JPS58501237A - Television remote control of continuous mining machines - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of recovering particulate material from a seam of such material within the earth bounded above and below by different material which comprises the steps of positioning in mining relation to the seam a continuous mining machine (10) having a power driven mechanism (18) thereon for moving the machine through successive seam material cutting cycles which include an advancing movement along a mined entry within the seam in a direction toward the working face of the seam; illuminating (lights 104) portions of the space surrounding the continuous mining machine (10) including portions of the working face disposed forwardly thereof and adjacent portions of the roof, floor and side walls of the mined entry rearwardly of the working face; establishing electromagnetic signals (camera 106) indicative of the appearance of the illuminated portions of the working face of the seam and the adjacent portions of the roof, floor and side walls; transmitting (coaxial cable 110) the established electromagnetic signals to a remote control station; converting at the remote control station the transmitted electromagnetic signals to a continous picture (TV receiver 108) of the appearance of at least a selected portion of the illuminated portions of the working face of the seam and the adjacent portions of the roof, floor and side walls; and controlling from the remote control station (panel 364) the cutting cycle of the continuous mining machine so that the material cut during a cycle is cut from the seam up to the different material defining the roof and down to the different material defining the floor based upon visually distinguishing between the material of the seam and the different material which forms the roof and floor by viewing the continuous picture provided at the remote control station and apparatus for carrying out the method. The apparatus preferably includes a positive displacement air suction extensible and retractible conveying system (14).

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] Television remote control of continuous mining machinery This invention relates to remote controlled mining, particularly for maintaining mining machinery within ore formations and Modification of the ability of remote controlled mining systems to It is about good.

Remotely controlled mining systems, especially for coal seams, have traditionally been recognized as desirable. Numerous attempts have been made to provide systems that are capable of running and commercially operational. It's been coming. However, to date, the proposed systems known in the prior art are None of them were able to achieve success in commercial operation.◇Remote control system Successful commercial operations now depend solely on historical reasons. Not only will the use of existing equipment be affected by recently enacted human safety requirements, This is particularly desirable because of the particularly severe constraints imposed on either the mining surface where the mining work is being carried out, or indeed the ground within the mine itself. Eliminating the need to have personnel close to any of the locations below. Therefore, it disappears. Previously proposed systems have not been commercially successful. Various problems have been recognized as reasons for this. one of them especially heavy A key problem is the inability of remote control operators to keep mining equipment within the coal seam. There is. To maintain a commercially efficient system, mining equipment must be Up to and above the layer of material that should be left behind to define the ceiling, the layer above should be left to define the ceiling. In order to mine all the coal up to the layers of different materials to be mined, It is important to be manipulated. The materials above and below the coal seam are true rocks and rocks. They often cannot be easily distinguished from the material of the layer.

In conventional systems, the different properties of the materials of the ceiling and floor Various means have been proposed for sensing different materials and layers.

One of the early attempts along these lines was U.S. Pat. See also US Pat. No. 2,699,328). This patent has teeth The mechanical vibrations of the cutting teeth correspond to the specific formation of each of the layers cut by the electrical It discloses the sensing of different substances by converting them into signals. Next These signals are then displayed on an oscilloscope and transmitted by the tooth in a remote department. This gives a visual indication of the different layers that are actually being cut. this system was later improved (U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,752,591 and 2,790,96). 8) and was actually operated in the early 1960s, but is no longer in use. Not embodied in the Ninion Carbide Sunshine mining machine It came to be known as the 1 Stratascope. Coop systems are proposed to be subsequently automated (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 2.108,7 (see No. 89) was done. By 1967, the light reflection of the material being cut Completely new system based on continuous measurement of capacity transferred to Union Carbide No. 3,333,893.

Sensing other characteristics and displaying the sensed state on an oscilloscope or using it Various features disclose different systems proposed for providing automatic remote control. Licensed as follows: U.S. Patent No. 2,666,631; No. 3,019,338; No. 3,321,248; No. 3,322.465: No. 3,351,385; No. No. 3.371,964; No. 3,482,103; No. 3.498゜673: No. No. 3.776,592 and No. 3.778.107.

None of the components of these proposed prior art systems are simple. Germany is not to blame for their failure to achieve commercial success. Although perhaps more accurate, the roots of traditional mining systems and remote control systems are The basic difference is that in conventional systems, the machine operator is in the control section of the machine. To visually check the progress of the machine into the mining surface and control the operation of the machine accordingly. On the other hand, remote control systems require different mechanical control methods to be used. It cannot be denied that there are things that should not happen. Therefore, remote controlled mining machines A commercially acceptable method for maintaining efficient operation of the The development of yarn and equipment constitutes the fundamental technology necessary to achieve commercial operation of the entire yarn. There is no harm in saying that you do it.

Mining Conference Magazine entitled “Cable and Wireless Remote Control of Continuous Mining Machinery” In an article in the October 1974 edition of He describes his attempt at remote control as follows in relation to the current trend in short-range remote control. Ruichi: 1 Attempts to promote the use of remote controls for continuous machines are not new. 1 A design was created and tested in the 950s (Figure 2). Long range for continuous machines Remote control was introduced in the early 1960s with the Union Carbide Sunshine mining machine. and the Joy Butshuvaton mining machine. However, for these designs did not develop large-scale commercial acceptance.

Why? There are various reasons. Lack of driver training was one important reason. To the driver Another reason was that it was not possible to design a control system that was easy to remember. . Insufficient credibility was also a factor. Recent designs include these They focused on eliminating the flaws of the past. Excessive control methods are provided. Remote control failures are prevented from disabling the machine. driver is remote Simply use the conventional driver's engine room until the system can be repaired.

The control should be made so that it most closely resembles and is easy to use the control to which the machine is attached. Much more design care has been taken.

Machine operator training is an important prerequisite for short-range remote control systems. short distance The problem of training mining machine operators for remote control is 1. However, many experienced machine operators find that the controls feel different. have difficulty adapting to machine operation. Additionally, many skilled drivers By determining the vibrations of the machine during the mining cycle, the machine can be operated literally by intuition. There will be. These sensations are lost when using remote control. drivers must rely entirely on sight and hearing to operate the machine. especially, If a remote control is supplemented to a conventional machine-mounted control, Drivers must be convinced of the value and benefits of remote driving. Otherwise he would not use a remote system. ” With the above in mind, prior art remote control guidance systems Not only did we remove the feel of a machine, but we also removed the appearance and sound of the machine, creating a sweet This is a completely new system in which the driver performs visual control while looking at an oscilloscope. In addition to having to memorize a standard method, it also completely removes control from the driver. This means that they will rely on complete automation.

