Abstract: A mechanism is described for the transport of an object across relatively level surfaces as well as to ascend and descend stairways. This mechanism is provided with a frame and a pair of wheels on each side of the frame for supporting the same above a surface. Furthermore, a climbing chain with lugs is associated with each wheel on the frame; these chains being inclined at an angle from the level to approximate the average pitch of stairs to be encountered. At least one of each of the wheels on each side of the frame is provided with mechanism for raising or lowering the same whereby the frame is maintained in a level orientation during ascent or descent of the stairs.The mechanism is described particularly with respect to a wheel chair for handicapped persons. Two principal embodiments are disclosed: one in which the wheel chair is powered by the occupant; and the other wherein the wheel chair is powered by electrical or other corresponding power means.

Abstract: A machine for mining hard material in-situ between adjacent auger holes in thin seams is disclosed which is suitable for being drivingly connected to a conventional mining apparatus, particularly an augar mining apparatus. The mining machine includes a rotating cutting apparatus with a longitudinal axis roughly parallel to the longitudinal axis of the auger holes. The rotating cutting machine is used for mechanically contacting and dislocating hard material in-situ between adjacent auger holes in thin seams. A power operated system is drivingly connected to the cutting apparatus for generating a cutting motion during the in-cutting operation. A guiding system is provided for maintaining the cutting apparatus in mechanical contact with hard material in-situ between the adjacent auger holes. In one embodiment of the invention a means are provided for collecting dislocated material which is transported from the position at which the material is mined to a remote location for deposit.

Abstract: A method of reclaiming a highwall or sharp cliff like exposure mining site. The method includes the steps of placing a first series of directional charges at preselected locations in each of the auger, longwall or deep mine entry holes proximate the opening of the hole on the face of the highwall. Directional charges are positioned on the floor of the holes and pointed upward, obviating the need to drill charge placement holes. Such solid placement maximizes the explosive impact on the overburden above the charges thereby creating rubble from the overburden and tearing out sections of the in-situ material separating the holes. In one embodiment, a further series of charges is detonated at a preselected interval in time and depth from the detonation of the first series of directional charges to provide a synergistic explosive effect to accomplish the reclamation process.

Abstract: A process for the manufacture of patterned urea thermoplastic molding compound preforms is disclosed where such preforms are suitable for the compressive thermocasting of buttons containing cast holes and displaying an undistorted and consistent pattern. The process utilizes commercially produced molding compound, pigment, adhesives, crystalligerous material plus water which are united to form pliable, self-adhesive aggregates of various colors or hues. These masses are volumetrically measured and/or formed and then assembled in various specific arrangements. This mass is then contained and compressed to expel excess air and cause adhesion of the constituents. The mass is then extruded to a consistently patterned soft rod of a specific diameter. The rod is subsequently sliced to a specific thickness and weight and then dried prior to shipment.

Abstract: A machine for mining hard material in-situ between adjacent auger holes is disclosed which is suitable for being drivingly connected to a conventional mining apparatus, particularly an auger mining apparatus. The mining machine includes cutting apparatus for mechanically contacting and dislocating hard material in-situ between adjacent auger holes. A power operated system is drivingly connected to the cutting apparatus for generating a cutting motion during the in-cutting operation. A guiding system is provided for maintaining the cutting apparatus in mechanical contact with hard material in-situ between the adjacent auger holes. In one embodiment of the invention a collection bin collects the dislocated material which is transported from the position at which the material is mined to a remote location for deposit.