CA2075638C - Launch vehicle for continuous mining apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A launch vehicle (10) is provided for a continuous mining system including modular conveyor units (U) that may be con-nected together to form a conveyor train (T). The launch vehicle (10) includes an elongated frame (12) that holds a belt conveyor (14) for conveying aggregate material that is received from the conveyor train (T). A drive assembly (34) for selectively advancing and withdrawing the conveyor train is also provided on the launch vehicle. Additionally, the launch vehicle includes a mechanism (52) for adding a modular conveyor unit to the conveyor train. More specifically, the conveyor train drive assembly (34) includes a pair of cooperating tandem drive cylinders (36, 38). Each drive cylinder includes a pusher arm unit (42) that is adapted to en-gage one of the modular conveyor units of the conveyor train. The conveyor unit adding mechanism includes a positioning me-chanism that holds and places a conveyor unit on the launch vehicle. A pusher cylinder is also provided to push the new conveyor unit into engagement with the rear of the conveyor train. The launch vehicle also includes an extensible front end.

Description

~ WO 92~t0644 2 0 7 ~ ~ 3 8 PCr/US91/09234 t LAUNCH VEHICLE FOR Cu., lNU~U~i MINING APPARATUS
T~hn; r~ 1 Field The present invention relates generally to the art of mining and, more particularly to a launch 5 vehicle for an apparatus adapted for the continuous mining of aggregate material, such as coal, in situ.
Backaro~n~l Qf the Invention Coal, formed from 19~ ~ed and compressed vegetable matter, is typically found in substantially 10 horizontal seams extending between sedimentary rock strata such as limestone, sandstone or shale. Surface and underground mining are the primary te- hn i qn~e used to recover this coal.
Surface or strip mining involves the removal 15 of material, known as overburden, overlying a coal seam so as to expose the coal for recovery. In recent years, surface mining has gained prnmin~nce over Undt!Lu.uu..d mining in the United States. This is due to many factors including:
(a) the increased material moving capacity of surface or strip mining equipment;
(b) lower costs for surface mining than underground mining;
(c) the better safety record of surface 25 mining versus underground mining;
(d) the higher coal recovery percentage for WO 92/l0644 2 0 7 5 6 3 8 PCr/US91/0923~
~ 2 extraction of mally coal reserves by surface mining.
Surface mining does, however, have its limitations despite these cited advantages. The primary limiting factor relates to the depth of the 5 overburden. Once the coal seam reaches a certain depth below the surface, the amount of overburden that must be removed to reach the coal simply makes strip mining economically unfeasible.
When this occurs, large quantities of coal 10 may still remain in the ground. If rcr- i r recovery of this coal is to be achieved, other mining methods must be utilized. Underground mining application in such an instance is, typically, very limited. This may be due to a number of factors including the existence 15 of poor roof support conditions, the th;nn~cs of the seam and/or the presence of insufficient quantities of coal to warrant the large capital investments characteristic of underground operations.
Due to these rnn~idr-rations, auger mining is 20 often used to recover coal following a strip mining operation where the overburden becomes too costly to ~
rQmoVe. A large aUgQr is used to bore into the face of the seam and recover the coal from beneath the overburden. Advant~eollcly, auger mining is very 25 efficient providing more tons per man per day than any other form of state of the art mining t~rhn; qu~c.
Auger mining may also be initiated quickly and requires a relatively low capital expenditure when compared to surface and underground mining. Auger mining has also 30 been found to date to be the best method to use in relatively thin seams. Further, auger mining is safer than both surface and underground mining. Thus, auger mining may be used to effectively supplement a strip mining operation and recover small coal deposits that ,. , ~` ~

3 2~75~38 would otherwlse be left behlnd.
Auger mlnlng 18, however, also not wlthout lts dlsadvantages. Auger mlnlng provldes a relatlvely low total coal recovery. Coal recovery for the resource area being augered 18 usually less than about 35%. Some of the lost recovery ls due to the plllars of coal that are left standlng to support the overburden between ad~acent auger holes. The ma~orlty of the recovery shortfall, however, ls due to the llmlted penetratlon depths achlevable wlth even state of the art auger mlnlng equlpment .
More partlcularly, as penetratlon depths lncrease, a greater number of auger fllghts are regulred to convey the coal from the cuttlng head to the seam face for recovery.
Each fllght adds to the frlctlonal reslstance to the turnlng of the auger through contact wlth the walls of the bore hole.
Addltlonally, the longer the strlng of auger fllghts, the greater the welght of coal belng moved by the f llghts at any one t lme . As a result, it should be appreclated that auger power requlrements lncrease rapldly wlth the depth of auger 20 penet rat lon .
Due to the above conslderatlons, holes drllled by conventlonal augurlng equlpment are usually only of a depth of 150 feet wlth 200 feet belng rarely attalnable. Of coarse, any lncrease ln thls flgure 18 deslrable as lt would greatly lmprove the coal recovery rate from a resource area.
A mlnlng system and method has been recently developed to meet thls end. More partlcularly, thls system _ _ _ _ .. .. , . . , . . . _ _ .. _ . _ ..

2~75~38 and method ls dlsclosed 18 Unlted States Patent No. 5,112,111 lssued May 12 1992, entltled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR
CONTINUOUS MINING and asslçJned to the asslgnee of the present lnvent lon .
As best shown ln Flgure 1, the mlnlng system lncludes a contlnuous miner for cuttlng coal ~rom a coal seam.
The cut coal 18 fed by the mlner to a conveyor traln comprlsed of a serles of modular conveyor unlts serlally connected end-to-end. Thls system allows mlnlng to depths far ~cee~l1n~ the 150 to 200 feet po3slble wlth conventlonal auger mlnlng egulpment. In fact, depths of over 1300 feet have been reached .
Each conveyor unlt 18 supported on ground engaglng wheels 80 as to be adapted to follow the mlner as the mlner advances lnto the coal seam. A launch vehlcle 10 18 also lncorporated lnto thls new system. The launch vehlcle lncludes a conveyor mechanlsm for receivlng and conveylng aggregate coal dlscharged by the conveyor traln. The launch vehlcle also lncludes a gulde track for supportlng the end unlt of the conveyor traln and a conveyor unlt to be added to the traln. Further, lndlvldual drlve assemblles are provlded for ( 1 ) advanclng/wlthdrawlng the conveyor traln wlth the mlner and for (2) pushlng the new conveyor unit lnto g - ~ wlth the conveyor traln. Advantageously, the system allows the aggreS~ate coal to be cut and conveyed wlthout lnterrupt lon even when a conveyor unl~ 18 belng added to the traln. Hence, the system not only provldes ~ ~;

_ _ _ _ _ . _ , .. .. .. . .. . ... . . ..

