A conveyor chain includes a first link, a second link, and a coupler link. The first link includes a first sprocket-engaging portion and a second sprocket-engaging portion, each protruding laterally away from one another. The second link includes a first sprocket-engaging portion and a second sprocket-engaging portion, each protruding laterally away from one another. The coupler link couples the first link to the second link, and the coupler link is positioned laterally between the first sprocket-engaging portion and the second sprocket-engaging portion of each link. The coupler link includes a first joint pivotably coupled to the first link and a second joint pivotably coupled to the second link. The first joint permits pivoting movement of the first link about a plurality of axes, and the second joint permits pivoting movement of the second link about a plurality of axes.
B65G 17/06 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface having a load-carrying surface formed by a series of interconnected, e.g. longitudinal, links, plates, or platforms
A link for a conveyor chain includes a first portion and a second portion laterally spaced apart from the first portion. The first portion includes a first sprocket-engaging pin, and the second portion includes a second sprocket-engaging pin. The first sprocket-engaging pin and the second sprocket-engaging pin protrude laterally away from one another. The first sprocket-engaging pin and the second sprocket-engaging pin may each have an oblong cross-section. At least one retainer can secure a connecting pin against movement relative to at least one of the first portion and the second portion, and each retainer can be positioned substantially within one of the first portion and the second portion.
B65G 17/00 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface
B65G 19/08 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for moving bulk material in open troughs or channels the impellers being scrapers similar in size and shape to the cross-section of the trough or channel and attached to a single belt, rope, or chain
In some aspects, a conveyor chain includes a first link, a second link, and a coupler link coupled between the first link and the second link. The first link includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion oriented parallel to and laterally spaced apart from the first portion. The first portion includes a first sprocket-engaging pin protruding laterally, and the second portion includes a second sprocket-engaging pin protruding laterally. The second link includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a first sprocket-engaging portion protruding laterally, and the second portion includes a second sprocket-engaging portion protruding laterally. A flight bar is positioned adjacent an end of the first sprocket-engaging portion of the first link.
B62D 55/20 - Tracks of articulated type, e.g. chains
B62D 55/21 - Links connected by transverse pivot pins
B65G 19/08 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for moving bulk material in open troughs or channels the impellers being scrapers similar in size and shape to the cross-section of the trough or channel and attached to a single belt, rope, or chain
A linkage for moving material from a first end of a conveyor toward a second end of the conveyor includes a first link and a second link. The first link includes a first side edge and a first indicator. The second link includes a second side edge and a second indicator. The second link is coupled to the first link such that the first side edge of the first link overlaps with the second side edge of the second link. Elongation of the first link in the direction of movement causes the first indicator to move relative to the second indicator, and a position of the first indicator relative to the second indicator provides an indication of a wear condition of the first link. In some aspects, a first surface and/or a second surface of one of the links includes a wear indicator representing a surface wear condition.
B65G 17/00 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface
B65G 17/06 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface having a load-carrying surface formed by a series of interconnected, e.g. longitudinal, links, plates, or platforms
B65G 19/04 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for moving bulk material in open troughs or channels
A conveyor chain includes first link, a second link, a connecting link, a first flight, and a second flight. The first link includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion has apertures and a first drive pin disposed between the apertures. The first drive pin is configured to be driven by a first sprocket. The second side portion has apertures and a second drive pin disposed between the apertures and extending in a direction opposite the first drive pin. The second drive pin is configured to be driven by a second sprocket. The second link includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The first flight is cast integrally with an end of the first drive pin of the first link, and the second flight is cast integrally with an end of the second drive pin of the first link.
B65G 17/00 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface
B65G 19/08 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for moving bulk material in open troughs or channels the impellers being scrapers similar in size and shape to the cross-section of the trough or channel and attached to a single belt, rope, or chain
B65G 19/24 - Attachment of impellers to traction element
B65G 19/26 - Attachment of impellers to traction element pivotal
B65G 23/06 - Drums, rollers, or wheels with projections engaging abutments on belts or chains, e.g. sprocket wheels
B65G 17/06 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface having a load-carrying surface formed by a series of interconnected, e.g. longitudinal, links, plates, or platforms
E21F 13/08 - Shifting conveyors or other transport devices from one location at the working face to another
A drive mechanism for a chain conveyor includes an elongated shaft that extends along an axis and is configured to be driven to rotate by a motor. A sprocket is integrally formed with the shaft. The sprocket includes a plurality of lobes that extend around a perimeter of the shaft. Each lobe is spaced apart from an adjacent lobe by a recessed portion. Each of the recessed portions is configured to receive a drive pin of the chain conveyor.
