Contractible Or Foldable Conveyor Section Patents (Class 198/313)
  • Patent number: 7784597
    Abstract: An extendable conveyor apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stationary conveyor section, a movable conveyor section extendable with respect to the stationary conveyor section, and a movement assembly configured to move the movable conveyor section with respect to the stationary conveyor section. The movement assembly comprises a plurality of teeth mounted on a first conveyor section, and a teeth engaging apparatus mounted on a second conveyor section and configured to engage and move the teeth on the first conveyor section with respect to the second conveyor section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Masaba, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Frankl, Clay Crandall
  • Patent number: 7721869
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Superior Highwall Miners, Inc.
    Inventor: Cornelis Wilhelm In 'T Hout
  • Patent number: 7658271
    Abstract: In a movable conveyor belt storage installation including a belt storage means (4), conveyor belt support structures (29) following the belt storage means (4), and a movable takeover car (7) including a deflection means (43) for the conveyor belt and a takeup chute (8) for taking over excavated material, the belt storage means (4) is comprised of at least two segments (13, 20, 22, 26) which are connected with one another so as to be pivotable about an axis extending transversely to the belt running direction and passing through the plane of the floor (31), wherein at least a portion of the support structures (29) are capable of being carried along in or on the takeover car (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Sandvik Mining and Construction G.m.b.H.
    Inventors: Manfred Fuchs, Simon Curry
  • Patent number: 7654378
    Abstract: A conveying device comprising a conveyor bed having a first end and an opposite rear end and a platform rotatably connected to the conveyor bed at the first end. The platform may be rigidly connected to a rotor of the device and the rotor may include a curved roller surface. The platform is preferably substantially offset from a pivot of the rotor. Conveying elements travel over the roller surface to accomplish a smooth extraction or retraction of the conveying elements from within the device. The device is tiltable and may accommodate loading and unloading of luggage into a cargo hold of an aircraft, for instance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: NMC-Wollard, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Canapa
  • Publication number: 20100018835
    Abstract: A belt conveyor comprising a telescopic frame (1), an endless conveyor belt (9) which is supported by idlers (12) connected to the frame (1), a drawing drum (10), and a tilting drum (11), via which the conveyor belt (9) is arranged to run, and an actuator (14) mounted to the frame (1) for changing the length of the frame (1). The frame of the belt conveyor comprises frame blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) installed to each other in a slidable manner and a lattice mechanism (20) installed to them in a pivotal manner to effect a change in the length of the belt conveyor as a result of the operation of the actuator (14). The frame blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) comprise at least one frame pipe (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g), wherein at least one frame block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) comprises a supporting beam (4a, 4b, 4b? 4c, 4d, 4d?, 4e, 4f, 4g) connected to at least one frame pipe (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: Metso Minerals (Tampere) Oy
    Inventors: Petri Kinnunen, Markku Viitasalo, Olavi Kinnunen, Tero Majuri
  • Patent number: 7641035
    Abstract: An out-feed roller support stand having a sturdy, stable base that folds for compact storage. A support mast that telescopes into and is adjustable within the base supports a work support head that includes an adjustable cross bar on which a row of pivoting caster wheels are mounted. An alternative embodiment includes a ramp for guiding sagging ends of work-pieces up onto the caster wheels. Both the height and angle between the adjustable cross bar and floor are adjustable after the position of the support mast has been adjusted in order to position the support head in roughly the correct location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Lee Valley Tools, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robin C. Lee, Steven K. Jones, Scott T. Roger
  • Patent number: 7635254