207~63~

signiflcantly lmproved recovery from the resource Qrea but also operates more efflciently than augering eguipment and provides lmproved productivity. The present lnvention relates to a launch vehlcle for this type of mlning system.
SummarY of the Invent lon Accordlngly, lt 18 a prlmary object of the present lnvention to provide a launch vehicle for a mlning system lncluding a continuous mlner that feeds aggregate mQterial to a conveyor traln comprlslng a number of modular conveyor units serlally connected together.
The present lnventlon provides a launch vehicle for a cont inuous mining system including modular conveyor units that may be connected together to form a conveyor traln, comprising, a maln frame movably supportlng a rear portlon of sald conveyor train; conveylng means attached to sald maln frame for conveying aggregate materlal received from sald conveyor train to a delivery location; means attached to said main f rame for select ively advancing and withdrawlng sald conveyor traln; and means for adding a modular conveyor unlt to sald conveyor traln wlthout lnterrupt~ng the conveylng of aggregate material by said conveyor train.
The present lnvent ion also provides a launch vehicle for a contlnuous mlnlng system lncluding modular conveyor unlts that may be connected together to form a conveyor traln, comprislng~ a main frame movably supporting a rear portion of said conveyor traln; means attached to said maln frame for selectively advancing and wlthdrawlng sald conveyor traln; and .~

2~75~3~

recelvlng means attached to sald maln frame for contlnuously recelvlng aggregate materlal from sald conveyor traln as each sald modular conveyor unlt 18 added to sald conveyor traln.
The present lnvent lon also provldes a launch vehlcle ~or a contlnuous mlnlng system lncludlng modular conveyor unlts that may be connected together to form a conveyor traln, comprlslng a maln frame; means ~or addlng a modular conveyor unlt to sald conveyor traln; means ~or conveylng aggregate materlal from sald conveyor traln to a dellvery locatlon;
means for selectlvely advanclng and wlthdrawlng sald conveyor traln; and extenslble front end means selectlvely dlsplaceable between a fully retracted posltlon whereln sald extenslble front end means 18 fully recelved wlthln sald maln frame and a fully extended posltlon whereln sald extenslble front end means 18 extended ln front of sald maln frame to support a portlon of sald conveyor traln.
The present lnventlon further provldes a launch vehlcle ~or a contlnuous mlnlng system lncludlng modular conveyor unlts that may be connected together to form a conveyor traln; comprislng: a maln frame; means for conveylng aggregate materlal from sald conveyor traln to a dellvery locatlon mounted on sald maln ~rame; and means for addlng a modular conveyor unlt to sald conveyor traln durlng cuttlng and conveylng of aggregate materlal, sald addlng means lncludlng posltlonlng means selectlvely dlsplaceable between a flrst posltlon for holdlng a modular conveyor unlt to be 2~75638 6a subse~uently added to said conveyor traln ad~acent sald conveyor train and a second posltion for placlng said conveyor unit to be added to said conveyor train on sald launch vehlcle behind said conveyor train; said positioning means lncludlng a power source, a palr of take-up reels drlven by sald power source and mounted to said launch vehicle frame, one line attached to each take-up reel and means at a distal end of each l$ne for engaging a conveyor unlt.
Addltional advantages and other novel features of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon PY~mlnR~ion of the followlng or may be learned wlth the practlce o~ the lnventlon. The advantages of the lnventlon may be reall2ed and obtained by means of the instrumentalitles and combinations partlcularly pointed out in the RrpPn~iPd claims.
The launch vehicle is specifically adapted to allow the cutting and conveying of aggregate material to a delivery locat lon even as a modular conveyor unlt is being added to the conveyor train. Thls serves to enhance the operatlng efficiency of the mining system and signlflcantly lmprove product lvlt y .
The launch vehicle preferably is of shorter overall length 80 as to be more maneuverable when transporting to and operatively positlonlng at a mlnlng slte. Thls 19 achleved by providing the launch vehicle with an extensible f ront end that may be retracted durlng transport.

2~7~638 6b A drlve mechanlsm 18 provlded on the maln frame for selectively advanclng and wlthdrawlng the conveyor trRln.
Addltlonally, an lndependent system is provlded for addlng a modular conveyor unlt to the conveyor traln. Advantageously, due to the structural aL Ld~ of the launch vehlcle as descrlbed ln greater detall below, a modular conveyor unlt may be added to the conveyor traln as the mlnlng system contlnues to operate cuttlng and conveylng aggregate materlal. Thus, ~real" contlnuous mlnlng 18 provlded.
- More speclf lcally, the drlve assembly for selectlvely advanclng and wlthdrawlng the conveyor traln lncludes a palr of cooperatlng tandem drlve cyllnder sets; one tandem drlve cylinder set being mounted to the main f rame longitudinally allgned with and spaced from the other. Tne tandem cyllnders of each set are mounted to the main frame on opposlng sldes of the launch vehlcle conveyor. Thus, each tandem cyllnder set has a left slde and a rlght slde cyllnder.
E3oth of the tandem cyllnders of the forward set operate together as do both of the rearward ~ WO 92/l0644 ~ 7 ~ 6 3 8 P~/~S9~Jog~
.

cyl inders .
- The ends of each cylinder include a lever arm pusher unit for engaging a pin on a modular conveyor unit of the conveyor train. The pusher unit includes a 5 body and a substantially V-shaped arm pivotally mounted to the body. The pusher arm is selectively positionable in one of two opposing operative positions. In one position, the arm engages the pin of a modular conveyor unit in a manner to allow the drive 10 assembly to advance the conveyor train. In the other position the arm engages the pin of the modular conveyor unit so as to allow the drive assembly to aid in the withdrawing of the conveyor train from the coal face. In either operative position one end of the 15 pusher arm engages the body to hold the arm in position .
The forward and rearward drive cylinder sets ~re operated in a counterreciprocating manner. More 6pecifically, when the pusher arm units of the rearward 20 cylinders are engaging a pair of pins on each side of a modular Cullvuyur unit of the C~llv~ayul train, the rearward cylinders are actuated to advance (or withdraw) the conveyor unit/train into (or from) the 6eam. As this occurs, the forward cylinders are 25 recycled. When the rearward cylinders reach the end of their stroke, the pusher arm units of the forward cylinders are in position to engage a pin on each side of a modular conveyor unit of the conveyor train. The forward cylinders are then actuated to further advance 30 (or withdraw~ the conveyor train while the rearward cylinders are recycled. This method of advancing or withdrawing the conveyor train by the above-described shuttling operation of the tandem cylinder sets is repeated as nec~cs~ry to provide for the continuous WO 92/10644 2 0 7 ~ ~ 3 8 PCI/US91/0923~
. .

