Abstract: A mobile support system for an underground mine brattice curtain which extends the ventilation control of a conventional line brattice. Three embodiments are disclosed for the support system utilizing different fulcrums. In the preferred embodiment, the support's fulcrum is made up of two identical spaced semicircular skid plates which engage the floor and rockably support a first inclined rigid beam. This first beam is pivotally attached to a cantilevered generally horizontal roof engaging upper support at its inby side and has a foot engaging section on its outby side. A second rigid beam extends upwardly from the first beam towards the outby side of the upper support and is pivotally attached to the first beam. The other end of the second beam is a free end which can engage an indexing member on the lower outby end of the upper support. An impervious air curtain depends from the upper support along its length and along with the upper support can be moved to engage the roof.

Abstract: A slideboard for underground mine face ventilation which acts as an extension of a line brattice. When used, the slideboard is advanced towards the working face of the mine to provide an inlet for clean air and an outlet for exhausting gases laden with dust particles. The slideboard has a frame supported on and slideable with respect to the ground as it is advanced along with a continuous mining machine. At the upper portion of the slideboard frame are a series of halflooped hoses which provide a flexible seal with the roof. The main supporting frame is rigid and is formed by a series of vertical and horizontal members whose narrower edges face into the air stream to reduce air friction and increase rigidity. Near the center of the slideboard a rib strut and outrigger provide lateral support and a sliding surface and pivot point. The base of the slideboard is trapezoidal for structural reinforcement; and a plywood gusset in the panel place provides additional reinforcement.