    Abstract: A mobile pump system includes a wheeled trailer adapted to transport the mobile pump system. Mounted to the trailer are a hydraulic fluid supply system, a power source and an adjustable pipe system that includes a discharge pipe section, an intake pipe section and a swivel section coupled between the intake pipe section and the discharge pipe section. The swivel pipe section allows the discharge pipe section and the intake pipe section to be pivoted independently of each other. Hydraulic cylinders and extensible pivot arms pivot the discharge pipe section and the intake pipe section so that they can be positioned at various angles with respect to the trailer frame. A submersible hydraulic pump is mounted to the intake pipe section and is driven by the power source and hydraulic fluid supply system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Mega Corp, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Kunz, Doug Eligur, Philip Funk
  • Publication number: 20090294246
    Abstract: A conveyor system includes an extension section that slides inwardly and telescopes outwardly of a main section of conveyor. The extension motion is powered by at least one hydraulic ram. The conveyor has a stem that lowers to a loadable height by the retraction of double hydraulic rams upon a steel internal core. The conveyor then lifts vertically in a cantilevered manner upon a vertical ram and then rotates 360 degrees parallel to the plane of a truck bed using a cooperating gear plate and a hydraulic motor with a chain. Paddles push material secured to a chain drive or alternately a belt and the chain drive or belt moves through a series of sprockets or rollers in a continuous manner. The paddles eventually return to their initial location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Richard W. Pogue
  • Patent number: 7584834
    Abstract: A portable conveyor device, and method of operating and storing the portable conveyor device, the device including a base releasably affixed to a support surface and moveable with respect to the support surface, a first conveyor rotatably attached at a first end to the base by an articulating member, and a second conveyor moveably attached to the base by a vertical conveyor elevation device, wherein the first conveyor being configured to move by the articulating member between a first horizontal position supported on the support surface and a second inclined position and being configured to transport items onto the second conveyor, wherein the second conveyor in a first operating position being configured to receive items from the first conveyor and convey items in both a horizontal direction and a vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Gladys L. Wood
  • Patent number: 7513354
    Abstract: A conveying device comprising a chassis and a conveyor bed, the bed connected to the device at a rear pivot and at a lift point, the bed engaging a forward fulcrum or pivot positioned between the rear pivot and the lift point. The bed may be pivotally connected at the forward pivot and at the rear pivot, and the rear pivot may be slidably engaged with the chassis to accommodate height change of the rear pivot. As the conveyor bed is lifted at the lift point which is preferably a pivoting lift point, the bed pivots about the forward pivot and the rear end of the bed is lowered while simultaneously pivoting at the rear pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: NMC-Wollard, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Canapa
  • Publication number: 20090071797
    Abstract: An extendable conveyor apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stationary conveyor section, a movable conveyor section extendable with respect to the stationary conveyor section, and a movement assembly configured to move the movable conveyor section with respect to the stationary conveyor section. The movement assembly comprises a plurality of teeth mounted on a first conveyor section, and a teeth engaging apparatus mounted on a second conveyor section and configured to engage and move the teeth on the first conveyor section with respect to the second conveyor section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Jim Frankl, Clay Crandall
  • Publication number: 20090035110
    Abstract: A vehicle for transport and placement of fill material in trenches and for backfilling. The vehicle features a tiltable hopper connected to a central portion of a chassis which may be tilted to adjust the vehicle's center of gravity. Two conveyors deposit two independent volumes of fill material on or adjacent to a target through the positioning of one conveyor a distance from the hopper further than the other. The speed of the conveyors or the volume of fill material placed thereon may be varied to vary each respective discharged volume of material from each conveyor. The conveyors and hopper may be engaged to the base of the vehicle on a chassis that is rotatable on the base and fluid dispensers may be positioned over each conveyor to dampen the fill material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: James D. Woods, JR.