operation of the mining system as is described in more detail below.
The assembly f or adding a modular conveyor unit to the conveyor train includes a r-~hAni~r for 5 positioning the conveyor unit to be added on the launch vehicle behind the UUIlY~yuL train. The positioning ^hAn;cm may include a winch arrangement mounted to the overhead canopy of the launch vehicle. More particularly, the winch arrangement may include a 10 single power source or drive motor connected via a power output transmission to a pair of take-up reels.
One take-up reel is mounted to the canopy of the launch vehicle near the operator cab. The other take-up reel i5 mounted to the canopy of the launch vehicle forward 15 of the f irst one approximately the length of a conveyor unit. Each take-up reel includes a line having a proximal end connected to the reel so as to allow paying out or taking-up as desired. The distal end of each line is attached by means of a sling to a cross 2 O bar and hook arrangement . These hooks are adapted to engage and hold a conveyor unit.
In operation, the lines are taken-up on the reels to a raised position. A modular ~ U~lVt:yUL unit is then placed between the cross bars at the ends of the 25 lines by a front end loader. Next, the hooks are attached to the pins at the two ends of the COIlv~yu-unit which is then suspended on the winch lines as the front end loader is tl i R~n~aged and backed away. The conveyor unit is held by the lines overlying the 30 conveyor train until the train is advanced sufficiently into the seam to provide clearance for the positioning of the new modular conveyor unit onto the launch vehicle floor. During this time, the power and control lines of the conveyor unit being added to the train are ~WO92/l~644 2~7~B3~ PCIIUS9l/09234 coupled to the end unit of the train. This coupling initiates operation of the belt conveyor of the new conveyor unit . Once suf f icient clearance exists the winch lines are payed out until the modular conveyor 5 unit held in the hooks rests on the launch vehicle platform. The hooks are then released from the pins on the cu.,v~y~ unit and the lines taken-up back to the original position. The cross bars and hooks are then in position to receive from the front end loader the 10 next modular conveyor unit that is to be added to the conveyor train.
Once the new cu..v~:yul unit is positioned on the launch vehicle behind the Cullv~y~l train, a pushing r--h~ni c~r is actuated. More specifically, a pusher 15 cylinder is positioned on the launch vehicle behind the conveyor unit underneath the operator cab. A bumper on the forward end of the piston rod of this pusher cylinder engages the back of the conveyor unit. Thus, as the rod is extended from the cylinder, the conveyor 20 unit is advance~d into eny~ L with the rear of the oclllveyur train. Pins are then positioned in cooperating couplings to connect the new modular conveyor unit to the collv~yul unit at the end of the conveyor train. Once the coupling is completed, the 25 pusher cylinder of the pushing r--h;~ni sm is recycled to the retracted, starting position. The above-described steps are repeated as required to add additional conveyor units to the train.
In order to allow the effective application 30 of force to the conveyor train by the drive assembly of the launch vehicle as it aids in advancing (or withdrawing) the train, it is important that the launch vehicle be anchored to the ground. Any appropriate anchoring rC~Ah In;cm may be provided including stakes WO 92/l0644 2 0 7 5 6 3 8 PCr/US91/092~

driven into the ground to which the launch vehicle i5 rigidly attached.
The launch vehicle also includes a support 2nd guide - ~hAn; RTn in the form of a guide track 5 adapted to maintain the modular conveyor units on the launch vehicle frame straddling the Aggregate material conveyor. More specifically, the tracks may take the form of a pair of spaced floor grate sections adapted to support the ground engaging wheels of the modular 10 cul.vr3yur units . A pair of guide rails adj acent and outside the sides of the aggregate conveyor extend upwardly from the floor grate sections toward the inner surfaces of the ground ~n~JAgi nq wheels . Should a CUIIV~:Y~L unit be slightly out of alignment these rails 15 engage the inner surfaces of the wheels to realign the unit of the CullV~:yul train as n~cr~CAry. Thus, proper alignment is insured. Of course, by maintaining the end of the Cuilv yul train overlying the launch yehicle Cu~lvt:yul, aggregate material from the C~-lv-:yUL train is 20 received and cu--v~yed by the launch vehicle conveyor even as a modular CUIIv~:yùl unit is being added to the train .
More particularly, aggregate material from the last unit of the C~llVl:yUL train is received 25 directly by the launch vehicle Cullvc:yuL until such time as it is intercepted by the conveyor on the modular unit being added to the train. In accordance with the present invention, the ~ u~lv~yur on the newly added modular unit is already operating at the time of 3 0 interception . Thus, the intercepted aggregate material is advanced by the UUIlV~yclL of the newly added modular unit until it is once again discharged onto the conveyor of the launch vehicle. The conveyor of the launch vehicle then cûnvey6 the aggregate material tû a ~ WO 92/10644 2 0 7 ~ 6 3 ~ PCr/US92/09234 discharge conveyor. The discharge conveyor conveys the material to a delivery location such as a stockpile or bed of a truck that hauls the coal to another site.
Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the present 5 invention allows the conveyance of aggregate material even during the time that the ~.ullVeyUL train is being lengthened by the addition of another modular unit.
It should also be appreciated that the launch vehicle includes a --c hqn; ~ allowing it to be advanced 10 across the bench to a new mining site. More specifically, the launch vehicle may include a lift system that lifts the launch vehicle frame above the ground so that the frame is solely supported on two skids spaced along the base of the frame. Heavy 15 eguipment such as a bulldozer may then be used to push the launch vehicle on the skids to the new mining location. Alternatively, auger skids of a type known in the art may be utilized to move the launch vehicle to the next mining location. ûnce the launch vehicle 20 is properly positioned for mining at the new location, the lift r- ' Ani Fm may again be activated to lower the frame into engagement with the ground. The lowering of the frame not only positions the guide tracks at the proper height for support of the modular conveyor units 25 but also serves to further anchor the machine so as to hold its position when the drive - ~ qn i F'n is activated to aid in the advance/withdrawal of the conveyor train.
In order to allow operation of the mining system on a narrower bench and to make it easier to 30 transport the launch vehicle from one mine location to another, the launch vehicle may also be es~uipped with - an extensible front end. More particularly, the launch vehicle many include an extensible framework having a series of track members adapted to support the mining WO 92/l0644 2 0 75 ~ 3 8 PCr/US91/092~

