyor configured to convey material for stacking material and at least one reclaiming overland conveyor configured to convey material for reclaiming material. A method of providing such systems is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventors: Benjamin Boyce, Glenn Davis
  • Patent number: 8348044
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus is provided that includes a frame and a cross conveyor. The cross conveyor has a moveable belt sized and configured to receive and move material. The cross conveyor is supported by the frame. The frame has a base and a plurality of rotatable members attached to the base. The rotatable members are configured to rotate to move the frame. The frame is sized and configured to be positionable adjacent to a mobile bridge conveyor having a tripper conveyor device such that a portion of the cross conveyor is positionable under an upper end portion of the tripper conveyor device to receive material from the tripper conveyor device and move the material to a storage area or stacking area for stacking the material. The tripper is preferably constrained to the frame of the mobile bridge conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Tebbe, Glenn Davis
  • Patent number: 8276736
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus includes a first conveyor apparatus and a second conveyor apparatus. The first conveyor apparatus is positionable adjacent to a feed conveying device. The first conveyor apparatus is configured to pivot about a position adjacent to the feed conveyor device or move laterally adjacent to the feed conveyor. The second conveyor apparatus is configured to move such that the second conveyor apparatus maintains a position substantially parallel to the first conveyor apparatus when the first conveyor apparatus moves or pivots. In some embodiments, the second conveyor apparatus may also be configured to move along a path so that the second conveyor apparatus is extendable beyond an end of the first conveyor apparatus. The path may be a linear path and may be substantially parallel to the length of the first conveyor apparatus such as a path that extends in a direction that is a few degrees off of being perfectly parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventor: Thomas W. Steele
  • Patent number: 8251199
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus is provided that includes a frame and a cross conveyor. The cross conveyor has a movable belt sized and configured to receive and move material. The cross conveyor is supported by the frame. The frame has a base and a plurality of rotatable members attached to the base. The rotatable members are configured to rotate to move the frame. The frame is sized and configured to be positionable adjacent to a mobile bridge conveyor having a tripper conveyor device such that a portion of the cross conveyor is positionable under an upper end portion of the tripper conveyor device to receive material from the tripper conveyor device and move the material to a storage area or stacking area for stacking the material. The tripper is preferably constrained to the frame of the mobile bridge conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: FLSmidth A/S
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Tebbe, Glenn Davis
  • Publication number: 20120175219
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus is provided that includes a frame and a cross conveyor. The cross conveyor has a moveable belt sized and configured to receive and move material. The cross conveyor is supported by the frame. The frame has a base and a plurality of rotatable members attached to the base. The rotatable members are configured to rotate to move the frame. The frame is sized and configured to be positionable adjacent to a mobile bridge conveyor having a tripper conveyor device such that a portion of the cross conveyor is positionable under an upper end portion of the tripper conveyor device to receive material from the tripper conveyor device and move the material to a storage area or stacking area for stacking the material. The tripper is preferably constrained to the frame of the mobile bridge conveyor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: FLSMIDTH A/S
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Tebbe, Glenn Davis
  • Patent number: 8132659
    Abstract: A conveyor is mounted on a tractor and extends from a hopper at the front of the tractor to an outlet behind the tractor. An agricultural harvester unloading system is operated to deposit grain from the harvester into the hopper of the conveyor. The conveyor is operated to transfer the grain into a cart pulled by the tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Bruce A. Coers, Daniel J. Burke, Ryan P. Mackin
  • Patent number: 8028814
    Abstract: Conveyor apparatus and method are disclosed for continuous haulage of coal or ore in an underground mine, including a plurality of floor-supported frame members held in position by belt tension and further held in position optionally by bolts or pins. The novel holding frame provides rapid and efficient extendable, retractable construction in the mine. The novel continuous haulage system handles larger and heavier pieces of equipment and can be pulled to a different position in an underground mine as a complete unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventors: James J. Szalankiewicz, Scott A. Walter, Alan R. Polka
  • Patent number: 8012281
    Abstract: A feed unit for feeding elastomeric material, extruded by at least one extruder, to at least one user unit, and wherein a variable-length conveyor is supported by a first and a second supporting device located at an input end and an output end of the conveyor respectively; and wherein the first supporting device is connected to the conveyor to allow the conveyor to rotate about a vertical first axis and a horizontal second axis, both crosswise to a travelling direction of the elastomeric material along the conveyor; the second supporting device is extensible vertically and connected to the conveyor by a first releasable joint; and the conveyor is connectable to the user unit by a second releasable joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Marangoni Meccanica S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giorgio Marangoni
  • Patent number: 7949447
    Abstract: A steering system and method are capable of steering a plurality of vehicles arranged in a train with adjacent vehicles pivotally connected to each other for movement about a vertical axis. Each vehicle has a pair of steerable wheels with one pair at one end of the train being a selected leading pair having its steering angle determined by an operator. An electrical control system automatically steers all of the wheels trailing behind the leading pair. Vehicle angle sensors measure intercar angles between adjacent vehicles and provide this information to the control system. An indicator provides the controller with the current distance traveled by the train. Wheel angle sensors provide signals indicative of the current steering angle for each wheel pair. The controller adjusts the actual steering angle for each trailing pair to a desired angle by calculating adjustments based on the measurement inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Prairie Machine & Parts Mfg. (1978) Ltd.