One purpose of this invention is to remotely control continuous mining machines to eliminate the problems experienced in the past. The goal is to provide a system that controls Follow the principles of this invention - ho, this purpose is Install a light and a TV camera on the work surface and transmit the TV image to a remote monitor. The operator visually observes the monitor and controls the operation of the continuous mining machine via a suitable remote control method. This makes it possible to control rotation.

The strip of light used focuses the light source and directs it to various parts of the work surface that need to be concentrated and visible. A full spectrum concentrated gas light source with suitable reflectors and lenses to When the light is concentrated, it is preferable. The television camera also has remote zoom and Preferably a broadcast capable color camera with telefocal capability . Preferably, the television receiver is of a high resolution type.

Customary audio systems implemented in television cameras and television receivers Provides the operator with a visual image of the operation of the continuous mining machine at work. It is also within the intention of this invention to provide an audible reproduction of all of them. The story In particular, the system of this invention can provide the driver with images and sounds of actual work. If the system is only for short-range remote control, The same applies to all types of remote control. The invention further provides a modification for coal removed by remote controlled continuous mining machines. A good vacuum transfer configuration is also contemplated. Direct the vacuum source toward the outside of the face. Providing a positive displacement mechanism is important for the practical operation of this system. It is important. System blockages can be effectively excluded by using a positive rock slide air pump. can. The main separation of airborne particles is to remove solid particles from them. This is achieved by a simple detachable separator with a rotary air lock mechanism.

At that time, the air from the separator flows through a hydrocyclone type r-filter, which Is the solids discharge end also equipped with a rotary air lock discharge mechanism? The conveyor system extends and retracts as the continuous mining machine advances and retreats. In order to make this possible, a telescoping transfer mechanism is provided, which allows Additional conduit sections with agile connection and disconnection assemblies at each end allow continuous mining machinery to to the conduit assembly that extends into this continuous mining machine as it advances and retreats. It allows them to be added or removed. Addition of conduit section or Removal is by airflow provided through a filter and a telescoping transport mechanism and mining This is preferably accomplished by bypassing the conduit assembly that extends to the machine. Yes.

It is therefore a further object of this invention to provide an efficient and reliable method of operation. , and provides a remote-controlled face mining system that is economical in manufacturing and maintenance. There is a particular thing.

These and other objects of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description and appended claims. It should become clearer from the surroundings.

The invention is best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings in which illustrative embodiments are shown. It will be easy to understand.

Brief description of the drawing In the drawing: FIG. 1 is a top plan view of the face mining system of the present invention; Figure 2 is a top plan view of the continuous mining machine of this system; Figure 3 shows the continuous mining machine shown in Figure 2 with its parts cut away for a clearer illustration. Figure 4 is a side view of the vacuum transport system supported by the continuous mining machine. FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the slip joint in the component; FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the conduit section showing how the assembly is fixed: Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 5: Figure 7 is in the fully extended position. FIG. 8 is a side view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 1 showing the telescoping conduit transfer mechanism; FIG. Figure 3 shows the above mechanism in the retracted position prepared to receive a new conduit section. Figure 9 is a view similar to Figure 7; Figure 9 is a view similar to Figure 8 showing the new conduit section installed. ; FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial sectional view taken along 1O-101I in FIG. 7; Figure 11 is an enlarged sectional view along 1l-111i in Figure 1: Special edition a58-5 01237(5) FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 in FIG. 11: FIG. 13 is an enlarged partial sectional view taken along 13-131i in FIG. 1; Figure 14 is a view along line 14-14 in Figure 13; Figure 15 is a view along line 15-14 in Figure 1. This is an enlarged elevation view along Line 15; Figure 16 is a somewhat schematic drawing showing the remote control system of a continuous mining machine: and FIG. 17 is a somewhat schematic drawing showing the control panel of the control station.

Referring now to FIG. 1 in more detail, there is shown a cutter embodying the principles of the invention. A feather mining system is shown. This system consists of three basic components: (1) an assembly, generally designated 10, for advancing within the face layer; Continuous mining machine: (2) Continuous mining machine in the layer from a position outside the face (3) a remote control guide thread 12 for controlling the movement; (3) connectable to the continuous mining machine 10; The series is advanced through the bed by a vacuum conveying system 14 that is extendable and retractable. The above method involves transporting the coal removed from the seam by continuous mining machinery to a position outside the face. This is system 14.

Continuous mining machine 10 utilized in accordance with the principles of this invention may be any known commercially available It may be in any available format. In one preferred embodiment, the dresser Manufactured and sold by Jie7 Lee Mining Machine Department of Industries, Inc. It is a format No. 101 helimatic Φ minor. Detailed disclosure eye of this machine Refer to the catalog titled “101MC Helimatic Continuous Mining System for the Target” , the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 16 is a remote reference representing the outline of this catalog modified for the purposes of this invention. The control system is illustrated. The elements of continuous mining machine 10 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,892.44. No. 3, the disclosure of which is also incorporated herein by reference. There is.

For present purposes, the continuous mining machine 10 is shown diagrammatically at 20 and 16 in FIG. Left and right sides driven by separate hydraulic motors, indicated at 22 It will be recognized that the passageway frame 16 having an endless passageway (jyaek) assembly of is sufficient. On the passage frame 16, there is provided a horizontally and longitudinally sliding movement. A sump frame 24 is attached to the sump frame 24 . Diagrammatically shown in Figure 16 with reference numeral 26. A set of sump cylinders is shown for reciprocating the sump frame 24. It is set up for the purpose of The sump frame 24 has an auger centered on the horizontal axis in the transverse direction. The head assembly 28 is oscillated. This auger head assembly 28 is shown in FIG. 3 extending between the sump frame 24 and the auger head assembly 28. The above sump is connected by a set of auger head-cylinders shown diagrammatically at 0. The frame 24 is moved up and down around its own rocking wheel. . Furthermore, two electric motors, indicated diagrammatically by reference numeral 62 in FIG. A drive is also provided for the auger cutting head. Also, the auger head assembly 28 on the sump frame 24 for a rocking movement about a transverse axis parallel to the axis of the rocking movement. Also, a gathering assembly 64 is installed, which is used for auger/cutter and auger. Laterally extending scraped pins for head assembly 28 and central conveyor 68 It includes a backup blade 36. The one indicated diagrammatically at 40 in FIG. A set of gathering cylinders is located between the sump frame 24 and the gathering assembly 34. If provided, the gathering assembly 64 may be moved upwardly and downwardly. This also allows their levitation movement. Furthermore, in FIG. The hydraulic motor shown in is provided to drive the central conveyor 38. . The mining machine 10 as manufactured and sold also includes a sump frame 24. A chain fist conveyor assembly is provided and a gathering assembly 3 is provided. It receives coal from the central conveyor 68 of No. 4 and conveys it to the rear of the passage frame 16. That's it. However, this chain conveyor, as will become more apparent below, It is not used for the implementation of the law.