machine or conveyor units of the conveyor train. The track members are received in sliding, interdigitating engagement with a second series of cooperating track members held stationary on the main frame. A pair of 5 actuator cylinders are connected to the extensible framework. These actuator cylinders are adapted to disp~ace the framework between two operative positions.
~.
In the first operative position, the extensible framework is retracted so that the first 10 series of track members are received between the second series of track members on the main frame. Thus, the overall length of the launch vehicle is shortened to aid in transportation to and placement at the mining site. In the second operative position, the extensible 15 ~L OLk is extended so that the first series of track members extend outwardly from the second series (eg.
even beneath the highwall face on narrow benches as shown in Figure 1). The extended track members of the first series serve as a stable base or floor to support 20 the CO~lVeYUL units of the C-JIIV~YUL train. This is a particularly important concern in the area of the highwall face where water tends to collect, significantly softening floor conditions. When withdrawing a conveyor train from underground, the 25 space between each of the first and second series of track members also advantageously serves to provide a waste area where dirt and debris may fall from the conveyor units before the conveyor units are actually positioned upon the main frame of the launch vehicle.
still other objects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in this art from the following description wherein there is shown and ~esc~ preferred: ' ';r nt of this invention, ~ WO 92/10644 13 2 ~ 7 5 S 3 ~ PCI/US91/09234 simply by way of illustration of one of the modes best suited to carry out the invention. As it will be realized, the invention is capable of other different - ~mhofl;- ~s and its several details are capable of 5 modification in various, obvious aspects all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions will be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
Brief DescriDtion of the ~rawina The ~ nying drawing incorporated and forming a part of this specification illustrates several aspects of the present invention and together with the description serves to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawing:
Figure 1 is a schematical view showing the mining system in which the launch vehicle of the present invention is integrated;
Figure 2a is a partially sectional schematic view showing a modular u.lveyo~ unit resting on the 20 frame of the launch vehicle;
Figure 2b is a partially broken away, detailed side elevational view of the pusher arm unit adapted to operatively connect one of the reciprocating drive cylinders to an individual conveyor unit;
Figure 2c is a detailed side elevational, schematical view of the pusher arm unit showing the pusher arm pivoted down and passing under a pin on a Cullv~:yur unit;
Figures 3a and 3b are schematical side 30 elevational views adapted to illustrate the advancing of the ~u~veyol train by the shuttling action of the pair of cooperating tandem drive cylinder sets as well as the addition of a modular conveyor unit to the 4 ~ 0 7 5 6 3 8 PCr/US91/0923~
~ ~ 14 train;
Figure 4a is a top plan view of the ext~nc;hle front of the launch vehicle;
Figure 4b is a detailed front end view of the 5 extensible front shown in Figure 4a;
Figure 5 is a schematical representation showing the r--h~n;- "~ adapted for positioning a vt:~u~ unit on the launch vehicle; and Figure 6 is a partially perspective 10 schematical view showing a front end loader preparing to lift a modular ~ul-v~yul unit from the ground.
Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred ~Tnh9~1;r 1 of the invention, an example of which is illustrated in the A'~_ -nying 15 drawing.
Det~; l ed Des~rintiQn of the Invention Reference is now made to Figures 2a, 3a and 3b schematically showing the launch vehicle 10 of the present invention. As indicated above with reference 20 to Figure 1, the launch vehicle 10 is adapted for utilization with a continuous mining system including a continuous mining machine M of a type known in ~he art.
The mining machine M includes a rotating cutter head drum D supporting a series of cutting bits on helical 25 flights (not shown). The cutter head drum D is rotatably mounted on a vertically moveable boom that is pivotally mounted on the main frame member of the mining machine M. As also shown, the mining machine is supported for ~ "e,-t along the floor of the mine by a 30 pair of crawler assembLies N.
In operation, the mining machine M is preferably advanced into the seam face S with the boom raised and the cutter head drum D rotating. As the 2~75638 cuttlng beglns at the top level or roof llne of the seam, the mlnlng machlne M 18 advanced ~urther forward and the boom 18 gradually lowered. As the minlng machlne M is advanced and the boom 18 ralsed and lowered, coal C 18 cut from the seam face S. The aggregate coal C 18 then collected by means o~ a conventlonal gathering head that serves to dellver the aggregate coal to a fllght conveyor F.
As shown ln Flgure l, the f llght conveyor F dellvers the aggregate coal C to the lead conveyor unlt o~ a conveyor traln generally deslgnated by reference letter T. The conveyor traln also lncludes a serles o~ modular conveyor unlts U ldentlcal to one another that are releasably coupled together ln serles behlnd the lead conveyor unit.
As best descrlbed ln Unlted States 5,112,111 each of the conveyor unlts U includes a maln structural frame supported for r- v~ t. on the ground by a serles of wheels W.
Each conveyor unit U also lncludes a centrally dlsposed, longltudlnally extendlng lncllned conveyor. The conveyor, whlch 18 preferably of the belt type, operates to convey aggregate coal C recelved at the low end to the hlgh end where lt 18 dlscharged from one conveyor unlt to the next conveyor unit in the serles. ~ach conveyor unlt also lncludes its own motor for drlvlng the belt conveyor held thereln. The unlts U
of the conveyor train T are also lnterconnected by means of control llnes that are flrst routed from a power source such as a generator (not shown) on the bench to WO 92/10644 2 ~ 7 5 ~ 3 8 PCr/US91~0923~

the mining machine r~ and back through the individual co"~/eyul units U. Accordingly, the motors of the ~u~.veyoL units are connected in series for simultaneous operation at a substantially consistent speed.
Each of the CO~IV~yuL units ~U also includes a coupling - -hAni F'n G specifically adapted to allow the units to be coupled together in a rigid manner so that the units of the train T remain in completely straight alignment behind the mining machine ~1. Such a coupling 10 r-ch~ni c~ may, for example, include cooperating clevises on each conveyor unit that are received together in an interdigitating manner and connected by means of a pin.
As should be appreciated from viewing Figure 15 1, the Cc,-vt:yuL train T in~ F~ as many CullvtyuI units U as are nec~F~sAry to have the train extend out of the seam to the launch vehicle 10 on the bench B. As shown, preferably the bench is undercut below the bottom of the seam so as to receive the launch vehicle 20 or platform 10.
As best shown in Figures 2a, 3a and 3b, the launch vehicle 10 includes a main structural r. JL}.
12 that supports an aggregate material conveyor 14, preferably of the belt type. This conveyor 14 receives 25 the aggregate coal C from the last l,~llVeyUL unit U of the train T. The coal C is then delivered by the a~yL~te material CO~lV~yOL 14 up an incline 16, beneath the operator control cab 18, to a discharge conveyor 20. The discharge conveyor 20 is also 30 inclined and may, for example, be utilized to convey the aggregate coal C to a delivery location such as the bed of a truck which is used to haul the coal away for stockpiling or further processing.
As also shown in Figures 2a, 3a, and 3b, the ,~ ~

WO 92/l0~ 7 ~ ~ 3 8 PCIIUS91109234 launch vehicle 10 includes a safety canopy 22. The safety canopy 22 is connected to the main structural Lr '~Lk 12 by a series of spaced support posts 24 and braces 26. Two series of jacks 28 are provided spaced 5 along the length of the launch vehicle 10~ The jacks 28 are supported on skids 30 and may be actuated to lift the main framework 12 of the launch vehicle 10 from the bench B so as to allow ~ v ~ of the launch vehicle by heavy equipment or by auger skids to a 10 mining location as described in greater detail below.
As also shown in Figure 2a, the launch vehicle 10 includes a pair of spaced guide tracks 31 in the form of spaced floor grate sections that are adapted to support the ground engaging wheels W of the 15 modular conveyor units U. Additionally, a pair of guide rails 32 are provided adjacent and outside the sides of the aggregate conveyor 14. These guide rails 32 extend upwardly above the floor grate sections 31 and outwardly from the aggregate material Cullvt:yur 14 20 toward the inner surfaces of the ground engaging wheels W of the conveyor units U. In the event a CU1IV~YUL
unit U is positioned on the launch vehicle 10 slightly out of alignment with the aggregate material CUIIV~YUL
14, the inner surfaces of the wheels will engage the 25 rails 32 thereby realigning the modular L:ullv~yùl unit U
with the conveyor train T as n~c~Cc;~ry to insure proper alignment. Advantageously, by maintaining proper alignment of the end unit of the Cu.,vtyuL train T so that it overlies the launch vehicle conveyor 14, 30 aggregate material from the ~_OIIV~UL train is received and conveyed by the launch vehicle conveyor at all times of operation.
As best shown in Figures 3a and 3b, the launch vehicle 10 also includes a drive assembly, WO 92/10644 2 0 ~ ~ 6 3 8 PCI/US91/0923~