    Inventors: Maurice DeMong, Ashley Debnam
  • Publication number: 20100308641
    Abstract: A conveyor system for an open pit mine may include one or more conveyor lines. The conveyor lines are used to transport material from one location in the mine to another location. The material transported may be a waste material, such as overburden material, or coal. The conveyor lines may move from a first end of the pit to a distal second end. When the conveyor lines reach the second end, they may reverse direction and return towards the first end. During this reversal in direction of travel, equipment may be selectively swapped between the conveyor lines. The conveyor lines may include at least one mobile bridge conveyor. Each mobile bridge conveyor may support one or more conveyors that transport the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: ThyssenKrupp Robins, Inc.
    Inventors: Christof Brewka, Ruben E. Lezius, Martin S. Lurie
  • Publication number: 20080067033
    Abstract: In a movable conveyor belt storage installation including a belt storage means (4), conveyor belt support structures (29) following the belt storage means (4), and a movable takeover car (7) including a deflection means (43) for the conveyor belt and a takeup chute (8) for taking over excavated material, the belt storage means (4) is comprised of at least two segments (13, 20, 22, 26) which are connected with one another so as to be pivotable about an axis extending transversely to the belt running direction and passing through the plane of the floor (31), wherein at least a portion of the support structures (29) are capable of being carried along in or on the takeover car (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: VOEST-ALPINE Materials Handling GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventors: Manfred Fuchs, Simon Curry
  • Patent number: 7284650
    Abstract: To leach the metal, crushed ore must be dumped in relatively thin layers of a height of approx. 5 m to 10 m. A conveying and stacking system, including a movable conveyor belt system, traveling tripper and stacker is used for this. The movable conveyor belt system is formed by a plurality of individual belts, the so-called grasshoppers. Provisions are made in the dumping technology for a high block for the end device in the conveying chain, the stacker with its swingable stacker boom, to always discharge an arc-shaped layer of ore, after which the device moves back by the amount of the next layer to be discharged in an arc-shaped pattern. This process is repeated until the stacker has moved back by the effective length of a grasshopper. Conveying is then stopped, one grasshopper is removed from the conveyor belt system and dumping of the ore is then continued. To enable this technology to be used, the stacker must be provided with a material pickup area, which is as long as a grasshopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: MAN TAKRAF Fördertechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7191888
    Abstract: A movable belt conveyor system for a leach pad for use for sulfidic copper ore, where favorable conditions are to be generated for leaching out the copper by a slight compaction of the ore piled up into a dump for the microbiological leaching technology. The movable belt conveyor system of a length of up to several km is composed of a plurality of smaller belt segments, comprising a tail segment (70), standard segments (711-n) and a head segment (72), as well as a traveling tripper (8). To prevent the loading by these individual components from being excessively compacted by the weight of the device during multiple travel over the dump during the moving process, the belt drives with the driving drum are accommodated in the tail element (70), which is supported on the soil next to the leach pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Man Takraf Fördertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Kahrger, Dieter Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 6926368
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the mining of material from a seam includes a mining apparatus and a self-propelled conveyor capable of advancing or retreating in the seam on its own power and an advancing and steering arrangement for the mining apparatus. The self-propelled conveyor, electric cables and other services for the mining apparatus are protected against roof falls. The power input for the self-propelled conveyor is provided by continuous drive shafts powered at either one or both ends of the conveyor. Alternately, a unique reciprocating conveyor mechanically powered at either one or both ends of the conveyor is provided for conveying of aggregate material. An apparatus for assembling the conveyor and receiving aggregate material is provided at the rear end of the conveyor. A method and apparatus for accurately and precisely navigating the mining machine is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: DM Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Dennis Mraz
  • Patent number: 6688450
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly is for use with a vehicle having a wheel pivotable about an axis and an actuator configured to pivot the wheel. The conveyor assembly includes a carriage connectable with the vehicle and having a wheel pivotable about an axis, a swing axis and a first bearing surface about the swing axis. A carriage steering actuator pivots the carriage wheel about its axis in one direction when the vehicle actuator pivots the vehicle wheel about its axis in an opposing direction. A conveyor connected with the carriage has a second bearing surface engaged about the first bearing surface. Further, a swing actuator rotates the conveyor about the swing axis such that the second bearing surface linearly displaces along a first arcuate path as an actuator end displaces along a second arcuate path, configured such that the bearing surface displacement is greater than the actuator end displacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Blaw-Knox Construction Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Leonard E. Speers, William R. Schwelitz, Robert W. Begley, Terry K. Olson, Ben J. Huisman, Jason P. Wiese, Shane Kruse