B65G 23/06 - Drums, rollers, or wheels with projections engaging abutments on belts or chains, e.g. sprocket wheels
B65G 17/38 - Chains or like traction elementsConnections between traction elements and load-carriers
B65G 19/06 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for moving bulk material in open troughs or channels the impellers being scrapers similar in size and shape to the cross-section of the trough or channel
B65G 19/08 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for moving bulk material in open troughs or channels the impellers being scrapers similar in size and shape to the cross-section of the trough or channel and attached to a single belt, rope, or chain
E21C 25/68 - Machines for making slits combined with equipment for removing, e.g. by loading, material won by other means
E21C 35/20 - General features of equipment for removal of chippings, e.g. for loading on conveyor
A jack for a vehicle includes a tube configured to be coupled to a chassis, and a cylinder assembly supported by the tube. The cylinder assembly includes a barrel and a rod at least partially received within the barrel. Actuation of the cylinder assembly causes the barrel to move relative to the tube in a first direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tube while the rod remains stationary relative to the tube. In some aspects, the jack further includes a locking device selectively received within the tube in a locked position. The locking device intersects the barrel's path to inhibit movement of the barrel in a second direction opposite the first direction when the locking device is in the locked position.
A rock excavating device includes a shaft and a cutting element. The shaft includes a first portion and a second portion connected to an end of the first portion. The first portion is rotatable about a first axis. The second portion extends along a second axis that is oblique with respect to the first axis. The cutting element includes a cutting edge. The cutting element is supported on the second portion and rotatable about the second axis. Rotation of the first portion of the shaft about the first axis changes the orientation of the second axis and the cutting element.
A machine for excavating rock includes a frame, a cutting device, and a boom. The cutting device includes a cutting disc having a cutting edge, and the cutting disc is rotatable about a cutting device axis. The boom supports the cutting device and includes a first end, a second end, and a boom axis substantially parallel to the cutting device axis. The boom further includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is coupled to the frame for rotation about a first pivot axis between a raised position and a lowered position. The second portion is coupled to the cutting device, and the second portion is pivotable about a second pivot axis between a raised position and a lowered position.
E21C 27/10 - Machines which completely free the mineral from the seam by both slitting and breaking-down
E21C 27/12 - Machines which completely free the mineral from the seam by both slitting and breaking-down breaking-down effected by acting on the vertical face of the mineral, e.g. by percussive tools
E21C 27/14 - Machines which completely free the mineral from the seam by both slitting and breaking-down breaking-down effected by force or pressure applied to side of slit, e.g. by wedges
E21C 27/16 - Machines which completely free the mineral from the seam by both slitting and breaking-down breaking-down effected by force or pressure applied to side of slit, e.g. by wedges with means for both slitting and breaking-down
E21C 27/20 - Mineral freed by means not involving slitting
E21C 27/22 - Mineral freed by means not involving slitting by rotary drills with breaking-down means, e.g. wedge-shaped drills
E21C 27/24 - Mineral freed by means not involving slitting by milling means acting on the full working face
A rotary sensor includes a rotor and a housing. A support structure includes a shaft, a housing portion, a first member, and a second member. A first end of the shaft is coupled to the rotor, and the shaft is supported for rotation about a shaft axis. The housing portion includes a first bore extending along a first axis, and a second bore extending along a second axis oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the first axis. The first member is received in the first bore and is movable relative to the housing portion in a direction parallel to the first axis. The first member is coupled to the second end of the shaft. The second member is received in the second bore. At least one of the housing portion and the second member is movable relative to the other of the housing portion and the second member in a direction parallel to the second axis.
E21C 35/00 - Details of, or accessories for, machines for slitting or completely freeing the mineral from the seam, not provided for in groups , or
E21C 35/20 - General features of equipment for removal of chippings, e.g. for loading on conveyor
G01D 3/00 - Measuring arrangements with provision for the special purposes referred to in the subgroups of this group
G01D 5/00 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable
A cutting pick for a mining machine includes an elongated shank, a cutting portion, an insert, and an indicator. The elongated shank includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The cutting portion is connected to the second end of the shank and includes an outer surface and a cutting end. The cutting end includes a slot extending along an axis. The insert includes a tip and an end portion opposite the tip. The end portion is positioned in the slot such that the tip protrudes from the slot. The indicator is positioned on the outer surface of the cutting portion. A position of a portion of the indicator relative to the axis is aligned with a position of the end portion of the insert relative to the axis.