generally designated; b~y reference numeral 34. The drive as6embly 34 is specifically adapted for selectively aiding in the advAnc~ ~ or withdrawal of the conveyor train T. More specifically, the drive 5 assembly 34 includes a pair of cooperating tandem drive cylinder sets 36, 38. Only one drive cylinder of each set 36, 38 is shown in Figures 3a and 3b as the tandem cylinders of each set are mounted to the main framework 12 on opposing sides of the launch vehicle conveyor 14 10 (see also Figure 2a). As shown, the forward tandem drive cylinder set 36 is mounted longi~ nAl ly aligned with and spaced from the rearward drive cylinder set 38. Further, as also made clear from viewing Figure 2a, each tandem cylinder set 36, 38 has a left side and 15 right side cylinder. Both of the tandem cylinders of the forward set 36 operate together. Similarly, both of the tandem cylinders of the rearward set 38 operate together .
- Each drive cylinder of sets 36, 38 includes 20 an extensible cylinder rod; 40. A pusher arm unit 42 is mounted to a distal end of each cylinder rod 40. As best shown in Figures 2b and 2c, each pusher arm unit 42 includes a substantially V-shaped pusher arm 44 pivotally mounted to a base 46 by means of a pivot pin 25 48. As described in greater detail below, the pusher arm 44 may be selectively positioned in a first position (shown in full line in Figure 2b) for engaging a cooperating pin P on a conveyor unit U and advancing the collv~yul train T into the coal seam S.
30 Alternatively, the pusher arm 44 may be selectively positioned in a second, opposite position (shown in phantom line in Figure 2b) for also engaging a cooperating pin P and withdrawing the conveyor train T
from the coal seam S.
~ .

WO 92/l0644 ~! O i ~ 6 3 g PCl/USg~109234 Advantageously, the drive assembly 34 is sufficiently powerful to aid in advancing (withdrawing) the conveyor train T and mining machine M into (from~
the seam face F. This is a particularly important 5 advantage to the present system as in many mining areas soft bottom conditions, such as fire clay, exist. The crawler assemblies N on a conventional mining machine M
tend to dig ruts in the soft bottom until the main frame of the mining machine "high centers" and comes to 10 rest on the undisturbed bottom material between the ruts. Accordingly, continuous mining machines M have a propensity to become stuck where soft bottom conditions are present. As such, mining of these types of seams was often avoided in the past. In contrast, with the 15 present system, mining of these seams is now possible.
Thus, the present apparatus effectively opens new areas for mining thereby increasing recoverable coal reserves .
In order to insure that the launch vehicle 10 20 remains stationary as the drive assembly 34 is operated to aid in the adv~n~ ~ or withdrawal of the conveyor train T and continuous miner N, the launch vehicle may be anchored to the bench B. This may be achieved in any manner known in the art. one approach is to drill 25 a series of holes down into the bench B. Steel pipes up to six inches in diameter may then be ~Yt~n~d down into the holes and a taut steel cable may then be attached between each pipe and the launch vehicle 10.
Together, the cables and pipes serve to effectively 30 hold the launch vehicle 10 in position during operation of the drive assembly 34.
The launch vehicle 10 of the present invention also includes a ~ ^h~niFm for adding individual modular conveyor units U to the conveyor WO 92/l0644 ~2 0 7 5 ~ 3 8 PCr/US91/092 train T as it is advanced into the coal seam. The n;~r for adding a modular conveyor unit is generally designated by referance numeral 52 and best shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 5. A5 best shown 5 schematically in Figure 5, the conveyor unit adding r~^hAni C~n 52 includes a power source or drive motor 54 connected via a power output transmission (not shown) to a pair of take-up reels 56. Each take-up reel 56 is rotatably mounted upon a shaft 58 held in a cradle 59 10 mounted to the overlying canopy 22. One take-up reel 56 is mounted adjacent the operator cab 18. The other t2ke-up reel 56 is mounted forward of the first one approximately the length of a Cullv~yùL unit (e.g. 45 feet) .
A line or heavy duty cable 60 is moun~ed to each take-up reel 56. More particularly, the proximal end of each line 60 is attached to the associated take-up reel 56 so that rotation of the reel pays out or takes-up the line. The distal end of each line 60 is 20 attached by means of a yoke 62 to a sling 64 that holds a cross bar 66. A pair of downwardly extending hooks 68 are attached to the cross bar 66 at each end. The hooks 68 are adapted to engage the pins P at the ends of a CCIIIV~YOL unit U to be SllcpPn~ by the winch lines 25 60. Of course, any other a~,ulu~Liate arrangement could be utilized that is adapted for connecting the winch lines 60 to a conveyor unit U.
Additionally, the launch vehicle 10 may be equipped with an extensible front end generally 30 designated by reference numeral 72 and shown in Figures 1, 4a and 4b. Advantageously, the extensible front end 72 allows the launch vehicle 10 to be positioned for operation even on relatively narrow benches B. Additiûnally, when fully retracted, it ~ WO 92/10644 2 0 7 5 li ~ 8 PCr/USgl/09234 should be appreciated that the launch vehicle 10 is significantly shorter in length thereby making it easier to transport the launch vehicle from one mine location to another. Further, the reduced length makes 5 it easier to move the launch vehicle 10 along the bench B by means of heavy equipment such as a bulldozer from one mining position to the next.
As best shown in Figure 4a, the extensible front end 72 includes an extensible framework 74 having 10 a series of track members 76 adapted to support the mining machine M or UullV~yuL units U of the conveyor train T. The track members 76 are each received in sliding, interdigitating engagement with a second series of cooperatiDg track members 78 held stationary 15 on the mainframe 12. A pair of actuator cylinders 80 are connected to the extensible LL UL~ 74 by means of yokes 82. These actuator cylinders 80 are adapted to displace the extensible framework 74 between two operative positions.
In the first operative position, the extensible LL ..JLk 74 is retracted so that the first 6eries of track members 76 are received between the second series of track members 78 on the mainframe 12.
Thus, the overall length of the launch vehicle is 25 shortened. In the second operative position, shown in full line in Figure 4a, the extensible framework 74 is extended so that the first series of track members 76 extend outwardly from the second series 78. The extended track members 78 serve as a stable base or 30 floor to support the conveyor units U of the CU~IV~YUL
train .
As shown in Figure 11 it is even possible to ex~end the extensible framework 74 and track members 76 beneath the highwall face. This is an area of the mine WO 92/10644 ~ ) 7 5 6 3 8 PCI/US91/0923~
.
. --floor where water often collects significantly softening the floor conditions. Over time, such softened conditions could lead to conveyor units U
settling down and bonr-; nq mired in the bottom 5 material. This is a particularly troublesome problem where fire clay conditions exist. Advantageously, by incorporating the extensible front end and utilizing it as a support structure for the cul.ve~uL units in the area adjacent the highwall face, this problem is 10 significantly reduced and in most instances avoided.
Operation of the preferred ` ~ L of the present invention will now be described in detail.
Following the completion of surface mining, the bench B
is prepared with a b~ lnzor andJor other heavy 15 oSr'; L by undercutting below the bottom of the seam floor a sufficient distance for the proper positioning of the launch vehicle 10, if possible. The launch vehicle 10 is then transported to the mining site and positioned on the bench B. During transport, the 20 extensible front end 72 is fully retracted so as to reduce the length of the launch vehicle as much as possible for ease in hAn-ll ;nq.
Next, the launch vehicle 10 is moved directly into position for mining by means of heavy oqn; -nt 25 such as a bulldozer. During this operation, the launch vehicle 10 is raised on the jacks 28 50 as to be resting on the skids 30 with the LL J~}. 12 raised f rom contact with the bench B .
Once the launch vehicle 10 is properly 30 positioned for mining, the jacks 28 are retracted until the main structural framework 12 rests securely on the bench B. If desired, the extensible framework 74 may then be extended so that the first series of tracks 76 extend, for example, underneath the highwall as shown WO 92/l0644 2 ~ 7 ~ ~ 3 ~ PCr/US91/09234 in Figure l. There, the tracks 76 provide a firm, stable base or floor to support the mining machine M
and cv--v~yc,~ units U of the train T as they advance underground into the seam.
- In order to insure that the launch vehicle 10 - remains stationary as the drive assembly 34 is operated to aid in the advance of the conveyor train T and continuous miner M, the launch vehicle may also be anchored to the bench B. This may be achieved in any lO manner known in the art. One approach is to drill a series of holes down into the bench. Steel pipes Inot shown) may then be extended down into the holes and a taut steel cable (not shown) is then attached between each pipe and the launch vehicle 10. Together, the 15 cables and pipes serve to effectively hold the launch vehicle in position during operation of the drive assembly 34.
The mining machine M and the lead conveyor unit U of the ~vllvr_yvl train are preferably positioned 2 0 on the launch vehicle 10 prior to moving the launch vehicle into position on the bench B. With the crawler asse_blies N of the mining machine M aligned with and resting in the guide tracks 31, the boom of the mining machine is raised to align the cutter head drum D with 25 the top of the seam. The cutter head drum D, gathering head and flight C~JIIVt~Y-JL F of the mining machine M are all then activated. Next, the crawler ~cs~mhl iec N are engaged to advance the mining machine M toward the face and into the seam. The mining machine M is operated in 30 a manner known in the art from the operator cab 18 to win aggregate coal C from the seam face S. As the mining machine M is being advanced into the seam the lead conveyor unit U follows along in the guide tracks 31.