  • Patent number: 6588572
    Abstract: A novel transfer conveyor transports material from a feed point to an input section of a main conveyor. The transfer conveyor comprises a feed end, a discharge end, and a conveyance device for conveying material from the feed end to the discharge end. A connector is provided for detachably and rotatably connecting the transfer conveyor to the main conveyor such that the feed end of the transfer conveyor may be moved about the input section of the main conveyor while maintaining a gravity assisted flow of material from the discharge end of the transfer conveyor into an input section of the main conveyor. The connector may be adapted to permit rotation of the transfer conveyor about the input section of the main conveyor at each operation angle of the main conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Highline Mfg. Inc.
    Inventors: Kimball Lischynski, Murray Kosokowsky
  • Patent number: 6422374
    Abstract: A mining conveyor system that advances into a mine behind a continuous mining device. The mining conveyor system has a plurality of conveyance units connected to each other in a train-like fashion. Each conveyance unit conveys mined material to the next conveyance unit in the train until the mined material exits the mine. Each conveyance unit has a conveyance system powered by a first power source and the locomotion system is powered by a second power source. If either power source fails a switching system is utilized to power the portion(s) of the conveyance systems that lack power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Charles E. West
  • Patent number: 6386352
    Abstract: A swing conveyor assembly for use with a base vehicle including a first material conveyor having a discharge location. The swing conveyor assembly comprises a platform supported by a wheel assembly, a linkage assembly adapted to be interconnected between the platform and the base vehicle and a second material conveyor. The linkage assembly is configured to permit free vertical movement over a given range of the platform and wheel assembly relative to the base vehicle. The second material conveyor has a receiving location and is rotatably connected to the platform about a vertical rotation axis. The rotation axis extends through the receiving location and the discharge location when the platform is connected to the base vehicle such that receiving location remains aligned with the discharge location as the second material conveyor is rotated relative to the first material conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Blaw-Knox Construction Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Adrian Baker, William R. Schwelitz, Leonard E. Speers
  • Patent number: 6336545
    Abstract: Single-track and a dual-track conveyor support crawlers are employed in conjunction with a mobile conveyor system. The crawlers comprise rotational coupling between single-track base units and structure link members. The crawlers further comprise a steering subsystem to control relative rotation between the single-track base units and the structure link members. The crawlers comprise translational coupling between the single-track base units and the structure link members, and elevation control subsystems to control the relative vertical position between the single-track base units and the structure link members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Rotec Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Arndt, A. Steven Ledger, Robert F. Oury
  • Patent number: 6283277
    Abstract: A self-propelled, mobile articulated tramming haulage conveyor system includes a continuous series of individual cascading mined material haulage conveyors located over one or more long continuous chain, conveyor system tramming apparatus or flexible crawlers. For negotiation of corners or bends in a borehole, the frame on which the continuous chain, conveyor system tramming system is mounted is flexible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Amvest Systems? Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory W. Smith, Frank N. Kent, William J. Peters
  • Patent number: 6220670
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for mining of aggregate material from a seam includes a mining apparatus and a self-propelled conveyor capable of advancing or retreating in the seam on its own power and advancing and steering arrangement for the mining apparatus. The self-propelled conveyor, the electric cables and other services for the mining apparatus are protected against the roof falls. The power input for the self-propelled conveyor is provided by continuous drive shafts powered at either one or both ends of the conveyor. Alternately, a unique reciprocating conveyor mechanically powered at either one or both ends of is provided for conveying of aggregate material. An apparatus for assembling the conveyor and receiving of aggregate material is provided at the rear end of the conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: DM Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Mraz
  • Patent number: 6085890