As mentioned above, Figure 16, which basically shows the catalog remote control method, is particularly important. , a third electric motor 44 is shown, which is connected to a hydraulic pump (not shown). ) to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to various hydraulic motors and cylinders. It is. Hydraulic cylinders 26.50 and 40 and hydraulic motors 22.20 and 42 is diagrammatically shown as 46.48, 50.52.54 and 56, respectively. controlled by pilot-operated main valves, and pilot-operated main valves to these main valves. The pressures are shown diagrammatically at 58, 60° 62, 64, 66 and 68 respectively. controlled by a solenoid operated valve.

The electric motor 44 is provided with a starter 70 connected via a transformer 72. The two auger motors 32 also have a star actuated from a time delay relay 76. 74 is provided. All the electrical components mentioned above are connected to the remote control guide thread 12. It is connected to lines within a substantial length of main cable 78, of which it forms a part.

As best shown in FIG. It includes a control station 80, which preferably embodies a structure similar to that of the control station 80. illustrated As such, this control station controls the face vent adjacent to the area of the face layer where the approach It is located in Chi. In this way, the control department will be able to It can then be moved along benches parallel to the face.

The remote control guide system 12 also has a large diameter power operated cable link as a component thereof. 82, which is also adjacent to and outward from the face of the layer in which the work is to be carried out. It is designed to be installed within the area. The installation method is cable reel 82. in such a manner as to enable the cable reel to be transported one after the other. Preferably, the layer can be moved along the layer as the approach progresses. child A cable reel 82 may be mounted on the trailer body 84 for the purpose of Preferably, the trailer body is a conventional tractor-trailer truck assembly. It is in the form of forming a part. Cable reel 82 carries electrical cables thereon. An electric motor is used to unwind and wind up the roll 78. It is of a type that can be rotated in the direction. handled by cable reel 82 The electrical cable 78 does not bend easily and therefore meets the requirements for large diameter reels. It will be understood that the magnitude of the expression is Continuous mining machine from face The manner in which cable lengths are handled up to the machine 10 is described below in connection with the description of the conveying system. This will be described in more detail below. Cable reel 82 rotates in its rotational motion. Allows for continuous electrical connection within. Therefore, the cable 7 wound there Preferably, the end of 8 is connected from a cable reel 82 to a control station 80. Yes. In this way the control station is connected to the cable carried by the cable reel 82. It also provides direct remote control operation of all functions of the machine 10 via the It is.

As shown in FIG. 16, these functions are performed by each corresponding electric motor 44 and 32, series for controlling the motors 26, 30 and 40 and the hydraulic motors 22, 20 and 24. Eight electric currents designated by the symbols 86.88, 90.92, 94, 96.98 and 100 This is done by a ki switch. A stop switch 102 is also provided in case of an emergency. It is being

The operator located in the control station 80 is responsible for moving the continuous mining machine 1.0 forward in the formation. Provides the ability to remotely control such machine 10 to maintain it on the desired line of retreat. In order to and a front and rear TV/monitor camera 106 and a control section 8. 0 includes a television monitor receiver 108 (see FIG. 17). TV camera For the purpose of energizing light source 104 and television camera 106, suitable triggers may also be used. A powered cable reel 112 mounted on the railer body 84. by A length of coaxial cable 110 is provided to be handled. TV/Camera and the receiver is of the low-light cable type well known in the field of television technology. That will be understood. As mentioned above, the cable reel 112 It maintains a continuous circuit while being unwound or spooled off the reel. It is in the form of As described earlier, the case wound on the reel 112 The end of cable 110 extends to control station 80.

The light source 104 is controlled by the operator at the control station 80 of the television camera 106. When the driver looks at the captured video, he can see that the coal in the seam and the ceiling and floor of the approach section during mining. Normally mined in order to be able to recognize the difference between The mining machine 10 provides a sufficiently brighter level of illumination than the illumination provided by the machine 10. area around the machine, including both the work surface and behind the machine. It will be appreciated that it provides a certain amount of brightness. This invention can be used both backwards and forwards. Although intended for use with a single television camera directed toward the In a preferred configuration, two wide-angle It is necessary to install television cameras. This enters the cutting action of the machine 10. Thus, a mounting method can be provided that dampens vibrational shock.

Similarly, the number of receivers 108 in control station 80 is equal to the number of television cameras 104. Although it is intended that the control station 80 be able to Which of these two TV-cameras 106 is activated by the driver who is driving A suitable switch 114 is provided to allow the user to make the choice of whether to It is to be able to do it. Basically, according to this configuration, TV/camera related to work The laser 106 and light source 104 are used during the forward movement of the mining machine 10 and The television camera and light source associated with the rear of the machine 10 during the backward movement of the machine 10 from the approach It is used for.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, light source 104 is a full spectrum, concentrated gas light source. is preferable. Exemplary embodiments include Thorn Compa. 400 Watt C8I lamp, a metal halide lamp manufactured by NY) P.

The model is black 99-0201. In addition, a 1000 watt C8I Thorn lamp, Model A99-0221 may also be utilized.

Preferably, two such lamps may be utilized as desired. focused light bulb or a lamp with a reflector that collects, concentrates and projects light at the desired location; Preferably used with lenses. The light source is in a fixed position on the continuous mining machine It is preferred that they be fitted, but if desired they can be fitted with conventional panty tails) ( It is supported by a pan and tilt assembly. of reflector An exemplary embodiment includes a 6-inch There is a strand-centimeter reflector for Fresnel. The preferred lens is Strand Sen for 6-inch Fresnel manufactured by Cecy'Uly Lighting Co., Ltd. There is a Chuyuri-6-270602-010 lens.

The television camera 106 must be a color television camera with characteristics for broadcasting. is preferred. In an exemplary embodiment, Commercial Electronics, Inc. - There is a CEI-310 LCD TV stand camera system made by Holated. mosquito For example, Fujinon A12X9 zoom lens and 7 Jinon servo-7 - A zoom lens and autofocus module such as the Cas e module is provided. Preferably.

A color television camera system is used with audio pickup. It is preferable to use a camera-only system without audio pickup. It is within the scope of this invention to utilize a video pickup. Ru.

Television monitor or receiver 108 is a high resolution color television receiver, An example is Ikegami TM-20-8RA monitor S/N 8XB 003. It is preferable that

Mounting the camera 106 in fixed relation on the continuous mining machine in the manner described above may reduce this occurrence. Although it is within the scope of Ming's intention and is permissible due to the nature of continuous mining equipment, , a unit mounted on a continuous mining machine by a conventional pan-tilt mounting assembly. You can use just one camera.