A tensioning mechanism for a conveyor system includes a support structure, a first carriage, a second carriage, and a brake mechanism. The first carriage is positioned proximate a first end of the support structure and is supported for movement relative to the support structure. The first carriage includes first rolls for receiving the belt such that movement of the first carriage modifies a tension in the belt. The second carriage is supported for movement relative to the support structure and includes second rolls and at least one return pulley. The second rolls are configured to support a portion of the belt extending between the first carriage and the second carriage. The brake mechanism is positioned proximate a second end of the support structure and includes a brake pulley and a brake selectively retarding rotation of the brake pulley. The brake pulley supports a portion of the belt extending between the brake mechanism and the return pulley.
B65G 23/44 - Belt- or chain-tensioning arrangements
B65G 21/14 - Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors movable, or having interchangeable or relatively- movable partsDevices for moving framework or parts thereof to allow adjustment of length or configuration of load-carrier or traction element
B65G 23/00 - Driving gear for endless conveyorsBelt- or chain-tensioning arrangements
A conveyor pan is provided for supporting a portion of a mining conveyor extending along a mine face and positioned between the mine face and a goaf. The conveyor pan includes a deck, a toe, and a heel. The deck includes a first side configured to be positioned proximate the mine face and a second side configured to be positioned proximate the goaf. The toe is positioned adjacent the first side of the deck, and includes a toe contact surface defining a toe surface area. The heel is positioned adjacent the second side of the deck, and includes a lug and a heel contact surface. The lug is configured to be coupled to an advancement mechanism. The heel contact surface defines a heel surface area greater than the toe surface area.
E21C 35/12 - Guiding the machine along a conveyor for the cut material
B65G 19/00 - Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors
A cutting bit assembly for a mining machine includes a holder having a first surface, a second surface, and a bore extending therebetween, and a bit having a first end and a second end. The bit further includes a tip, a shank, and a shoulder positioned between the tip and the shank. The shank is positioned in the bore of the holder and defines a shank axis. The shoulder engages the first surface of the holder. The shank includes a projection adjacent the second end. The cutting bit assembly also includes a retainer having a groove and a resilient member. The groove engages a portion of the projection. The resilient portion engages the second surface of the holder and biases the retainer along the shank axis and away from the holder.
E21C 35/193 - Means for fixing picks or holders using bolts as main fixing elements
B28D 1/18 - Working stone or stone-like materials, e.g. brick, concrete, not provided for elsewhereMachines, devices, tools therefor by milling, e.g. channelling by means of milling tools
A cutter head for a mining machine includes a drum defining a drum axis with a drum plane extending perpendicular to the drum axis. The cutter head includes a plurality of cutting bit assemblies secured to an outer surface of the drum proximate a first end. Each cutting bit assembly includes a block and a bit. The bit includes a tip configured to engage a mine surface. The bit defines a bit axis, and the bit axis defines a first lean angle relative to the drum plane. The plurality of cutting bit assemblies includes a first series having four first bits, a second series having two second bits, a third series having two third bits, and a fourth series having two fourth bits. Each of the first bits includes a first tip and defines a first bit axis oriented at a first lean angle relative to the drum plane. The first lean angle is between about 60 degrees and about 75 degrees.
Systems and methods are described for monitoring a condition of a mine roof using a longwall mining system. A plurality of powered roof supports is controlled to apply an adjustable support pressure on a mine roof. A condition of the mine roof is monitored based on the adjustable support pressure applied to the roof by a respective actuator of each powered roof support. In some implementations, the condition of the mine roof is monitored by generating and analyzing a graphical pressure map based on the adjustable support pressure applied by each powered roof support and a relative position of a shearer moving across the mine face. In some implementations, roof collapse events are detected based on temporally similar changes in the adjustable support pressure applied by multiple adjacent powered roof supports as indicated by the graphical pressure map.
E21D 23/00 - Mine roof supports for step-by-step movement, e.g. in combination with provisions for shifting of conveyors, mining machines or guides therefor
E21C 27/00 - Machines which completely free the mineral from the seam
17.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATING UNDERGROUND ROAD CONDITIONS USING ACCELEROMETERS
Methods and systems for evaluating underground road conditions using accelerometers. One system includes an electronic processor that receives sensor data from an accelerometer and location data of a mining machine operating within a mining environment. The electronic processor determines, based on the sensor data, a first data point when acceleration in a first direction exceeds a predetermined first threshold based on the sensor data, and determines a second data point when acceleration in a second direction opposite the first direction exceeds a predetermined second threshold. The electronic processor also determines a location of a road condition associated with the first data point and the second data point based on the location data and takes at least one automatic action to correct the road condition.