    Abstract: A method for forming a plurality of cells of material wherein a relocatable conveyor is located in front of an area in which the plurality cells are to be formed, and a portable conveyor system is disposed to transfer material from the relocatable conveyor to a material stacker. The portable conveyor system and material stacker are thereafter moved with respect to the relocatable conveyor in order to form a second of the plurality of material cells. A number of the portable conveyors of the portable conveyor system are then used to form the last of the plurality of material cells, while at the same time the relocatable conveyor system is being disassembled and moved to a second area wherein one or more additional cells of material are to be formed. In this manner, significant system down time conventionally experienced in moving a conventional shiftable conveyor is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Terranova Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald R. Kelly, George M. Bernard
  • Patent number: 6073745
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable yoke assembly adapted to pivotally connect components of a continuous haulage system designed for use in underground excavation environments. The yoke assembly is vertically adjustable relative to the component it is carried on by selectively securing the assembly to the component through a series vertically aligned openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Long-Airdox Company
    Inventor: Michael S. Cox
  • Patent number: 6006894
    Abstract: A low profile, wide belt mobilized bridge carrier is used in low vein mining operations. The mobilized bridge carrier of the present invention includes a carrier frame that carries the propulsion system and that supports the receiving boom, the discharge boom, the cab assembly and the canopy. The preferred mobilized bridge carrier is track propelled, and includes at least a pair of crawler track assemblies which are actuated by an electrically operated hydraulic motor. The receiving boom and the discharge boom are pinned together and each are pivotally mounted on carrier frame at a main pivot point. The carrier frame is of reinforced construction. The receiving boom and discharge boom of the present invention include low profile side panel assemblies which allow the present mobilized bridge carrier to be used in "low vein" mining applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: CBJ Plating & Machine of Tennessee, Co.
    Inventors: James D. Gibbs, Gary S. Smith
  • Patent number: 5997101
    Abstract: A system for providing utilities and support infrastructure on a continuous basis from the surface to the cutting face of an underground operation. A flexible belt structure system incorporates water supply and discharge lines, power and communication cables, hydraulic supply and return lines, bulk lubrication delivery systems, and belt support structure for underground coal haulage. The system consists of modular components that are added at the surface and connected underground to form a continuous support structure to the working area, such that the infrastructure necessary for the mining operation is expanded or reduced to keep up with the position of the mining face without interruption of operation. The belt structure is mounted on a stationary rail fixed to the roof of the mine and is rolled forward or backwards in the belt entry as the mine advances or retreats, as applicable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Randall D. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5996766
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable yoke assembly adapted to pivotally connect components of a continuous haulage system designed for use in underground excavation environments. The yoke assembly is vertically adjustable relative to the component it is carried on by selectively securing the assembly to the component through a series vertically aligned openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Long-Airdox Company
    Inventor: Michael S. Cox
  • Patent number: 5992941
    Abstract: A conveyor cart for a mining machine is made from readily available components, including conventional golf cart components, and has a maximum height of 20 inches or less (e.g. about 18 inches) so that it can be effectively utilized with a continuous miner for mining ultra thin coal seams. A chassis has side rails with front and rear ends and cross pieces extending between the side rails. A first coupling mechanism, such as an eye bolt, is mounted adjacent the front end, and a second coupling mechanism, such as a pintle hook, mounted adjacent the rear end. A single axle containing a pair of inflatable golf cart wheels extends between the side rails and may be driven by a conventional golf cart transmission and an AC motor. An endless conveyor belt is mounted so that it has a top portion for conveying mined material from the continuous mining machine to the mine mouth, and a bottom portion beneath the top portion, the conveyor belt powered by an electric motor mounted to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Frank Delli-Gatti, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5911300
    Abstract: A flexible mobile conveyor includes a plurality of modular conveyors or conveyor carriages interconnected end-to-end by pivotal joint means to form a train, at least one end of each modular conveyor or carriage telescopically mounted with respect to the pivotal joint means, each pivotal joint means pivotally supported by an intermediate axle with wheels, and a mechanical linkage disposed between the axles in order to maintain a, predetermined position of each intermediate axle with respect to modular conveyors at each horizontal pivot means, in order to maintain relatively accurate tracking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: Dennis Mraz
  • Patent number: 5839564
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable yoke assembly adapted to pivotally connect components of a continuous haulage system designed for use in underground excavation environments. The yoke assembly is vertically adjustable relative to the component it is carried on by selectively securing the assembly to the component through a series vertically aligned openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Long-Airdox Company
    Inventor: Michael S. Cox