A set of television lights, cameras and monitors allows the operator to keep the machine 10 in the It is possible to visually check whether the movement is progressing within the layer, but if the movement within the layer is desired. Additional tools are provided so that the driver has a basis for determining whether the vehicle is in a straight line or not. Steps must be provided. For this purpose, the remote control guide thread 12 rotates The beam includes an optical laser unit 116. This unit 116 is a well-known The preferred embodiment is micro grade 9. There is a model 900-1 manufactured by Laser Systems, Inc.

As best shown in FIG. 1, the laser unit 116 is located just above the face. located on the outside with its beam perpendicular to the plane of the formation and planned to be mined. It is projected forward parallel to the entrance area. On the passage frame 16 of the mining machine 10 is equipped with two laser beam detectors 118 and 120. Each detector is Any suitable structure may be used, and a preferred embodiment includes three Compatible with laser units 116 having separate sensing zones or separate laser sensing areas There is a model that does this. As best shown in Figures 1 to 4, The two detectors 118 and 120 are arranged in a common vertical direction parallel to the centerline of the continuous mining machine 10. It is confirmed that it is mounted on the passage frame 16 of this machine 10 so as to be aligned in a plane. You will be disappointed. However, these two units 118 and 120 longitudinally and horizontally spaced from each other and vertically displaced with respect to the axis of The frontmost unit may have a straight line to the laser unit 116 It looks like this.

Detectors 118 and 120 are provided with readout and illumination display circuitry (not shown). There is. The lighting display device of each unit mounted on the machine 10 has a rearward facing screen. It is positioned to be picked up by a review camera 106. inspection The display circuitry for detectors 118 and 120 is mounted on a power-driven cable and reel assembly 124. Therefore, it is connected to the control station 80 with a cable of sufficient length to be controlled by . As mentioned above, the cable reel 124 is mounted on the trailer body 84. , the end of cable 122 on reel 124 is continuous during movement of the cable reel. It provides energization and connection to control station 80.

The rotating laser beam emitted from the unit 116 is parallel to the centerline of the mining machine 10. The detectors 118 and 1 are mounted horizontally on the line and on different horizontal planes. That's 20. Each detector 118 is connected to its own control readout unit (not shown). connected and the unit provides power to operate the detector circuit and includes circuitry to receive and translate signals from each of the three detector bands. There is. These units are then fitted with their corresponding three light indicators as well as the case. These signals are transmitted to the lines of the bull 122. Cable 122 connects 6 light sources 1 26, 128, 130, 132, 134 and 136 (see Figure 17). transmits the signals of eight indicators, which are located on the mining machine 10 to the detector 118; and 120 lights in exactly the same order as the lights on the two three-light source displays. .

Thus, light sources 126, 128, and 160 are located to the left, center, and center of detector 118. It represents the right hand laser sensing area and also the light sources 132, 134 and 166. represents the equivalent area of detector 120.

If the machine 10 includes (a) the laser unit 116, (b) the rearmost detector 118, , and (c) along the straight line formed by the three points of the other detector 120. If moved in either direction, the central bands of these two detectors are energized and both The central light source of the three-light-source detector and the central light source 128 in the driver's department 80 and and 164 are illuminated. If displaced, any other light order would be lit. For example, machines 10 begins to turn to the left (as viewed in Figure 1), then detector 1 The right hand detection band of detector 18 and the left hand band of detector 120 are energized so that their corresponding The display light sources 160 and 132 are turned on. At that time, this thing instantly The driver will be notified of the inconsistency and the driver will take immediate corrective action. It is possible to take it.

The above-mentioned laser system, together with the television system, provides information to the operator into the layer of the continuous mining machine 10. The following remote control capabilities for forward movement, i.e. vertically, and the mining Horizontally so that the inner entry section extends inward of the face along a straight line where it follows the layer. This would give the machine the ability to remotely control the forward motion of the machine. The layers are aligned vertically. The laser system enters the formation in a straight line as long as it is straight and does not include vertical undulations. It gives us the ability to maintain.

For the purpose of providing a backup guide system as a check in connection with the laser system, If the layer has undulations and the line of sight of the laser is lost, the sonar - system is also preferred. This sonar system has 4 sonar transducers 138, 140.

142 and 144, which are of any known commercial design. Usually, one piece is installed at each corner of the passage frame 16 of the continuous mining machine 10. It's good that it has been done. These sonar transducers are used to locate adjacent lip or They are oriented to direct their sound waves toward the side walls. These strange The exchanger may be of any conventional construction and operate in a conventional manner to It emits periodic sound pulses in a frequency band that are directed towards it. It hits the opposite rib or side wall and is reflected back to the transducer.

These transducers have pulses of sound waves emitted that leave the transducer and are reflected back home. There is a circuit that can detect the length of time it takes for the . Sound waves are produced in continuous intermittent pulses separated by values or fractions of a second. It is fired. Mined or milled lip is not a smooth surface Therefore, one pulse hits the protrusion of the rib and is reflected more than another pulse that hits the recess. It will take less time to return home. When these measurements were made in this way It is necessary to average the interval continuously. These can be done in any known manner. e.g. each pulse travels from the transducer to the ribs and back. It is arrived at by electronically integrating the root mean square of the measured time required. will be accomplished. In this way, the distance between each transducer and the lip facing each other Noteal that can be determined continuously. And this information is for example the cable 122 to the control station 8o and the converter 138 in the control station 8o , 140, 142 and 144, respectively. 146°148.150 and 152. reading As long as the average readings of the units are the same, the operator can ensure that the continuous mining machine 10 We know that we are moving in a straight line. If a change in readout is observed , the driver may then take appropriate measures to ensure that the path returns to a straight line. It is.

The telescoping vacuum transport system 14 is designated as 154 in FIG. 1 as its essential component. generally includes a positive displacement vacuum pump as shown, which is located outside the face of the trailer body. 84 is preferred. This air pump 154 may be of any conventional type. It may be of volumetric design. The pump unit is connected to system 14 on its suction side. A vacuum source is provided to the continuous mining machine 1o, which is transmitted to the continuous mining machine 1o.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, it will be seen that, as previously stated, such machines are normally equipped with Instead of a chain conveyor, the continuous mining machine 1o is equipped with a vacuum system 14. A pull part is provided. The sump frame 24 of the machine 1o has a box-shaped structure and is In-line conveyor components are normally installed. R+ is clearly shown in Figure 3. As shown, its structure is given by a bottom plate 156, the front end of which extends along the radius. curved upwardly and immediately adjacent the discharge end of the central feeder 68 of the gathering assembly 34. Chain terminating in the rear position and above the top of the conveyor - usually at the top of the conveyor A top plate 158 is also provided for providing row movement. Front edge of top plate 158 is spaced rearwardly from the front upwardly curved edge of the bottom plate 156 and is connected to the central conveyor. An inlet opening 160 is provided through which the coal discharged from 38 enters. There is. Existing commercial continuous mining machines may be modified to accommodate the vacuum transport system of this invention. Further, the rear edge of each plate 156 and 158 seals with the front edge of transition conduit 162. Welded to the connection. This transition conduit 162 is thus fixed to the sump frame and its It extends rearwardly and terminates in a circular annular flange connector 164. For example, collaboration Connect the piping 16 to the annular flange 164 with appropriate bolts. 8 short parts are connected. Tube 168 is slidable as best shown in FIG. The sump frame forms one component of the dynamic coupling and is connected to the passage frame 16 of the mining machine 10. It is designed to allow horizontal reciprocating motion for 24 sumps.