A bit assembly for a cutting drum includes a sleeve and a bit. The sleeve includes shank portion, a flange positioned, and a bore extending through the flange and the shank portion. The flange includes a first end surface, a second end surface, and a sleeve outer surface extending between the first end surface and the second end surface. A portion of the sleeve outer surface positioned adjacent the first end surface defines a sleeve profile. The bit includes a cutting end, a shank, and a shoulder positioned between the cutting end and the shank. The shank is positioned within the bore, and the shoulder is positioned adjacent the first end surface of the sleeve. A bit outer surface extending between the cutting end and the shoulder. A portion of the bit outer surface positioned adjacent the shoulder defines a bit profile that corresponds to the sleeve profile.
A cutting bit for a bit assembly secured to a cutter head includes a cutting end, a shank extending along a bit axis, and a shoulder positioned between the cutting end and the shank. The shoulder includes an outer edge defining a perimeter, a shoulder end surface defining a shoulder plane, a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. The first inclined surface is positioned between the outer edge and the shoulder end surface. The first inclined surface extends along the perimeter and is oriented at a first acute angle relative to the shoulder plane. The second inclined surface is positioned between the shoulder end surface and the first inclined surface. The second inclined surface is oriented at a second acute angle relative to the shoulder plane, and the second acute angle is smaller than the first acute angle.
A chain driven by two sprockets spaced a short distance apart along their common axial centerline. The chain includes elongated pins that extend beyond the outer surfaces of the chain link plates, on both sides, by a distance about equal to the width of the spaced apart sprockets. The chain is aligned midway between the sprockets, and the sprocket teeth drive on the extended portion of the chain pins. Where a flight is attached to the chain links, the pins are extended still further, to fit into the indentations or holes in the flights. This provides an exposed length of each pin in alignment with the sprocket on each side for driving purposes. The chain has a piece extending between the plates to reduce the likelihood of a pin extending further outside of one side plate or the other. A shoulder on the pin further reduces the likelihood of this happening.
A cutting bit assembly includes a block, a bit sleeve, and a seal. The block includes a first bore and a fluid passage. The fluid passage includes a first portion and a second portion in fluid communication with the first portion. The first portion is oriented obliquely with respect to the first bore, and the second portion extends at least partially around the perimeter of the first bore. The bit sleeve includes a shank, a flange, and a second bore extending through the shank and the flange. The shank is positioned within the first bore of the block such that a surface of the flange engages a first end surface of the block. The seal is positioned between the second portion of the fluid passage and the shank to prevent contact between a fluid in the fluid passage and the outer surface of the shank.
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (USA)
Inventor
Defibaugh, Joseph
Camargo, Hugo
Yang, Junyi
Abstract
A cutter head for a mining machine includes a first end and a second end with a drum axis extending between the first and the second ends. The cutter head also includes a web coupled to the second end of the drum. The web includes a plurality of arcuate apertures. Each arcuate aperture extends through an angle about the drum axis. The cutter head further includes a plurality of first ribs coupled to the web. Each of the first ribs is positioned between adjacent arcuate apertures. The cutter head also includes a plurality of second ribs coupled to the web. Each of the second ribs extend across one of the plurality of arcuate apertures. A first angle that extends between one of the first ribs and an adjacent one of the second ribs is different than a second angle extending between the one first rib and another adjacent second rib.
A tool includes an actuator assembly, a rod, a first nut, and a second nut. The actuator assembly includes a cylinder, a ram, and a bore extending through the cylinder and the ram. The cylinder includes an internal chamber supporting the ram, a first end, a second end, and a reaction surface positioned proximate the first end. The ram is movable relative to the cylinder and positioned adjacent the second end of the cylinder. The rod extends through the bore of the actuator assembly. The first nut is selectively coupled to one of a first end of the rod and a second end of the rod, and defines a first dimension larger than the bore width of the bit block. The second nut is selectively coupled to the other of the first end of the rod and the second end of the rod, and defines a second dimension less than the bore width.
