Patents Assigned to J.H. Fletcher & Co.
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Patent number: 8025111Abstract: An apparatus assists in preventing the accumulation of debris in a flow path during the formation of a borehole. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a drill head including a drive shaft for driving a drilling element to form the borehole. Preferably, the drilling element includes a passage forming a flow path for debris from the borehole. A carrier positioned adjacent the flow path is connected to at least one agitator connected to the carrier for agitating debris in the flow path. A related method pertains to manufacturing a drill head including an agitator.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2009Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventor: Kerry Hopf
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Patent number: 7819609Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2007Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Publication number: 20100221071Abstract: In one aspect, a system assists an operator in controlling a machine, such as a bolter including a drill head for drilling a borehole in a mine passage having a face and installing a bolt therein, as well as possibly a miner for advancing the mine passage. A controller controls the operation of the machine, and a transmitter transmits to the controller control signals from the operator at a remote location from the borehole. A sensor causes the controller to take action, such as by providing a warning signal or disabling one or more aspects of the machine, if the operator is within a predetermined proximity of the drilling, bolting, or mining operation. Systems and methods pertain to other related aspects of the invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2007Publication date: September 2, 2010Applicant: J. H. FLETCHER & COInventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson
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Patent number: 7721816Abstract: This invention relates to the control of a machine for performing drilling or bolting operation, such as in an underground mine. In one aspect, the invention comprises a system including an input device for manually controlling at least one aspect of the drilling or bolting operation and a controller associated with at least one neutral switch. An actuator actuates the drilling or bolting operation and includes a valve associated with the input device and the neutral switch. The input device is operative for controlling the drilling or bolting operation only when the valve is in a neutral position according to the neutral switch. Related input devices and methods are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2004Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins
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Patent number: 7704018Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7600583Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2008Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7438141Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Publication number: 20080240865Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2006Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: J.H. Fletcher & Co., IncInventors: Gregory Hinshaw, Henry Wilson, Craig Collins, William Kyslinger, William Schwab
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Publication number: 20080240866Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Graig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7428936Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7428935Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7428937Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7416033Abstract: In one aspect, the invention comprises an instrumented drill head for intended use with a drilling machine including a drilling element, such as a drill bit. The drill head includes a case with a rotatable chuck for the drilling element. A first sensor associated with the drill head senses and generates an output signal representative of a first parameter of the drilling operation. A transmitter wirelessly transmits the signal to a receiver associated with a controller. A roof bolting machine including the drill head and a resin inserter is also disclosed, as are related methods of instrumenting a drill head and drilling using an instrumented drill head.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2004Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, William G. Kendall, Jr.
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Patent number: 7407344Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: J. H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7381012Abstract: A module and related methods of use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory E. Hinshaw, Henry E. Wilson, Craig M. Collins, William A. Kyslinger, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 7371009Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for assisting in mounting a wear pad to a drilling machine. A gib is split longitudinally into at least first and second portions creating a channel for receiving the wear pad. A portion of the wear pad may include a tenon, such as a dovetail, corresponding to the channel, or mortise. A fastener may be used to fasten the first and second portions of the gib together. In this configuration, the wear pad may be removed in a longitudinal direction or otherwise by separating the first and second portions of the gib.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2005Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Timothy D. Burgess, Ward D. Morrison
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Patent number: 7350876Abstract: A drilling or bolting unit for selective use with either a vehicle or a panline of a face conveyor associated with a longwall miner or mining machine is disclosed. In one embodiment, the unit comprises a base adapted for engaging the panline and a plurality of receivers. Each receiver may be adapted for receiving one of the pair of forks of the vehicle, such that the unit may be used as either a panline drilling or bolting unit or as a utility drilling or bolting unit with the vehicle apart from the panline. Related methods are also described.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Timothy D. Burgess, William G. Kendall, Jr., David L. Morris, Steven Payne
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Publication number: 20070299546Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2007Publication date: December 27, 2007Applicant: J.H. Fletcher & Co.Inventors: Gregory Hinshaw, Henry Wilson, Craig Collins, William Kyslinger, William Schwab
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Publication number: 20070144781Abstract: In one aspect, the invention comprises an instrumented drill head for intended use with a drilling machine including a drilling element, such as a drill bit. The drill head includes a case with a rotatable chuck for the drilling element. A first sensor associated with the drill head senses and generates an output signal representative of a first parameter of the drilling operation. A transmitter wirelessly transmits the signal to a receiver associated with a controller. A roof bolting machine including the drill head and a resin inserter is also disclosed, as are related methods of instrumenting a drill head and drilling using an instrumented drill head.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2004Publication date: June 28, 2007Applicant: J.H. FLETCHER & CO., INC.Inventors: Gregory Hinshaw, Henry Wilson, William Kendall Jr.
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Publication number: 20070098505Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2006Publication date: May 3, 2007Applicant: J.H. Fletcher & Co., IncInventors: Gregory Hinshaw, Henry Wilson, Craig Collins, William Kyslinger, William Schwab