  • Patent number: 7455173
    Abstract: A portable telescoping stacking conveyor for stockpiling bulk particulate materials includes a primary conveyor frame, a secondary conveyor frame, an undercarriage and a base frame having a king pin for engagement with a tow vehicle. The front end of the primary conveyor frame is pivotally mounted to the base frame. The secondary conveyor frame of the portable telescoping stacking conveyor has a left secondary top chord and a right secondary top chord. The secondary conveyor frame is receivable by the primary conveyor frame and moveable with respect thereto between a retracted position and an extended position. The primary conveyor frame is arranged, configured and adapted to support the secondary conveyor frame only by supporting the left secondary top chord and the right secondary top chord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Fridman, J. Donald Brock
  • Patent number: 7451866
    Abstract: A portable conveying device comprising an inclining base having a conveyor belt, a plurality of articulating conveying elements having powered cargo rollers defining a conveying device transport plane, the conveying elements extendable from and retractable into the base by drive means. The drive means may include a pair of spaced-apart spur gears which have teeth that engage with rack teeth of the conveying elements. The conveying device may include a hollow universal joint having axes of rotation lying substantially in the same plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: NMC-Wollard, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Canapa
  • Patent number: 7448486
    Abstract: An extendable conveyor apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stationary conveyor section, a movable conveyor section extendable with respect to the stationary conveyor section, and a movement assembly configured to move the movable conveyor section with respect to the stationary conveyor section. The movement assembly comprises a plurality of teeth mounted on a first conveyor section, and a teeth engaging apparatus mounted on a second conveyor section and configured to engage and move the teeth on the first conveyor section with respect to the second conveyor section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Masaba, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Frankl, Clay Crandall
  • Patent number: 7428956
    Abstract: An auger assembly transfers particulate material from a source area to a target area using a main auger, an intermediate swing auger and a loading swing auger connected in series with one another. The main auger is supported on a wheeled frame similar to conventional grain augers while the intermediate swing auger is pivotal thereon and the loading swing auger is pivotal on the intermediate swing auger. The inlet hopper of the auger assembly can thus be more easily positioned relative to the main auger for proper alignment with the discharge hopper of a particulate material container even when the discharge hopper is within a confined space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Saskatchewan Ltd
    Inventor: Patrick John Scherman
  • Patent number: 7422096
    Abstract: A conveyor for transporting materials or people from a first location to a second location has an elongated boom having a first end, a second end, a top surface, and a bottom surface; a conveyor mechanism such as an endless belt, chain, or ladder that is operably attached to the elongated boom; and a plank platform operably attached to the boom adjacent to the bottom surface of the boom, wherein the platform is selectively pivotable from the boom and capable of providing a walking surface for the person unloading the conveyor. The platform may additionally or alternatively be at least partially extendible from one end of the elongated boom. The conveyor may be operably attached to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony J. Crookston
  • Patent number: 7374389
    Abstract: A device for unloading a live floor bulk material hauling vehicle which includes a feeder that collects bulk material being dumped from the vehicle by action of the live floor and moves the material onto a conveyor. The conveyor accepts the material from the feeder and conveys it outwardly from the vehicle to a desired location. The conveyor is pivotably attached to the vehicle and can be pivoted to a first position whereby the vehicle can be unloaded by operation of the live floor and the conveyor, and a second position whereby the conveyor is displaced sufficiently from the vehicle that the vehicle can be unloaded by operation of the live floor without operation of the conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Upstate Mulch Products and Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim Wilson
  • Patent number: 7347311
    Abstract: A mechanism is for a foldable vehicle conveyor having an axis, inner and outer sections and a joint connecting the sections, the outer section being pivotable between a deployed position and a folded position at which the outer section is disposed above the inner section. A linkage displaces the outer section between the two positions and includes a drive link pivotable on the inner section and a connector link pivotably connected with the drive link and with the outer section. The linkage moves between a deployed limit position where the drive link centerline extends parallel to the conveyor axis and the connector link centerline extends perpendicularly to the conveyor axis, and a folded limit position where the drive link centerline is generally perpendicular to the conveyor axis and the connector link centerline is generally parallel to and above the conveyor axis. An actuator displaces the linkage between the two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventor: Brian W. Rudge
  • Patent number: 7308968
    Abstract: A transportable conveyer is provided for simultaneous rescue of multiple persons and objects. The conveyer is capable of being stored and transported in a compact folded position. The preferred embodiment is an endless conveyer with three elements: a belt equipped with a plurality of eyes for a hook along the circumferential surface of the belt; a vehicle to transport the belt to a site where rescue is required; and a motor for rotating the belt to raise or lower a load secured to the load affixing means. The belt may be deployed manually or by a powered boom. Hooks, harnesses and bags are used to attach one or more objects of rescue to the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventor: Orville Douglas Denison
  • Publication number: 20070284215