WO 92/10644 ~ Q 7 ~ ~ 3 8 PCI/US9~/0923 As the mining machine ~ advances a front end loader L may be utilized to lift a modular conveyor unit U and hold i'c for connection to the hooks 68 of the conveyor lift - --h~ni cr 52 as shown in Figures 3a 5 and 5 . As shown in Figures 5 and 6 ! the conveyor unit U is held by the front end loader L~;~in a position with the ends of the unit directly unaer the cross bars 66.
The hooks 68 are then attached to the four pins P
adj acent the corners of the conveyor unit U . The winch 10 lines 60 are then taken-up slightly to remove all 61ack. The front end loader L is then disengaged from the new c.-.ve~,r unit U (note action arrow Q) that is now suspended by the winch line6 60, As the mining machine M advances, the control lines of the new 15 modular Col,V~y-,L unit U held on the winch lines 60 are connected to the control line6 of the last conveyor unit of the conveyor train T ~in this instance, the lead ~ u~v~yO~ unit) . This initiates operation of the belt conveyor on the new ~llvc:yCl unit U. Again, 20 throughout this operation it should be realized that the mining of coal is continuously taking place.
Once the mining ~achine ~ is sufficiently advanced into the seam to provide clearance on the launch vehicle 1~, the drive motor 54 is actuated so as 25 to evenly pay-out the winch lines 60 and lower the new c~,.,veyu~ unit U until the ground engaging wheels W rest upon the guide tracks 31 (note action arrow H in Figure 5). It should be appreciated that the wheels W
straddle the launch vehicle conveyor 14 (see Figures 2a 30 and 5). Next, the hook6 68 are manually disengaged from the pins P and the winch lines 60 are taken-up to the original raised position for subsequent receipt of the next conveyor unit U.
A pusher cyl inder 8 8, mounted to the ~ WO 92/l0644 2 0 7 ~ ~ 3 ~ Pcr~usglJl)9~

framework 12 of the launch vehicle 10 beneath the operator cab 18 is then activated to push (note action arrow X in Figure 3b) the new conveyor unit U into engagement with the rear of the conveyor train T
5 (again, in this instance into engagement with the lead ~ UllYt:yOL unit directly behind the mining machine) . As shown, the pusher cylinder 88 includes an extensible rod 89 having a bumper 90 at the distal end that engages the rear of the new conveyor unit U. This 10 serves to drive the new conveyor unit U into engagement with the rear of the CullV~yOI train T where it may be coupled thereto in a manner described above. Once the new conveyor unit U is coupled to the end of the CUIIV~:YUL train T, the pusher cylinder 88 is recycled to 15 the fully retracted position shown in Figure 3a.
It should also be appreciated that throughout the operation of adding a conveyor unit U to the conveyor train T, aggregate coal is being cut and ~_ullveye~ cont;n~lo~lcly for recovery.
Nore particularly, as the first conveyor unit U is being positioned on the launch vehicle 10, ayyLc:yclte coal cut from the seam S by the mining machine N is being passed by the flight conveyor F to the lead COnVt!yùL unit of the conveyor train T. From 25 there the coal is delivered to each Eu~re~ i n~ unit U
of the CcllveyuL train T until it is discharged by the end conveyor unit of the train onto the receiving ~ :yoL 14 of the launch vehicle 10. The receiving conveyor 14 then conveys the aggregate coal under the 30 new conveyor unit U, that is to be added to the train, to the discharge conveyor 20. The discharge conveyor 20 conveys the coal C to a delivery location, such as the bed of a coal truck (not shown) for haulage to a stock pile or for further processing.