For this purpose, the rear end of tube 168 has a set of axial It has rings 174 spaced apart between which a series of balls 1 72. These balls 172 connect the other basic component of the sliding joint. It is adapted to engage the inner edge of the outer tube 174 being formed. outside of this The tube 174 has a stop ring fixed to its inner edge at its forward inner position. 176. In an outwardly spaced relationship with stop ring 176 A garlock-type annular seal 178 is disposed. On the outside of the seal 178? A pair of adjacent inflatable seals 180 are disposed next to each other. last At the outer end of the inner edge of outer tube 174 is a set of rings similar to rings 170 previously described. Retaining rings 182 are formed which are mounted between them and which are attached to the inner tube. It has a series of balls 184 that engage the outer edges of 168 .

Applying sealed air to the inflatable seal 180 at a predetermined pressure, e.g., 20 psi. is within the scope of the invention, but according to a preferred embodiment, an expandable The friction imparted during the period in which the sliding joint is moved with selectable pressurization of the seal. can be changed to accommodate such movements. For this purpose, the second As can be seen from the figure, a conventional air conditioning unit 1 is installed at the back of the passage frame 16 of the machine 10. It will be appreciated that 86 is provided. The purpose of this unit 186 is An internal cooling system for cooling various parts of the machine instead of the usual cooling system. The purpose of this system is to provide a pressure source for the expandable seal 180. It is preferable to use the seal as shown diagrammatically in Figure 4. 180 has suction ports 188 connected to each other, and the suction ports are electrically actuated. It leads to a three-position valve 190. In one position of valve 190 two inflatable The entry line 188 into the functional seal connects to the cooling unit 18 via a pressure opening 192. 6 to an air compression source (not shown), and this pressure regulator is connected to the 3-position valve 20 psI when the pressure regulator is in communication with the inflatable seal. It is set to provide a working pressure of . In the second position, the three-position valve 1 90 serves to connect inflatable seal 180 to second pressure regulator 194. and the latter is likewise connected to the air compression source of the cooling unit.

Pressure regulator 194 may be configured to control the pressure at a reduced value, such as 10 psi. has been cut. Finally, a three-position valve 190 in a third position It is designed to allow the air to communicate with the atmosphere.

Essentially, the electrical control of the three-position valve is connected to the sump cylinder 26 and its control. The controller 58 may be connected to cooperate with the controller 58 . In this way, the sumping cylinder When the control 58 for the cylinder 26 is actuated to advance each sump cylinder, , the signal for this movement connects the three-position valve 190 to move it to its second position. Subsequently, the pressure in each inflatable seal 188 during the sump operation of the machine is The pressure should be set at 10 psi. The sump cylinder 26 is activated. When moving in the opposite direction, three-position valve 190 is actuated at the same time as three-position valve 1. 90 to its third position, thus keeping the inflatable cylinder in place while the machine is in motion. 188 to the atmosphere. Its configuration is such that the three-position valve 190 is a spring. At all other times it is actuated it holds itself in the first position and hides it. This applies a pressure of 20 psi to each seal 188.

The rear end of the outer tube 174 is connected to the passage frame 16 of the machine 10 by, for example, a yoke structure 196. a female quick release cup attached to the rear end of the It has a pull 198. Rapid dissociative coupling can be of any known type. You may also use The preferred configuration is a registered trademark of Ciba-Geigi manufacturing. Some products are sold under the mark [PRONTO-LOCK HJ].

Female coupling 198 has a series of internal threads 200 on its outer end and an enlarged socket with an inwardly disposed frusto-conical sealing surface 202; Contains. The female coupling 198 is formed at one end of the conduit section 206. a male quick release with a similar female coupling 208 on the opposite end of it. It is adapted to cooperate with the decoupling 204. Figures 4 and 6 show the most As best shown, male coupling 204 has an inner cutout at the end of conduit 206. to cooperate with the conical shaped sealing surface 210 and the aforementioned socket thread 200. The sleeve 212 includes a separate externally threaded sleeve 212.

A vacuum conveyor system 14 provides a conduit line extending from the inner face of the bed to the continuous mining machine 10. a plurality of objects further selectively connected to each other in an end-to-end relationship such that By providing a conduit section 206, it is made expandable and contractible. Each department 206 constructed in the manner described above with male and female quick release couplings at both ends thereof. Contains 204 and 2081. Furthermore, the frictional resistance provided by this conduit line easily moved inward to reduce forces and in response to the forward movement of the continuous mining machine 10. A wheeled carrier, generally indicated at 214, is provided to enable it to be moved. A ridge assembly is provided for each conduit station 206.

The wheeled carriage assembly 214 can have any desired shape (e.g., Although the preferred construction is The components are illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6. Carriage assembly as shown 214 are connected in spaced apart relationship to each other by a set of inverted U-shaped brackets 218. A set of frame plates 216 are included. These brackets are open at the bottom and the top An elongated transverse slot 220 is provided downwardly. these slots Mounted inside 220 is a shaft 222 having wheels 224 at its ends.

A bottom end of a coil spring 228 is seated on the shaft 222 within each bracket 218. A spring seat element 226 is fixedly mounted. The upper end of each coil spring 228 is It is seated on the upper surface of its associated bracket 218. In this way, each frame board 2 16 is elastically suspended on the shaft.

The top surface of each frame plate 216 is adapted to receive the lower edge of the conduit section 206. There are four aligned arcuate saddle-like sections 230. tube carriage assembly 214 and the conduit section 206 to ensure a more positive gripping action. Then, both ends are properly placed in the bins 264 carried by each frame plate 216. A piece 232 is provided. On each upper surface of the frame plate on one side of the main recess 260 It will also be seen that there is a matching recess 266 provided therein. These recesses It extends to the continuous mining machine and is handled by a cable reel 82. The main electrical cable 78 is sized to receive the main electrical cable 78. of the main recess On the opposite side, on the top surface of each frame board is a TV that is handled by a table-reel 112. Laser and sound controlled by coaxial cable 110 and cable reel 124 a set of spaced apart tubes for respectively receiving cables 122 for the wave guiding system; Small-sized recesses 238 and 240 are formed in. Each conduit department 206 is a conduit a wheeled carriage associated with each of their conduit stations 206 when connected to the line; It will be appreciated that assembly 214 is present.