    Abstract: A mechanism is for a foldable vehicle conveyor having an axis, inner and outer sections and a joint connecting the sections, the outer section being pivotable between a deployed position and a folded postion at which the outer section is disposed above the inner section. A linkage displaces the outer section between the two positions and includes a drive link pivotable on the inner section and a connector link pivotably connected with the drive link and with the outer section. The linkage moves between a deployed limit position where the drive link centerline extends parallel to the conveyor axis and the connector link centerline extends perpendicularly to the conveyor axis, and a folded limit position where the drive link centerline is generally perpendicular to the conveyor axis and the connector link centerline is generally parallel to and above the conveyor axis. An actuator displaces the linkage between the two positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Applicant: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: Brian W. Rudge
  • Patent number: 7296676
    Abstract: A system for conveying material is disclosed. The system includes: a hopper having a feed end and a discharge end, wherein the feed end is configured to receive material; and an elongate conveyor downstream from the discharge end, wherein the elongate conveyor is configured to pivot about at least three axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Construction Equipment Company
    Inventors: Roger G. Smith, Jason D. Gerard
  • Patent number: 7273150
    Abstract: A portable screening trommel having a chassis, at least one wheel assembly at a rear portion of the chassis, a hopper for receiving a material, a rotary trommel being chain driven at a discharge end and which receives the material from a feed conveyor beneath the hopper, a first product conveyor extending from a rearward end of the chassis to a forward end and feeding a rotatable stacking conveyor, and a second product conveyor receiving material from within the trommel and being rotatable between an operating position and a traveling position. The stacking conveyor is positioned at the forward end of the chassis and is rotatable between a first operating position and a second traveling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Wildcat Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Fridman, Jerry L. Warlow
  • Patent number: 7267519
    Abstract: An agricultural commodity cart loading conveyor apparatus comprises a conveyor mounted to an agricultural commodity cart. A hopper is pivotally attached to the lower end of the conveyor tube and a hopper conveyor section is mounted along a bottom of the hopper. The hopper pivots from an extended position to a folded position. In the extended position the hopper is oriented at an angle to the conveyor tube such that the hopper extends along the ground when the conveyor is in the operating position, and is connected to the lower end of the conveyor tube such that the hopper conveyor section conveys material entering the hopper into the lower end of the conveyor tube for conveyance up the conveyor tube. A lock is operative to lock the hopper and conveyor together when the hopper is in the extended position. Hydraulic cylinders can be provided to facilitate use with larger conveyors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Bourgault Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Cresswell, Scot Jagow, Bob Cochran, Dean Thomas
  • Patent number: 7223059
    Abstract: A vehicle for conveying material is disclosed. The vehicle includes: an elongate vehicle frame; a hopper with a feed end and a discharge end, wherein the feed end is configured to receive the material; and an elongate material conveyor supported via the vehicle frame with a feed end downstream from the discharge end of the hopper and extending from its feed end to a discharge end. A substantial portion of the elongate material conveyor is configured to pivot about at least three axes, and the elongate material conveyor is adjustable among an inoperative position and plural extended positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Construction Equipment Company
    Inventors: Roger G. Smith, Jason D. Gerard
  • Patent number: 7108125
    Abstract: An extendable conveyor includes a support structure, a mechanically extendable section which is extendable along the longitudinal axis between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position, a conveyor belt reeved among the mechanically extendable section thereby defining a conveying surface and a drive. The drive is operable to drive the conveyor belt in at least one direction. The extendable section may be extended by driving the conveyor belt in one direction and retracted by driving the conveyor belt in an opposition direction. The mechanically extendable section may include a plurality of sections at least one made substantially from a unitary sheet of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip J. Gilmore, Shenghong Yang
  • Patent number: 7070004
    Abstract: A numerically-controlled robotic manipulator arm mounted to a sod harvester comprises two segments pivotally coupled together. One segment is rotatably coupled to a fixed base on the harvester while the second segment carries a pick-up head which can turn with respect to the segment. The pick-up head is capable of picking up, holding, and releasing sod rolls. The arm is programmable so that a variety of configurations of stacked sod rolls can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Steiner Turf Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Emanuel A. Hendriks, Mathias M. Hendriks, Johannes G. Hendriks, Wilhelmus J. Hendriks, David S. Johnsen, Gerald L. Douglas, Frank R. Pohlman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6966418
    Abstract: A conveyor for transporting materials from a first location to a second location has an elongated boom having a first end, a second end, a top surface, and a bottom surface; a conveyor mechanism such as an endless belt or chain that is operably attached to the elongated boom; and a plank platform operably attached to the boom adjacent to the bottom surface of the boom, wherein the platform is selectively pivotable from the boom and capable of providing a walking surface for the person unloading the conveyor. The platform may additionally or alternatively be at least partially extendible from one end of the elongated boom. The conveyor may be operably attached to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Anthony J. Crookston
  • Patent number: 6929113
    Abstract: A portable radially stacking conveyor has a telescoping stinger, with the stinger and main section sharing a single conveyor belt having a single drive mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Hoover Conveyor & Fabrication Corp.