Systems, methods, and computer-readable medium containing instructions for operating a conveyor. One method includes receiving, by a controller, a signal from each of a plurality of substations. Each of the plurality of substations provides power to a motor drive unit driving a conveyor belt of the conveyor. The signal received by the controller indicates whether an isolation switch associated with each substation has been manually operated. The method also includes, when the signal received from one of the plurality of substations indicates that the isolation switch associated with the one of the plurality of substations has been manually operated, transmitting, by the controller, a signal to each of the plurality of substations, the signal instructing each of the plurality of substations to isolate the motor drive unit from a power source.
A mining machine includes a frame, a first fluid tank, a second fluid tank, a valve, and a control system. The first fluid tank is supported on the frame proximate a first end, and the second fluid tank is supported on the frame proximate a second end. The valve permits fluid communication between the first and second fluid tanks when the valve is in a first position, and prevents fluid communication between the first and second fluid tanks when the valve is in a second position. The control system includes a first sensor detecting an amount of fluid in the first tank, a second sensor detecting an amount of fluid in the second tank, and a controller. The controller moves the valve to the first position when the difference between the amounts of fluid in the first and second tanks a predetermined threshold.
A proximity detection system at least one processor. The processor configured to detect a location of an object; determine a velocity of the object; define a zone around the object based on the location and the velocity; and automatically perform at least one action if the zone around the object overlaps with a location of a piece of equipment.
Systems and methods for operating a mining machine. One system includes a controller, a stationary object, and a radar device. The radar device transmits radio waves toward the stationary object and detects reflections of the radio waves. The controller obtains timing information regarding the radio waves and the reflections. Based on the timing information, the controller is configured to determine a first distance between the radar device and the stationary object before sumping the mining machine into material and a second distance between the radar device and the stationary object after sumping the mining machine into the material. The controller is also configured to determine a sump depth of the mining machine based on the first distance and the second distance, compare the determined sump depth to a predetermined sump depth, and perform at least one automatic action when the determined sump depth does not satisfy the predetermined sump depth.
E21C 35/24 - Remote control specially adapted for machines for slitting or completely freeing the mineral
E21C 39/00 - Devices for testing in situ the hardness or other properties of minerals, e.g. for giving information as to the selection of suitable mining tools
Systems and methods for operating a mining machine. One system includes a roof support system, a radar device, and at least one controller. The roof support system incorporates an anti-stealth device, and the radar device is configured to transmit a plurality of radio waves toward the roof support system and detect a plurality of reflections of the plurality of radio waves. The at least one controller is configured to obtain reflection data from the radar device representing timing information regarding the plurality of radio waves and the plurality of reflections, determine a position of the roof support system based on the reflection data, and perform at least one automatic action when the identified position of the roof support system satisfies a threshold.
Training an operator of an underground mining machine. The training includes generating a simulated training environment that includes a simulated underground mining machine and generating an interface related to a training lesson for the simulated underground mining machine. The training lesson is related to performing a simulated cutting operation with the underground mining machine. The training also includes receiving an operator input from an operator input device related to the simulated cutting operation with the underground mining machine, executing the simulated cutting operation within the simulated working environment based on the operator input, determining an amount of simulated mining material removed from a cutting face of the simulated working environment during the simulated cutting operation, and generating an indication of the amount of simulated mining material removed from the cutting face of the simulated working environment during the simulated cutting operation.
G06F 9/455 - EmulationInterpretationSoftware simulation, e.g. virtualisation or emulation of application or operating system execution engines
G06G 7/48 - Analogue computers for specific processes, systems, or devices, e.g. simulators
E21B 44/00 - Automatic control systems specially adapted for drilling operations, i.e. self-operating systems which function to carry out or modify a drilling operation without intervention of a human operator, e.g. computer-controlled drilling systemsSystems specially adapted for monitoring a plurality of drilling variables or conditions
A conveyor system including a conveyor belt; a conveyor rail including a track having a proximal end and a distal end, and a conveyor take-up for collecting excess conveyor belt; a conveyor carriage configured to move along the track between the proximal end and the distal end, the conveyor carriage including a base rotatably supporting the conveyor belt, and a target; a winch positioned proximate the proximal end of the track, the winch including a carriage cable coupling the conveyor carriage to the winch, a motor, and a motor sensor configured to sense a motor characteristic; a position sensor configured to sense a position of the target; and a controller having a memory and processor. The controller is configured to receive the motor characteristic and the position of the target, calculate a characteristic of the conveyor system, and output the characteristic.
