Abstract: An apparatus and method for clearing material from one location to a pile at another wherein a trolley member with a winch is suspended below and supported by a track which in turn is supported on a moving platform such as a drilling platform or a barge. The winch member by means of the usual lifting cable is connected to a material confining member which also is connected to a drag line cable. Movement of the trolley member over the tracks by means of the drag line will cause the material confining member to collect the material. A subsequent lifting of the lift cable as well as operation of the drag line will allow the material to be elevated and placed on a rubble pile at the side of a channel. In a preferred manner, the apparatus and method of this invention is especially suited for use in clearing ice from a channel which is previously cut by ice cutters also associated with the moving platform which carries the clearing apparatus.

Abstract: A continuing mining machine wherein a crusher is placed inboard of the machine and has a dipper machanism as well as a loading chute. The dipper is of a twin handle type so that it can straddle a feeder chute thus affording a wide area for excavating. The placement of the crusher in a central location within the machine allows for stability and obviates the need for swivelling of the crusher during operation of the machine.