For the purpose of connecting the conduit section 206 to the conduit line and removing the conduit section from the conduit line. A telescoping conduit transfer mechanism, generally designated 242, is provided for removal. It is being As best shown in FIGS. 7-10, mechanism 242 It includes an outer fixed tube section 244 that is longer than the length of tube section 206. Outer tube layer 24 4 is in a fixed position with its axis aligned with the inner direction of the area of the approach to be mined. It is mounted on the face bench outside the face. This fixed outer pipe section Suitable means may be provided for effecting defined positioning. As shown, The tube is fixedly supported at each end on a portable platform 246. conduit transfer Mechanism 242 also includes an inner tube section 248 that similarly connects conduit section 206. It has a length greater than the length. One end of the inner tube section 248 is connected to the outer tube layer 24. 4 is telescopically mounted within the adjacent end of the telescoping device, and between the telescoping ends there is shown in FIG. A sliding joint similar to that described in connection therewith is provided.

Each station is thus provided with a retaining ring 254, a garlock type seal 256, and a pair of A suitable ball bearing 2 provided with an inflatable seal 258 50 and 252 exist.

In this case, the configuration of the air circuit to the inflatable seal 258 is simply It is a turn-off type circuit, and in that circuit, the circuit is attached to the trailer body 84. Air pressure from a suitable compressor 260 is applied via a suitable pressure regulator 262 to 20 psi. is oriented to have an available air source. simple two-way valve 264 in one position communicates a 20 psl regulator with an inflatable seal. In the other position, there is an electrical remote that communicates the inflatable seal with the atmosphere. It is provided so that the distance can be controlled. In this case, the thumping movement valve 264 is not transmitted to the conveying system by operation of the continuous mining machine. position, that is, a position that allows each seal to communicate with the atmosphere only during the running motion of this machine. It is passed on to other people.

At the end of the inner tube section 248 there is a female coupling provided in each conduit section 210. A male quick release coupling 266 is provided which mates with the coupling 208. should be obvious. Accommodates expansion and contraction movement of inner tube section 248 with respect to outer tube layer 244. For ease of use, the inner tube section 248 has a carriage assembly adjacent its outer end. body 214 and a suitable roller assembly adjacent the end of outer tube layer 244. A body is provided at the opposite end of the inner tube section 248 for telescopic movement within the outer tube section. is configured to be rotationally supported by rollers.

The operation mode of the conduit transfer mechanism 242 when adding the conduit section 206 to the conduit line is as follows. This is shown in the drawings of each stage in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9. As shown in Figure 7 When the inner tube section 248 reaches its outer end of run, the male coupling 266 is disconnected from the female coupling 208 of the last conduit section 206 of the conduit line. It is possible. Inner tube section 248 then connects outer tube layer 24 as shown in FIG. 4 until it is almost completely telescopically moved to the left as seen in Figure 7. and away from the female coupling 208 of the last conduit section of the conduit line. The wheeled carriage assembly 214 connects the male coupling 266 with sufficient to move the new conduit station 206, which is centrally supported, between the This leaves some distance. Finally, this new conduit unit has its female cup Connect ring 208 with male-coupling 266 and 210 to the female coupling 208 of the last conduit station 206 of the conduit line. Then, as shown in FIG. 9, it is added to the conduit line.

As best shown in FIG. 1, the opposite end of outer tube section 244 connects thereto. A tube 270 having a central curvature inside so as to extend upwardly and outwardly t, have.

The end of this tubing layer connects to the inlet side of the separator assembly, generally designated 272. ing. As best shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the separator assembly 27 2 includes a sloped artificial wall 274 (e.g. 45°) on the front side, which is open in the The opening has a flanged connection formed at the end of the tubing layer 270. accept the department.

A sloped transition top wall 276 extends upwardly and outwardly from the top edge of the front wall. Ru. This sloped transition top wall 276 has a top housing wall 27 connected to its edge. 8, the top wall of which has a generally rectangular shape. Separation assembly 272 a pair of side housing walls 280 extending downwardly from the side edges of the top wall; A suitable triangular transition side wall is provided between the leading edge of wall 280 and the side edge of front wall 274. 282 are connected ◇Finally, the trailing edges of the top wall 278 and side walls 280 are connected to the rear halves. FjsIII is formed by the Uzing wall 284.

There is a baffle plate 286 extending between each side wall 280 and engaged with the bracket wall 278. . As shown in the figure, the upper edge of this baffle plate 28 is located within the airflow generated from the pipe section 270. isolated inwardly from the leading edge of the top wall 278 in a position such that particles of . The panful plate 286 extends from its upper edge about 6 mm with respect to the top wall 278 in a direction away from the tube. It extends downward at an angle of 8°. The lower edge of the baffle plate is the side wall 28o1 and the rear wall 28 4 and terminating in discrete points on the lower surface of each of the front walls 274. above The housing provided by each type is 1!1 openable and closed in the wall This is achieved by the chainable hatch 288. There is a visibility panel in the rear wall. 290 may also be provided, see FIG.

Four sides that taper inwardly and downwardly from the lower edge of the housing. A hopper section 292 in the form of a prism extends. Part of this hopper The lower edge of station 292 connects to an upper opening formed in cylindrical housing 294. A rotary air lock exhaust valve or filter, indicated generally at 296, form part of the carder unit. Each unit of this format is well known. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the There is a model A 24 x 22SB available.

Unit 296 is shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 11 and 12 and is a cylindrical housing. A pocket mounted within housing 294 and driven by electric motor 600. A rotor 296 is shown including a rotor 296 of the same type. The cylindrical housing 294 is This configuration includes an evacuation opening 602 on one side, and this configuration allows the rotor 298 to be moved by the motor 600. As it is rotated, each pocket is filled from the hopper station 292 and they are emptied. It is configured to be emptied upon passing through the outlet opening 602. ejected particles of the rotary valve discharge opening for the purpose of receiving and handling from that point forward. It will be appreciated that the underside may be provided with any suitable conveyor arrangement. . As best shown in FIG. Exhaust from a rotary valve that extends under the trailer bed and into the trailer bed. The model that accepts items is shown. The conveyor 604 is at the face position. Yet another belt extending along the bench. Discharge material onto conveyor 6o6 It plays the role of

One of each sidewall 280 of the separator housing is shown at 612 from the separator housing. flanged to connect with bone assembly 610 extending to a T-tube connector It has a discharge opening 308. As best shown in Figure 13, this T-shaped Pipe connector 312 has a trunk outlet therein generally designated by the numeral 314. A vacuum release/bypass valve mechanism is provided.