    Inventors: Jerell D. Hoover, Shawn M. Hoover
  • Patent number: 6910586
    Abstract: A hydraulic ram assembly adapted to move parts of a conveyor between a number of pre-defined positions. In one embodiment of the invention, the hydraulic ram assembly consists of a single hydraulic ram, pivotally coupled at one end to the chassis of a trommel, and pivotally coupled at the other end to at least one of a number of mechanical linkages. The mechanical linkages are configured to link the hydraulic ram and at least two parts of a trommel conveyor. At least one mechanical linkage is lockable and unlockable such that in operation, the hydraulic ram can move the parts of the trommel conveyor between (a) a first, lowered, extended, operational position; (b) a second, raised, extended, operational position; and (c) a third, folded, retracted position, suitable for transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: James Paschal McCloskey
  • Patent number: 6805229
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus comprises an upper conveyor tube. A lower conveyor tube has an open upper discharge end telescopically engaged with the upper conveyor tube, and an intake hopper mounted on a lower intake end. A telescope actuator selectively extends and retracts the lower conveyor tube. Wheels are attached to the upper conveyor tube to support the lower end of the upper conveyor tube and the lower conveyor tube. The wheels are oriented for travel transverse to the conveyor tubes, and an elevating actuator is operative to raise and lower the wheels. A conveyor belt has a top run that passes through the hopper and conveyor tubes, and a belt drive moves the top run of the conveyor belt up through the conveyor tubes to carry material from the intake hopper to the upper discharge end of the upper conveyor tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Adrianus Petrus Jacoba Dekoning
  • Publication number: 20040178045
    Abstract: An extendible belt conveyor system for a mine. Cars carrying conveyor rollers are part of a main conveyor. When the conveyor needs to be expanded, the individual cars may be extended to extend the framework for the belt. The wheels on the cars may be both elevated and rotated for positioning. A low profile structure may carry a separate conveyor which can fit below the profile of the cars and thus further extend the conveyor. The low profile conveyor can have an elevating head drive mounted thereon which is slidable and can be fixed in a position as the framework is moved forward. This arrangement can be used also in other situations as for dumping refuse in a pile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Robert B. Conner
  • Patent number: 6763925
    Abstract: A self propelled vehicle for transport and placement of an onboard supply of fill material in an onboard hopper. The hopper is connected to said vehicle at a point operatively positioned to discharge fill material placed therein on a conveyor belt mounted to a support structure. The fill material is deposited on the conveyor at a receiving and discharged at the distal end of the conveyor either directly or via a flow director attached to the distal end attached thereto. The flow director bifurcates the stream of fill material allowing the operator to place more or less of the fill in two streams using a plurality of independently adjustable channeling ramps. The hopper is optionally adjustable from an angle normal to the vehicle to allow for adjustment in the vehicle center of gravity on grades. The flow director can also be configured for attachment to existing conveyors to increase their utility or used as part of the entire self propelled device in a single unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: James Woods
  • Patent number: 6758317
    Abstract: A vehicle for the harvesting of plants bearing fruit or vegetables and particularly strawberries is disclosed. The vehicle comprises a conveyor belt system which is a pair of conveyors each comprising a belt assembly and an elongated trough positioned in a fixed relation above the belt assembly. Each conveyor is configured so that it can span many rows of fruit. Workers stand behind a conveyor and follow the vehicle picking strawberries. When the vehicle reaches the end of a row, the conveyor belt system is arc displaced over the vehicle to the opposite side using hydraulic power or some other appropriate means for displacement. The vehicle wheels are orientated for travel along the access road along the end of a field, for example, 90 degrees when the road is perpendicular to the rows of fruit. The vehicle then travels along the end of the field until it is again aligned with rows of fruit to be picked. The wheels are then orientated back for travel across the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Edward K. Colby
  • Patent number: 6705449