B65G 25/00 - Conveyors comprising a cyclically-moving, e.g. reciprocating, carrier or impeller which is disengaged from the load during the return part of its movement
A material extraction system for an underground mine includes a mobile sizer for sizing removed material, an elevated bunker operable to collect the sized material, and a shuttle car operable to receive the collected material from the elevated bunker. The shuttle car is positioned substantially below the elevated bunker for receiving the collected material from the elevated bunker.
B02C 23/00 - Auxiliary methods or auxiliary devices or accessories specially adapted for crushing or disintegrating not provided for in groups or not specially adapted to apparatus covered by one only of groups
A delivery and removal system used to transport, install, and remove a belt for use with mining equipment. The system includes a first frame member and a second frame member. A deck extending between the first frame member and the second frame member, and a winder is supported by the deck and rotatable relative to the first frame member and the second frame member about the deck. The system includes a drive system for driving movement of the winder. A free end of the belt is coupled to the winder. When the drive system is driven in a first direction, the winder rotates in a first direction such that the belt winds about the deck and when the drive system is driven in a second direction, the winder rotates in a second direction such that the belt unwinds from the deck.
A winch drum tension isolation system includes a winch drum including an outwardly extending flange, the flange including a plurality of holes spaced along the flange. The winch drum tension isolation system also includes a locking mechanism positioned proximate the winch drum and including a locking member engageable with the flange. The locking member is movable between a first position, in which the locking member is received in one of the plurality of holes to prevent rotation of the winch drum, and a second position, in which the locking member is spaced apart from the flange to permit rotation of the winch drum.
A mobile sizer for an underground mining system includes drive treads, a sizer portion mounted on the drive treads, and a load bucket pivotably coupled to the sizer portion. The load bucket is sumped to remove material from the mine and pivotably swung to transfer removed material to the sizer portion.
A mining machine includes a boom, a cutter head, a valve, and an actuator. The boom defines an internal chamber and includes a first end coupled to a frame, a second end, and an opening in fluid communication with the internal chamber. The cutter head includes a plurality of cutting bits and is supported on the second end of the boom. The valve is coupled to the boom and is movable between a closed position in which the opening is covered and an open position in which the opening is at least partially uncovered. The actuator is coupled to the valve to selectively move the valve between the closed position and the opened position.
A multi-piece shaft for an idler roller including a tube having a first end and a second end. The shaft includes a first stub secured to the first end of the tube by a mechanical interlock and a second stub secured to the second end of the tube by a mechanical interlock. The first stub extends from the first end and the second stub extends from the second end when secured to the tube such that the tube, the first stub and the second stub define a length of the shaft.
A material extraction system is provided for an underground mine. The mine includes a roadway entry and a draw-bell entry intersecting the roadway entry and affording access to a draw-bell. The system generally includes a loader movable from the roadway entry into the draw-bell entry for removing material from the draw-bell, a sizer coupled to the loader for sizing the removed material, a material collector operable to collect the sized material, and a shuttle car operable to receive the collected material from the material collector. The material collector has a loading end and a discharge end, and material transport device extending therebetween. The shuttle car is movable along the roadway entry for transferring the collected material so as to facilitate a substantially continuous extraction of the material.
A movable machine includes a frame, an electrical motor on the fame, a cable electrically connected to the motor and adapted to be connected to a source of power, and a sheave bracket assembly coupled to the frame. The sheave bracket assembly includes two mounting plates, two spaced apart sheaves rotatably mounted on the mounting plates, a hinged portion coupled to the mounting plates and pivotally coupled to the frame, and at least one biasing member located between the frame and the mounting plates that biases the mounting plates and sheaves toward a first position.
B21C 47/00 - Winding-up, coiling or winding-off metal wire, metal band or other flexible metal material characterised by features relevant to metal processing only
A cutter head includes a first member, a cutting bit, and a second member. The first member includes a first end and a second end and includes a first mass. The cutting bit is coupled to the first member proximate the second end. The cutting bit includes a cutting edge rotatable about the axis. The second member is rotatable about the axis and includes a second mass eccentrically positioned with respect to the axis. Rotation of the second mass causes the first member and the cutting bit to oscillate.
Systems and methods for controlling lighting in a mining environment. One system includes at least one light emitting diode and a controller. The controller is configured to communicate with the at least one light emitting diode and change the light emitting diode from a first operating mode to a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the at least one light emitting diode provides area lighting, and, in the second operating mode, the at least one light emitting diode conveys information to personnel located in the mining environment. The controller changes the light emitting diode from the first operating mode to the second operating mode based on status information received from at least one device included in the mining environment.