Vacuum release and bypass valve assembly, as best shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. 314 is a cylinder adapted to engage the flange of the trunk connection of the T-shaped member 312 It includes a shaped valve body 616 . As shown, the valve body 616 is connected to the left outlet of the T-shaped member. a plurality of annularly spaced windows for receiving a series of bolts 318 for making the connections; It is formed of. The center portion of this valve body 316 has a circle as shown by the reference numeral 320. A cylindrical recess is provided to define a relatively thin central end wall 622. It is formed. This end wall has a series of annularly spaced openings formed therein. 24, which have a central center in their end walls, as is clear from Figure 14. Hub portion 326 and! 1J number of spokes 628 are given. The internal surface of the end wall is a valve A seat 660 is provided to engage disc valve member 362 . The central portion of the valve member 662 is the valve stem. 334 whose valve stem extends through a central opening in hub portion 626. O is slidably engaged through the valve body 616 and thus extends through the valve body The outer end of the valve stem 634 has a mounting member 336 secured thereto, which This engages one end of a coil spring 368 that is disposed in a relationship surrounding the valve hole 634. work as if The opposite end of the coil spring 668 is connected to the hub portion 32 of the end wall 322. 6 is engaged with a suitable seat formed at 6. An elongated strut 640 extends from the valve body 616. extending and secured thereto by one of the bolts 618. this pillar The opposite end of 340 swings one end of actuation lever 342 as shown at 344. is movably received and the opposite end is provided with a solenoid as shown at 646. The plunger 648 of the id 350 is pivotally connected to the plunger 648 . As shown, Noid 650 is connected to valve body 316 by bolt 318 on the opposite side similar to strut 340. It is carried by the outer end of a post 352 which is secured to.

The central part of the operating lever 342 is attached via a one-way connection bumper 354. Connected to member 636.

In this way, the valve member 332 is able to match the values that can cause conduit collapse. When the vacuum pressure condition within T-shaped member 612 reaches an equivalent predetermined minimum value, the spring 668 is depressed. It is actuated to move inwardly from the closed position as shown against pressure.

This movement occurs without a corresponding movement of the actuating lever 642. Ru. Conversely, by energizing solenoid 650, plunger 648 actuating lever 6 in a direction such that it is moved toward the valve stem 664 and thereby positively engages the valve stem 664. 42 and move it inwardly with the valve member 662 so that the valve member 662 is displaced from the seat 660 and thus remains in the system regardless of the vacuum pressure conditions therein. This means that some of the gas is released into the atmosphere. In this way, energizing the solenoid 35o As mentioned above, the thread is bypassed.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 15, the drum section on the opposite side of the T-shaped member 312 is the tangential direction of the filter assembly, generally indicated at 658, by the bone assembly 656. It will be seen that it communicates with the opposite entrance. What kind of knowledge does this filter group have? It may have the structure of Preferred responses are U, S, filter two-bore (cF) 31 Filter assembly micro crane model 1 related to the work It is 09-10-20. Bottom top of hydrocyclone filter assembly 358 A rotary air valve assembly 360 similar to assembly 296 described above is provided at the outlet of the valve. I'm being kicked.

The upper central air outlet of filter assembly 658 may be It is connected to the suction port of the main positive displacement vacuum pump 154. This rotary air The lock valve assembly 660 is threaded through the floor of the trailer in a manner similar to that previously described with respect to the assembly. It will be appreciated that the embodiment extends through the floor of the trailer. Similarly fill A separate conveyance system (not shown) may be provided to receive waste from the tank assembly. I can do it. This discharge is greater than that of the feed rotary air valve associated with the separator. The emissions are also intended to be fairly small and should be handled separately. It is possible to do so. Furthermore, the size of the particulate coal material discharged from the filter It is also intended that the size be smaller than that in the separator; It is therefore desirable to keep this material separate from the separator effluent. it is conceivable that.

Referring to FIG. 17, there is a diagrammatic representation of the control panel, indicated generally at 664. is shown, allowing the operator in the control department 80 to remotely control the entire system. Contains a variety of instruments to help you Control panel is controlled by continuous mining machine It can be seen that it includes various switches 86 to 102 for operation. Will. In this regard, the normal operating cycle of the continuous mining machine 10 is as follows: It will be seen that Switch 94 turns the gearing head shield on. The cylinder 40 is set in the floating position and the auger head cylinder is turned off by the switch 92. When the cylinder 30 is set to the raised position, the sump cylinder 26 is connected to the switch 90. The auger head assembly 28 and The gathering assembly 64 carried therein penetrates into the coal seam. Ru. During this movement, the expansion of the sliding joint carried by the machine 10, as described above, occurs. The tensionable seal 180 is actuated to maintain a value of 10 pal there. Ru. This thumping movement cannot be performed when the passage frame 16 is in the rest position. It will be understood.

Therefore, during this movement, the driver must move the selection switch for the TV/camera forward. With the camera facing the camera in a visible position, the cutting head cuts the inside of the layer along the top plate. You need to be able to see the layers as you move forward.

This allows the operator to raise and lower the auger head as needed. It becomes possible. Thumping distance is approximately 45.7tN (18 inches) and at the end of this travel the driver now returns the auger head to the floor position. By lowering the coal to the bottom, the TV monitor shows that the coal in the seam does not dig into the bed. Care is taken to ensure that the coal within the seam is removed. Sampi During the cutting movement and lowering of the auger cutter, the electric motors 62 and 64 are It will be understood that all are energized by switches 86 and 88, for example. Dew.

Similarly, hydraulic motor 40 for conveyor 68 is energized by switch 100. It is possible. At the end of the downward movement of the auger head 28 The cut coal is soon removed from the conveyor 30 and passes through the inlet 160. and transferred to a pneumatic conveying system. Now the driver can switch the sump cylinder. Activate switch to reverse it and simultaneously activate switches 96 and 98. This allows the left and right traveling motors 22 and 20 to move forward. This operation has the effect of communicating the inflatable seal 180 to the atmosphere and initiating travel action.

Concurrent with this movement, the operator also vents the inflatable seal 258 of the mechanism 242. Activate the switch. In this regard, switch 66 in FIG. Please refer to 6. Cable reel 82.Mode of each half of 112 and 124 Also note the switches 368, 370 and 372 that control the controllers. If this system is in use, the driver can use the laser light sources 128 and 168 and the sonic readout display. I have to watch vessels 146, 148, 150 and 152 carefully. is during this running motion.