    Abstract: A bulk material processing apparatus having a longitudinally extending main frame and a supply conveyor mounted on, and extending length wise of the main frame to convey a supply of bulk material from a forward lower end of the conveyor to an upper and rearward discharge end. A material processing device is mounted on the main frame and arranged to receive material from the discharge end of the supply conveyor, to process the material, and to discharge processed material. A discharge conveyor is mounted on the main frame below the processing device to receive processed material discharged by the processing device and to discharge the material to a discharge point located rearwardly of the apparatus. The processing device is moveable between a raised operating position and a lowered transport position. Likewise, the discharge conveyor is moveable between a raised operative position and a lowered inoperative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Extec Industries, PLC
    Inventor: Christopher William Wagstaffe
  • Publication number: 20040031662
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus comprises an upper conveyor tube. A lower conveyor tube has an open upper discharge end telescopically engaged with the upper conveyor tube, and an intake hopper mounted on a lower intake end. A telescope actuator selectively extends and retracts the lower conveyor tube. Wheels are attached to the upper conveyor tube to support the lower end of the upper conveyor tube and the lower conveyor tube. The wheels are oriented for travel transverse to the conveyor tubes, and an elevating actuator is operative to raise and lower the wheels. A conveyor belt has a top run that passes through the hopper and conveyor tubes, and a belt drive moves the top run of the conveyor belt up through the conveyor tubes to carry material from the intake hopper to the upper discharge end of the upper conveyor tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Adrianus Petrus Jacoba Dekoning
  • Patent number: 6628909
    Abstract: A method for aligning an endless belt having an optimum position within an acceptable range on associate guide rollers in a machine by manually placing the belt over an outboard end of the guide rollers and sliding the belt inward over the guide rollers to a first rough position. When it is determined that the belt has reached an acceptable range of positions, the belt is steered inward using a given operational steering angle. When it is determined that the belt has reached an optimum position, the belt is driven at an operational speed and steered inward and outward to maintain the optimum position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Michael B. Monahan, Carlos A. Lopez, Joseph D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6604620
    Abstract: An apparatus in kit form for attachment of a conventional portable conveyor to a vehicle for transport comprises a rear hitch member attached to an axle mount on the axle of the conveyor adjacent one wheel and adapted at an opposite end thereof for releasable attachment to a vehicle's rear hitch. A front vehicle mount is attached to a front portion of the vehicle and a conveyor mount is attached to a support location between the intake end of the conveyor body and the axle. A front hitch member has an upper end releasably attached to the conveyor mount, and has a lower end releasably attachable to the front vehicle mount, so as to bear against the support location as the conveyor body moves down, with the result that the intake end moves up. The apparatus is adjustable such that the conveyor and vehicle may be substantially aligned for travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew Dennis
  • Publication number: 20030146315
    Abstract: A screen assembly 22 includes a conveyor 26 pivotably mounted beneath a screen 24 for segregation of fractions of material, for example from a mobile crusher 10. Hydraulic cylinders (not shown) are used to selectively move telescopic arms 48 (only one of which is shown in the Figures), to raise or lower the conveyor 26 between operative position and inoperative positions. In the operative position the conveyor 26 is substantially parallel to the screen 24 for receiving material which has passed through the screen mesh, in use. In the inoperative position the conveyor 26 is angularly displaced relative to the screen 24 about the pivot, to provide access to the underside of the screen 24, e.g. for maintenance purposes. Removable pins 50 are provided for releasably securing the attitude of the conveyor 26 relative to the screen 24 in the operative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Ian Boast
  • Publication number: 20030057055
