Abstract: A conveyor segment for use in a train of such conveyor segments in high wall mining is provided with at least one hook located and at least one coupling element, wherein the hook and the coupling element are suited for coupling, wherein the hook is moveable between an open position and a closed position, and the conveyor segment is provided with locking means for securing the hook in a closed position. An assembly includes at least two such conveyor segments. A method of coupling of such conveyor segments includes bringing the hook of a first conveyor segment in contact with a coupling element of second conveyor segment. A method of releasing such conveyor segments includes urging two coupled conveyor segments together while moving the hook from the closed position to the open position.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for moving a mine conveyor segment (2, 3) between a first position in line with a train of conveyor segments and a second storage position out of line with the train of conveyor segments, comprising: a segment holder (9), and a guide (8) for guiding the movement of the segment (2, 3) between the first and the second position, wherein the apparatus is connectable to a device (102) for manipulating the train of conveyor segments such that the segment holder (9) is at least partially movable independent from the train manipulating device (102). The handling of the conveyor segments (2, 3) in the first position is not decisive for the status of the apparatus according the present invention, and therefore the handling of the segments outside the first position can coincide (overlap) with the operating of the launch platform.

Abstract: The invention relates to a conveyor segment for use in a train of conveyor segments for high wall mining, comprising: conveyor means for transporting mined material from and to opposite adjacent conveyor segments in a train of conveyor segments (1), and a transmission for transmitting power from and to opposite adjacent conveyor segments in a train of conveyor segments. The invention further relates to driving means (31). Moreover, the invention relates to an assembly of a conveyor segment and driving means, and to a train of conveyor segments. Further, the invention relates to a launching platform (30), and to a method for high wall mining.

Abstract: The invention relates to a guide frame for use in high wall mining to be located between a launching apparatus and the entrance of a shaft (3) in a high wall (22) and adapted to guide conveyor segments (4) between the launch unit and the shaft, comprising a substantial horizontal supporting guide (5) for supporting the conveyor segments (4). The invention also relates to a method for high wall mining comprising the steps: arranging a launch unit opposite a location of a high wall wherein a shaft is to be excavated, excavating the shaft by a cutter head; and inserting conveyor segments as the cutter head progresses into the high wall.

Abstract: The invention relates to a conveyor segment for use in a train of conveyor segments for high wall mining, comprising: conveyor means for transporting mined material from and to opposite adjacent conveyor segments in a train of conveyor segments (1), and a transmission for transmitting power from and to opposite adjacent conveyor segments in a train of conveyor segments. The invention further relates to driving means (31). Moreover, the invention relates to an assembly of a conveyor segment and driving means, and to a train of conveyor segments. Further, the invention relates to a launching platform (30), and to a method for high wall mining.

Abstract: A conveyor unit for a high wall mining system; a mining system employing a train of such units. The conveyor units are pushed in tandem into the mine. The system contemplates a motor mounted on a cutter at the head of the train; through a series of shafts and clutches, serially through the train of conveyor units, rotation power is transferred mechanically from the motor to turn the conveyor belts of the individual units. The mining system includes a preferred coupling/clutch apparatus and a launch vehicle for adding conveyor units to the train which has the ability to start the rotation of the conveyor belt on the new unit as it is added.

Abstract: A conveyor unit for a high wall mining system; a mining system employing a train of such units. The conveyor units are pushed in tandem into the mine. The system contemplates a motor mounted on a cutter at the head of the train; through a series of shafts and clutches, serially through the train of conveyor units, rotation power is transferred mechanically from the motor to turn the conveyor belts of the individual units. The invention includes a preferred coupling/clutch apparatus and a launch vehicle for adding conveyor units to the train which has the ability to start the rotation of the conveyor belt on the new unit as it is added.

Abstract: A conveyor unit for a high wall mining system; a mining system employing a train of such units. The conveyor units are pushed in tandem into the mine. The system contemplates a motor mounted on a cutter at the head of the train; through a series of shafts and clutches, serially through the train of conveyor units, rotation power is transferred mechanically from the motor to turn the conveyor belts of the individual units. The invention includes a preferred coupling/clutch apparatus and a launch vehicle for adding conveyor units to the train which has the ability to start the rotation of the conveyor belt on the new unit as it is added.