B60Q 3/02 - Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interior, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor for lighting passenger or driving compartment
Methods and system for automatically operating a continuous mining machine. One method includes automatically operating at least one actuator to position a platform supporting a cutterhead at a predetermined starting position, automatically operating the at least one actuator to advance the platform toward a cutting face until the cutterhead contacts the cutting face and at least one indicator of a physical force between the cutterhead and the cutting face exceeds a predetermined value, and automatically saving at least one coordinate of the cutting face to a computer-readable medium, the at least one coordinate based on a parameter of the at least one actuator when the indicator exceeds the predetermined value.
A mining machine including a frame, a cutting head moveably coupled to the frame and pivotable about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to a first mine surface, and a first actuator for stabilizing the frame relative to the first mine surface. The first actuator is coupled to the frame and includes a first end extendable in a first direction to engage the first mine surface. The extension of the first actuator is automatically controlled based on measurements of at least one indicator of the force between the first actuator and the first mine surface.
A mining machine for cutting material from a mine wall includes a cutting head that is moveable to engage the mine wall, a vacuum duct positioned proximate the cutting head and including an inlet for receiving the material that is cut from the mine wall, and a sizer for reducing the size of material that passes into the vacuum duct, the sizer being positioned proximate the inlet.
A mining shuttle car that trams on underground roadways includes a conveyor system and an operator's compartment adjacent to the conveyor system. The operator's compartment includes a rotatable seat and a control station. The operator's seat module is coupled to one or more joysticks that control the car, and the operator's seat module and the control station are mounted on a rotatable platform so as to be rotatable as a unit between a plurality of secured positions for operating the mining shuttle car. Forward movement of the joystick control relative to the seat steers the shuttle car about a point in front of the seat, and rearward movement of the joystick control relative to the seat steers the shuttle car about a point behind the seat.
A chain driven by two sprockets spaced a short distance apart along their common axial centerline. The chain includes elongated pins that extend beyond the outer surfaces of the chain link plates, on both sides, by a distance about equal to the width of the spaced apart sprockets. The chain is aligned midway between the sprockets, and the sprocket teeth drive on the extended portion of the chain pins. Where a flight is attached to the chain links, the pins are extended further, to fit into the indentations or holes in the flights. This provides an exposed length of each pin in alignment with the sprocket on each side for driving purposes. The chain has a piece extending between the plates to reduce the likelihood of a pin extending further outside of one side plate or the other. A shoulder on the pin further reduces the likelihood of this happening.
A guidance system for mining a seam of material includes a mining machine, a carriage, and a guide assembly. The mining machine includes a cutter head and defines a roll axis extending the length of the machine, a pitch axis extending from one side of the machine to the other side, and a yaw axis extending from a top side of the machine to the bottom side. The carriage includes a first, second and third emitter to project first, second and third laser. The guide assembly includes a first indicator and a target. The first indicator is aligned with the second laser, and the target is aligned with the third laser. The relative positions of the first indicator with respect to the second laser and the target with respect to the third laser indicate the orientation of the roll axis, pitch axis, and yaw axis relative to the seam plane.
An underground boring machine includes a vehicle frame, a boom, and a boring cutter head. The boom includes a first end coupled to the vehicle frame and a second end. The boring cutter head includes a rotary joint, a first arm, and a second arm angularly spaced apart from the first arm. The rotary joint defines an axis of rotation and supports the boring cutter head for rotation with respect to the second end of the boom. The first arm includes a first end coupled to the rotary joint, a second end, and at least one disc cutter coupled to the first arm and oriented to engage the wall. The first arm extends from the first end toward the second end in a plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The second arm includes a first end coupled to the rotary joint, a second end, and at least one disc cutter coupled to the second arm and oriented to engage the wall. The second arm extends from the first end toward the second end in a plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
A continuous material extraction system for a mine. The mine includes a roadway entry and a draw-bell entry intersecting the roadway entry and affording access to a draw-bell. The system generally includes a conveyor extending along the roadway entry, roadway rails extending along the roadway entry, and a material collector moveable along the roadway rails. The material collector is operable to crush material and deposit crushed material onto the conveyor. The system also includes a loading machine that is moveable along the rails and from the roadway entry into the draw-bell entry for removing material from the draw-bell and transferring material removed from the draw bell to the material collector. A bridge conveyor extends between the loading machine and the material collector.