    Abstract: A transport conveyor particularly for grain in piles on the ground has a trailer mounted on ground wheels for towing by a tractor in a direction of travel. The trailer can be driven forward while the tractor remains stationary either by a hydraulic cylinder on an extendible hitch or by a drive at the ground wheels which moves the trailer while the hitch and the tractor remain stationary. An auger tube is carried on the trailer by a support post which allows the auger tube to swivel about a vertical axis from a longitudinally extending transport position to an operating position in which the tube extends generally transversely of the direction of travel with a feed end of the tube projecting outwardly beyond one side of the trailer, with a discharge end projecting outwardly beyond the opposite side of the vehicle and with the discharge end raised for discharge into a transport truck on that side. The tube can also pivot about a horizontal axis at the post allowing the feed end to float up and down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Duane Haukaas, Greg Haukaas
  • Publication number: 20030047415
    Abstract: A bulk material processing apparatus (10) which comprises: a longitudinally extending main frame (11); a supply conveyor (23) mounted on, and extending lengthwise of the main frame (11), and operative to convey a supply of bulk material from a forward lower end of the conveyor to an upper and rearward discharge end (24), a material processing device (13) mounted on the main frame (11) and arranged to receive material from the discharge end (24) of the supply conveyor (23), to process the material, and to discharge processed material; a discharge conveyor (32) mounted on the main frame (11) below the processing device (16) so as to be able to receive processed material discharged by the processing device, and to discharge the material to a discharge point located rearwardly of the apparatus; means (16, 17, 18) mounting the processing device (13) on the main frame (11) for movement between a raised operating position to a lowered transport position; and, means (34) mounting the discharge conveyor (32) on the ma
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher William Wagstaffe
  • Publication number: 20030029694
    Abstract: An outer extendable boom or extension is implemented on an extendable conveyor of conventional design, which includes at least two extendable units, each of which is nested within the next inwardly positioned unit and adjustably positioned between an extended position and a retracted position. The outer boom includes a pair of opposite side members which extend within an outer conventional extendable unit and a conveying surface. A support system is provided to support the outer boom as it extends and retracts within the outer extendable unit. A forward support member of the support system is laterally aligned with the side members and a cantilever support member is vertically spaced from a rearward end of the side members, such that a reduced range in width and a reduced range in height of the extendable units may be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Applicant: Rapistan Systems Advertising Corporation, a corporation of the State of Delaware
    Inventor: Phillip J. Gilmore
  • Patent number: 6471031
    Abstract: An improved mobile belt conveyor is provided which can be quickly and easily converted between use and transport positions. A conveyor frame is pivotally connected to a hopper frame, with hydraulic cylinders controlling the angular position of the hopper relative to the conveyor frame. When the hydraulic cylinders are retracted, the hopper is pivoted upwardly relative to the conveyor, thereby raising a hitch on the forward end of the hopper such that a vehicle can be positioned beneath the hitch. When the hydraulic cylinders are extended, the hopper is pivoted downwardly relative to the conveyor, such that the hitch is lowered onto a hitch receiver on the tractor or vehicle. Thus, a simple two-step process is provided for movement of the conveyor system between the use and transport positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Stanley R. Duncalf
  • Patent number: 6447234
    Abstract: A livestock loading/unloading system for transporting livestock from/to a confinement area to/from a transport vehicle to allow transport from farm-to-farm, from farm-to-processing plant or from processing plant-to-farm. The livestock loading/unloading system includes a mobile conveying apparatus whereby the livestock ride a conveyor from/to the confinement area to/from a transport vehicle. Such a transport vehicle may be specially adapted for use in conjunction with the conveying apparatus, or may be of the conventional livestock transporting type. The conveying apparatus includes a telescoping end that extends into and retracts from the coops of the transport vehicle. A system of hydraulics controls the speed of the conveyor, aids in the transverse leveling of the machine, adjusts both the angle and tier of loading, and levels and controls the telescoping end of the conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Turkey Scope, LLC
    Inventors: Steven C. Sinn, John D. Wilham, James Pyle, Richard Bloome
  • Publication number: 20020092728