WO 92/l0644 2 0 7 ~ ~ 3 8 PCr/US91/0923~

As the new conveyor unit U is positioned by the lift r- ' ~n;~m 52 onto the guide tracks 31 and advanced by the pusher cylinder 88 toward the rear of the cu--veyoL train T, the receiving end of the new 5 conveyor unit begins to intercept the coal C being discharged by the conveyor of the end unit of the ~UIIV~y~L train. As previously described, the conveyor of the new unit is already operating when this occurs.
Accordingly, at interception the coal C is cullveyed 10 along the ~ullVeyuL of the new conveyor unit to the discharge end where it is still delivered to the receiving ~UIlV~yoL 14 of the launch vehicle 10. From there the aggregate coal is cullveyed to the delivery location as described above.
Once the new CO~Iveyul unit U is rigidly coupled to the rear ~_ullVeyOL unit of the train T the reciprocating drive assembly 34 may be operated to aid in advancing the mining machine M and ~ullveyu~ train T
into the coal seam 5.
More particularly, as best shown in Figure 3b, when the pushing cylinder 88 is fully extended to connect the ~;ullveyuI unit U the lead pins P at each side of the cullveyu~ unit U are in position to be engaged by the pusher arms 44 of the fully retracted 25 rearward tandem drive cylinders 38. The rods 40 of the cylinders 38 are then extended synchronously and in tandem to aid in adYancing the cG,.veyol train T and mining machine M into the seam face S. The pushing force is applied through the arms 44 that are 30 positioned to have an upright, leading section 47 for engaging a rearwardly facing portion of a pin P and a horizontally extending trailing section 49 that engages the base 46 to hold the upright section 47 firmly in pûsition .

WO 92/10644 ~ PCr~US91Jo9234 As the rearward drive cylinders 38 are extended, the forward tandem cylinders 36 are recycled from the fully extended position to the fully retracted position. Thus, while the rearward tandem cylinders 38 5 aid in advancing the cul.v~yul train T and mining machine M by operation in the direction of action arrow Y, the forward tandem cylinders 36 are moving in the reverse direction and recycled as indicated by action arrow V.
It should be appreciated that the pusher arms 44 of the forward tandem cylinders 36 pivot down under the pins P on the sides of the ~ullv~yol units U as they move in the direction of action arrow V so as to allow passage. More specifically, as best shown in Figure lS 2c, each pusher arm 44 is mounted on a pivot pin 48 in base 46. Accordingly, when the rear face engages a pin P, the pusher arm 44 is cammed downwardly and pivots as shown by the action arrow J to allow passage of the arm under the pin. After passing under the pin P, the arms 20 44 of the forward tandem cylinders 36 are manually returned to the upright, pin engaging and pushing position shown in Figure 2b. This may be done, for example, by pushing downwardly on the trailing section 49 and pivoting the arms 44 about the pivot pin 48.
As the rearward tandem cylinders 38 approach their ~ ~ limit (see Figure 3a), the already fully retracted forward tandem cylinders 36 are activated to begin oYtPn~lin7 the cylinder rods 40 in the direction of action arrow Z. As this is done, the arms 44 of the 30 forward tandem cylinders 36 engage the int~ te pins P on the next-to-last conveyor unit U of the conveyor train T. Continued extension of the forward tandem drive cylinders 36 serves to continue to aid in the advance of the mining machine M and conveyor train .

WO 92/l0644 2 0 7 513 3 8 PCr/US91/D9~
'28 T. As the forward tandem cylinders 36 are extended in the direction o~ action arrow Z and aid in the advance, the rearward tandem cylinders 38 are recycled and move in the opposite direction as shown by action arrow R.
5 A6 already described above, when the arms 44 of the rearward tandem cylinder5 38 come into engagement with a pin P, they are pivoted downwardly to allow passage under the pin. After passing under two pins P, the arms 44 of the rearward tandem cylinders 38 are 10 manually returned to the upright, pin engaging and pushing position shown in Figure 2b in the above-described manner.
As the forward tandem cylinder set 36 approaches its limit of r ~ ~, the already fully 15 recycled rearward tandem cylinders 38 begin to extend the cylinder rods 40 until the arms 44 of the rearward cylinders 38 engage the next set of pins P at the rear of the ~u~veyus unit U. The shuttling operation of the two tandem sets of cylinders 36, 38 then continues in 2 0 the manner described f or as many conveyor units U as are added to the ullve:~u ~ train during the advance into the coal seam. Of course, as should be appreciated, the pusher arms 44 o~ each tandem cylinder set 36, 38 engage every other pin on the side o~ the conveyor 25 units U. Further, the pins P must be properly positioned on the Co~lVeyOs units U so as to have equal spacing between each pin cosLe~onding to the sparin~c between and movement range of the tandem cylinder sets 36, 38. Additionally, it should be noted that 3 0 throughout the operation of advancing the mining machine M and conveyor train T, coal is being u~.,ve~ed without interruption.
once the maximum desired mining depth is reached, the conveyor train T and mining machine M may ~ WO 92/I0644 2 0 7 ~ ~ 3 ~ PCI`IUS9~109234 be ~acked from the seam. This process is done a conveyor unit U at a time.
More particularly, the arms 44 of the pusher arm units 42 are disengaged from the cooperating pins P
5 of the CoIIvt:yu~ units U resting on the launch vehicle 10. The arms 44 are then pivoted over to the phantom line position shown in Figure 2b (note action arrow K) 50 that the trailing sections 49 extend vertically and the leading sections 47 extend horizontally. Next the 10 tandem drive cylinders 36, 38 are manipulated so as to } ring one drive set of arms 44 into engagement with the sides of the pins P nearest the coal seam face S. The other set of arms 44 is driven to a fully recycled position. The drive assembly 34 is then utilized in 15 conjunction with the crawler assemblies N of the mining machine M to back the Cu--v~:yC~r train T and mining machine N from the seam.
More specifically, when the forward tandem cylinder set 36 is fully extended and engaging pins P
20 at each side of a Cullvt:yur unit U, the cylinder rods 40 are retracted. This action serves to aid the mining machine in moving the coIlv~yur train away from the seam face and back toward the operator cab 18. Of course, in accordance with the shuttling operation of the 25 tandem cylinder sets, 36, 38, as the forward cylinder set 36 is being retracted, the rearward cylinder set 38 is being extended. During extension of the rearward cylinder set 38, the arms 44 are cammed under any pins P with which they come into contact without adversely 30 effecting --~. t of the CoIlv~yu, train.
As the forward l ullv~yur set 36 approaches its limit of - v. t. by ~e~ ; ng fully retracted, the rearward cylinder set 38 begins retracting.
Accordingly, the arms 44 of the rearward cylinder set WO 92t10644 2 0 ~ 5 ~ 3 ~ PCr/US91/0923~