A material extraction system for an underground mine includes an elevated haulage conveyor extending between first and second ends of a roadway entry. The haulage conveyor is cantilevered from a mine wall and conveys material toward either end of the roadway entry. The system also includes a crusher including a drive operable to move the crusher along the roadway entry. The system further includes a bridge conveyor including a first end adjacent the crusher and receiving material from the crusher, and a second end adjacent the elevated haulage conveyor and positioned for depositing material onto the elevated haulage conveyor. The bridge conveyor is moveable with the crusher along the roadway entry. The system also includes a loader moveable along the roadway entry and into and out of material collection entries to collect material therefrom and transport the material to the crusher.
A surface mining system for removing material from a mining face generally includes a conveyor extending substantially parallel to the mining face, a miner supported by and moveable along the conveyor, and a conveyor translation device associated with the conveyor and operable to move the conveyor and the miner toward the mining face. A method for advancing a surface mining longwall system generally includes moving the longwall shearer along a face conveyor, operating load translation devices to move the face conveyor and the longwall shearer toward the mining face, resetting a first group of load translation devices, and then resetting a second group of load translation devices. A load translation device generally includes an actuator, a ground drilling device coupled to and moveable with a portion of the actuator, and a frame coupled to and moveable with another portion of the actuator.
A surface miner operates in a first direction to remove material from a mining face with its rotational axis of the cutting drums oriented substantially perpendicular to the mining face. Upon reaching an end of the mining face, the surface miner turns such that the axis is oriented substantially parallel to the mining face. The surface miner then operates in a second direction to cut a first channel from the mining face. To withdraw the cutters from the first channel, the surface miner reverses. The surface miner repositions to cut a second channel from the mining face in the second direction. The first and second channels together define a cut out. The surface miner is positioned in the cut out with the axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the mining face facing in a direction substantially opposite the first direction. The surface miner then continues to remove material in that direction.
A surface mining system removes material from a surface mining block that has a substantially vertical and laterally extending mining face. The surface mining system generally includes a miner moveable in a lateral direction along the mining face, a face conveyor extending along the mining face, and conveyor translation devices associated with the face conveyor and operable to move the face conveyor toward the mining face as material is removed. The miner includes a rotating cutting member mounted to an end of a vertically ranging cutting arm and operable to remove material from the mining block. The face conveyor includes a discharge portion and is operable to convey material removed from the mining block toward the discharge portion. Each conveyor translation device includes a secured configuration substantially fixed with respect to the mining face and an unsecured configuration moveable with respect to the mining face.
A side shifting conveyor is provided for a surface mining operation. The conveyor generally includes conveyor sections and conveyor translation devices. Each conveyor translation device includes a drive operable to move the associated at least one conveyor section in a direction substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction. The conveyor further includes a controller operatively coupled to each drive for controlling operation of the drive and coordinating movement of the conveyor sections. A method for moving a conveyor in a surface mine generally includes sensing that a surface miner operable to deposit material onto the conveyor sections has moved beyond one of the conveyor sections, fixing a position relative to the surface mine of a conveyor translation device associated with one of the conveyor sections, and operating the conveyor translation device to move one of the conveyor sections in a direction substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction.
A haulage device for installing a conveyor element in a mining conveyor includes a housing with a mounting portion for coupling to the mining conveyor, a reciprocating assembly mounted to the housing and movable between a first position and a second position, and a relay element including a first portion coupled to the reciprocating assembly and a second portion coupled to at least one of the reciprocating assembly and the conveyor element. When the reciprocating assembly moves from the first position to the second position the relay element moves the conveyor element in a first direction along the mining conveyor.
A conveyor and a dowel assembly. The dowel assembly may generally include a dowel body positioned between the frame and the housing and a seal arrangement. The seal arrangement may include an end seal member engageable with the end wall of the recess, and a side seal member engageable with the side wall of the recess, and a carrier member supported by the dowel body and supporting one of the end seal member and the side seal member, the carrier member being supported for movement relative to the dowel body to provide engagement of the one of the end seal member and the side seal member with the associated one of the end wall and the side wall.
A longwall mining system includes at least one face end roof support having a longitudinal length, and at least one near end roof support adjacent the face end roof support The near end roof support has a longitudinal length substantially shorter than the face end roof support longitudinal length There is also at least one face roof support adjacent the near end roof support, and the face roof support has a longitudinal length substantially shorter than the near end roof support longitudinal length There is also a forward conveyor extending forward to and attached to the face end roof support, the at least one near end roof support, and the at least one face roof support, and a rearward conveyor extending rearward of and attached to the face end roof support, the at least one near end roof support, and the at least one face roof support
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