    Abstract: The laser pointer 52 indicates the work position and the camera 54 takes the image and the laser range finder 46 provided on the upper frame 10 of the conveyor system is heading for the indicated position, so that the distance is measured. The coordinate of the work position is found from the previously obtained distance and the rotating amount rotating the laser range finder towards the indicated position, and the cargo work is executed. The work position may be easily indicated and the coordinate of the work position may be recognized surely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Applicant: Murata Kikai Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6336558
    Abstract: A combination of a tractor unit (10) and a wheeled trailer combination, preferably a mobile screening plant (100), in which the tractor unit (10) has endless tracks (11) to render the combination highly maneuverable, and carries an upwardly and downwardly adjustable “fifth wheel coupling” (13) which pivotally connects the forward end (115) of the screening plant (100), the latter having a wheelset (118) at its rear end, and in which the screening plant (100) has an input hopper (114), an elevator (112) for conveying material to be screened from the hopper to a screen box (117), and one or more discharge conveyors (121, 123) for discharging screened material to form one or more stockpiles of screened material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventor: Patrick Joseph Douglas
  • Patent number: 6302265
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly having upper and lower truss portions includes a hinge mechanism structurally arranged to be secured to the upper truss and lower truss portions. Rotational movement of the hinge mechanism lowers the lower truss portion while simultaneously positioning the upper truss portion in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the lower truss portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: CMI Corporation
    Inventor: John Cunningham
  • Patent number: 6302257
    Abstract: A self propelled vehicle for transport and placement of an onboard supply of fill material in an onboard hopper. The hopper is connected to said vehicle at a point operatively positioned to discharge fill material placed therein on a conveyor belt mounted to a support structure. At the distal end of the conveyor where the material is discharged a flow director is operatively attached to the support structure to receive the flow of fill material carried by said conveyor from the hopper. The flow director bifurcates the stream of fill material allowing the operator to place more or less of the fill in two streams using a plurality of independently adjustable channeling ramps. The hopper is optionally adjustable from an angle normal to the vehicle to allow for adjustment in the vehicle center of gravity on grades. The flow director can also be configured for attachment to existing conveyors to increase their utility or used as part of the entire self propelled device in a single unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: James Woods
  • Patent number: 6283269
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted conveyor system including an infeed conveyor assembly having a telescoping feed section including a pivotable outer portion. The feed section of the infeed conveyor assembly includes an outer portion pivotally mounted to an inner portion such that the outer portion can be positioned at an angle relative to the inner portion. The outer portion of the feed section includes a support assembly such that the outer portion can be supported on the ground in a generally horizontal orientation. The outer section includes a collapsible collection bin having a pair of hinged sidewalls and a pair of hinged end walls that can be joined to form the collection bin above the conveyor belt of the infeed conveyor assembly. The combination of the collapsible bin and horizontal outer portion of the feed section of the infeed conveyor assembly allows the conveyor system to be used in directly unloading a supply of aggregate material without the requirement of a separate hopper and additional unloading equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Putzmeister, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin G. Mayer
  • Patent number: 6186311
    Abstract: A self-transporting conveyor system suitable for handling the discharge of a rock or concrete crusher, for example. The system includes a pair of stacking conveyors and a pair of transfer conveyors all of which are assembled together for towing by a single highway tractor. The conveyors can be set up at a desired site using available equipment, such as a loader, so that the cost of a special crane is avoided. Each stacking conveyor includes a self-contained hydraulic power supply that allows it to hydraulically fold up for transport, and unfold for operation, and enables it to hydraulically pivot back and forth during operation to build a kidney-shaped pile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Ohio Machinery Co.
    Inventor: Edward L. Conner