38 are positioned to ,engage pins P on a conveyor unit U
80 as to provide assistance in withdrawing the conveyor train T and mining machine M from the coal seam.
Hence, the trailing sections 49 are positioned to 5 extend vertically with the leading sections 47 engaging - the base 46. As this is done, the forward cylinders 36 are re-extended (recycled~, once again, with the arms 44 of the forward units pivoting down beneath and passing under any pins P that they engage during the 10 process. The arms 44 are then manually reset as ~lready described to engage the pins P as reguired.
This shuttling operation of the cylinder sets 36, 38 continues until a Cu.,vt yuL unit U reaches the rearmost end of the launch vehicle 10. At that point in time, 15 the rearmost Cc..vt:yuL unit U is disconnected from the ~ ol.v~:yul train T and a front end loader L is utilized to remove that ~ conn~cted cu"vey~L unit from the launch vehicle 10.
The process of removing the ~ ullV~yUL units U
20 of the ~_u~ve~yur train T continues in this manner until the lead c;u~,vey~r unit and mining machine M are positioned once again on the guide tracks 31 of the launch vehicle 10. At that point in time the launch vehicle 10 is released from the anchoring system (e.g., 25 anchoring cables may be rli~connected from the launch vehicle and the anchoring pipes may be removed from the bench). The launch vehicle frame 12 is then raised from the bench B by means of the j acks 28 . Heavy eguipment such as a bulldozer is then utilized to push 30 the launch vehicle 10 on the skids 30 to the next mining location. Alternatively, the launch vehicle 10 is eSIuipped with auger skids for this purpose. If desired to aid in the movement of the launch vehicle 10, the extensible front end 72 may first be fully ~ WO 92/10644 2 Q 7 5 6 3 8 Pcr~usglJo9~

retracted. More specifically, the cylinders 80 are actuated so as to retract the extensible framework 74 until it is fully received within the main framework 12 of the launch vehicle 10.
Once positioned to continue mining, the launch vehicle framework 12 is again lowered by the jacks 28 until it engages with the bench B. The anchoring system is then reset, the extensible framework 74 is re-extended if desired, and mining 10 operations proceed in the manner described above.
In summary, numerous benefits result from employing the concepts of the present invention. The launch vehicle 10 may be utilized in a system to provide continuous, uninterrupted cutting and conveying 15 of coal from a seam face so as to ~-~;mi ~e production.
Advantageously, the cutting and conveying of the aggregate material continues even as additional modular conveyor units U are being added to the conveyor train T. Further, the launch vehicle 10 includes a drive 20 assembly 34 that aids in selectively advancing or withdrawing the mining machine and the COIlVeyuL train into or from the coal seam. This is a major advantage in areas with soft bottom material such as fire clay.
In fact, the launch vehicle 10 allows efficient mining 25 of such areas which was not truly possible in the past.
Further, since this is achieved without tearing up the mine floor, recovered product is not contaminated with bottom material.
The foregoing description of a preferred 30 embodiment of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations arê pOssiblê in light Of thê above WO 92/10644 PCr/US91/0923~_ r7 ~ 6` 3 8 -- ~

teachings. For example, the positioning unit 52 may be a hydraulic cylinder set rather than the winch system described. The ` ' i - Ls were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of 5 the invention and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various r~`~orlir~nts and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations 10 are within the scope of the invention as detPrminP-l by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and eq~lit~b y ~ le~.

.

Claims (23)

THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION IN WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:

1. A launch vehicle for a continuous mining system including modular conveyor units that may be connected together to form a conveyor train, comprising:
a main frame movably supporting a rear port ion of said conveyor train;
conveying means attached to said main frame for conveying aggregate material received from said conveyor train to a delivery location;
means attached to said main frame for selectively advancing and withdrawing said conveyor train; and means for adding a modular conveyor unit to said conveyor train without interrupting the conveying of aggregate material by said conveyor train.

2. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, wherein said aggregate material conveying means is a belt conveyor.

3. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, wherein said means for selectively advancing and withdrawing said conveyor train includes means for engaging a modular conveyor unit of said conveyor train and means for driving said conveyor train through said engaging means.

4. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 3, wherein said engaging means includes a pusher arm unit for connecting said driving means to said modular conveyor unit of said conveyor train.

5. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 3, wherein said driving means includes two sets of tandem drive cylinders, each set having one drive cylinder on each side of said conveying means mounted to said main frame.

6. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 5, wherein said drive cylinders of said two sets of tandem drive cylinders mounted on each side of said conveying means are longitudinally aligned and spaced from one another.

7. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, wherein said means for adding a modular conveyor unit to said conveyor train includes means for pushing said modular conveyor unit into engagement with said conveyor train.

8. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 7, wherein said means for adding a modular conveyor unit to said conveyor train further includes positioning means selectively displaceable between a first position for holding a conveyor unit to be subsequently added to said conveyor train adjacent said conveyor train on said launch vehicle and a second position for placing said conveyor unit to be added to said conveyor train on said launch vehicle behind said conveyor train.

9. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 8, wherein said positioning means includes a power source, a pair of take-up reels driven by said power source, one line attached to each reel and a cross bar, including a pair of hooks for engaging said conveyor unit, mounted on a distal end of each line.

10. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, further including means for anchoring said launch vehicle to the ground.

11. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, further including extensible front end means comprising an extensible framework received in sliding engagement with said main frame and means for displacing said extensible framework between extended and retracted positions.

12. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 11, further including means for supporting and guiding modular conveyor units on said main frame above said aggregate material conveying means.

13. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, further including means for supporting and guiding modular conveyor units on said main frame above said aggregate material conveying means.

14. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, further including a discharge conveyor for feeding aggregate material to a delivery location.

15. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 1, further including means for selectively lifting said main frame above the ground and lowering said main frame into engagement with the ground.

16. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 15, including means for supporting said main frame when raised for movement along the ground.

17. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 16, wherein said supporting means is a series of skids spaced along said frame.

18. A launch vehicle for a continuous mining system including modular conveyor units that may be connected together to form a conveyor train, comprising:
a main frame movably supporting a rear portion of said conveyor train;
means attached to said main frame for selectively advancing and withdrawing said conveyor train; and receiving means attached to said main frame for continuously receiving aggregate material from said conveyor train as each said modular conveyor unit is added to said conveyor train.

19. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 18, further including means for conveying aggregate material received from said conveyor train mounted to said main frame.

20. A launch vehicle for a continuous mining system including modular conveyor units that may be connected together to form a conveyor train, comprising:
a main frame;
means for adding a modular conveyor unit to said conveyor train;
means for conveying aggregate material from said conveyor train to a delivery location;
means for selectively advancing and withdrawing said conveyor train; and extensible front end means selectively displaceable between a fully retracted position wherein said extensible front end means is fully received within said main frame and a fully extended position wherein said extensible front end means is extended in front of said main frame to support a portion of said conveyor train.

21. A launch vehicle for a continuous mining system including modular conveyor units that may be connected together to form a conveyor train; comprising:
a main frame;
means for conveying aggregate material from said conveyor train to a delivery location mounted on said main frame; and means for adding a modular conveyor unit to said conveyor train during cutting and conveying of aggregate material, said adding means including positioning means selectively displaceable between a first position for holding a modular conveyor unit to be subsequently added to said conveyor train adjacent said conveyor train and a second position for placing said conveyor unit to be added to said conveyor train on said launch vehicle behind said conveyor train;
said positioning means including a power source, a pair of take-up reels driven by said power source and mounted to said launch vehicle frame, one line attached to each take-up reel and means at a distal end of each line for engaging a conveyor unit.

22. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 21, wherein each said means for engaging a conveyor unit includes a support sling and yoke for attachment to said line and a cross bar and a pair of hook members for engaging said conveyor unit.

23. The launch vehicle set forth in claim 22, wherein said means for adding a modular conveyor unit to said conveyor train includes means for pushing said conveyor unit being added to said conveyor train into engagement with said conveyor train.