At the end of the cutting cycle of the dowel 13, the machine 10 cuts the length of the conduit section 206 and generally You will have traveled the same distance. At this time, the solenoid 650 controls Activated by switch 674 on the panel. Bypassed by this Valve member 662 of valve assembly 314 is opened thus allowing tube 356, filter 358, tube 662 and the entire system leading from pump 154 to valve 314. A vacuum circuit is established from the atmosphere via a pump 154 that bypasses and interrupts the air flow. It has the effect of Transfer mechanism 242 is now actuated as described above to move the carriage assembly onto the A new conduit station 206 with a volume 214 can be added. child Regarding this point, as can be seen from FIG. Note that it is placed appropriately on a feather bench. Progress where you can move in the same way Also note the installation of protective structures for access openings. Diagram shown in Figure 1 The other block shown in the equation is a portable generator system 380 of conventional design. Ru.

After the new conduit section 206 is secured, the solenoid switch 374 and the expansion The possible seal switch 366 is re-energized to close the inlet opening 1 of the continuous mining machine 10. The vacuum circuit to 60 is set up.

An advance of more than 305 m (1000-yid) was achieved in two stages, and then Now, the machine 10 is retracted from the mining entry and the entire cycle begins at the next entry. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that this is done.

For example, activating a switch 382 on the control panel when reversing the machine 10. Therefore, I choose the rear TV e-camera for viewing on the monitor. That's it. Retraction is accomplished by reversing the steps previously described.

It will be seen that the aspects of this invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. The aforementioned preference The preferred specific embodiments are for the purpose of illustrating the operational and structural principles of the invention. as illustrated and described for the purpose and that changes may be made without departing from such principles. It will be understood that changes may still be made. Therefore, this invention It is intended to include all modifications of the aspects within the spirit and scope of the following claims. .

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A layer of particulate matter in soil bounded above and below by different materials. 1. A method for collecting such substances from Includes forward movement along the mined approach in this formation in the direction towards the working face of said formation. Powered drive for moving the continuous mining machine during successive layer material cutting cycles. positioning said continuous mining machine having means in mining relation to said layer; ceilings, floors and sides of the mined access aft of this working surface and adjacent to these. illuminating a portion of the space surrounding said machine, including a portion of the wall; and: Parts of said work surfaces of said layers and parts of said ceilings, floors and side walls adjacent thereto; The step of transmitting an electromagnetic signal indicating the aspect of the illuminated area for a few minutes: transmitting these imaginal electromagnetic signals to a remote control station; In this remote control department, the above transmission electromagnetic signals are transmitted to the working surface of the above layers and to these At least selected of the illumination points on the adjacent ceiling, floor and side wall parts. The steps of converting the partial aspect into a continuous image: said sequence in which the material to be cut during one cycle is provided in said remote control station; The material of the above layer and the layer forming the ceiling and floor can be determined by visually checking the image. from the layer of material that defines the object downwards to the layer of material that defines the floor. The cutting of the above continuous mining machine from the above remote control department so that the above layer is cut up to a step of controlling the cutting cycle; The above method comprising: 2. said continuous image obtained in said remote control station by conversion of transmitted electromagnetic signals; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the image is a continuous color image. 3. An electromagnetic signal representing the acoustics of the operation of the previous continuous mining machine in the working plane of said layer. the imago stage and transmitting these imago electromagnetic acoustic signals to the remote control station. and the step of In said remote control department, said transmitted electromagnetic acoustic signal is transmitted within said working plane of said layer. converting the sound of said continuous mining machine at work into a continuous audible representation; utilizing the audio display to control the cutting cycle of the continuous mining machine. The method according to claim 1 or 2. 4. A layer of particulate matter in the soil bounded above and below by different materials. A remote controlled mining system for collecting such material from Includes forward movement along the mined approach in this formation in the direction towards the working face of said formation. Powered drive for moving the continuous mining machine during successive layer material cutting cycles said continuous mining machine having means; The part of the working surface located in front of the continuous mining machine and the part adjacent thereto. The above machine, including the ceiling, floor and side wall sections of the mined entry aft of the working surface. lighting means carried by said continuous mining machine for illuminating a portion of the surrounding space; and; The work surface Φ part of the layer and the parts of the ceiling, floor and side walls adjacent thereto. The above-mentioned continuous mining machine for emitting electromagnetic signals indicating the aspect of the illuminated area. television camera means carried on; Transmitting said electromagnetic signals imagulated by said television-camera means to a remote control station. and means for transmitting said signals in this remote control station to the work planes and layers of said layers. and of at least selected portions of said ceiling, floor and side walls adjacent thereto. said remote operatively connected to said transmission means for converting said modality into a continuous image; TV receiver means in the remote control station; the material being cut during one cycle is The objects in the above layer by visually confirming the continuous images given in the remote control department. visual inspection by the driver of the difference in quality and layered materials forming the ceiling and floor; Based on the distinction, upwardly from said layer of material defining said ceiling and downwardly said floor. The above-mentioned remote control is performed so that the above-mentioned layer is cut from the above-mentioned layer down to the material that defines the above-mentioned layer. Enables the operator in your department to control the cutting cycle of the continuous mining machine. and means for The above remote controlled mining system comprising: Parent: the illumination means includes a full spectrum focused gas light source means, which collects and concentrates the light source; reflecting means and lens means for projecting light toward the said location on the work surface; A remote controlled mining system according to claim 4, comprising: 6. The camera means of the television is equipped with a zoom lens and automatic focusing system for broadcasting. Claim 4 or 5, comprising a color television camera with remote controlled mining system. 7. The claimed television receiver means is a high resolution color television monitor. A remote controlled mining system according to scope 6. 8. The color television camera and the color television monitor each have an optical audio pickup means and audio speaker means are provided. , a remote control mining system according to claim 7. 9. To follow the advance and retreat of continuous mining machinery within the coal seam and by this machinery. A telescoping vacuum system is used to transport the cut coal from the formation to a remote location. positive displacement air pump means having a suction side for providing a source of vacuum; A plurality of conduit sections are connected one after the other in a hermetically sealed manner end to end. forming a main conduit line and being connected at one end to the above-mentioned continuous mining machine; Accepts coal particles cut and removed from the above seam by the above continuous mining machine said plurality of conduit sections, each of said conduit sections having means at each end thereof to enable said conduit sections to Several conduit departments and a telescopic conduit assembly connectable to the other end of the conduit line; in series between said telescoping conduit assembly and the vacuum side of said positive displacement pumping means; Coal particle separation means provided, the means separating the separated coal particles into said fractions. The vacuum environment of this separation means is evacuated without significantly affecting the pressure in the separation means. the coal particle separation means having a rotary air lock type discharge means; provided in series between the separation means and the suction side of the positive displacement pump means; The filtered particles can be transferred to this filter without significantly affecting the pressure of the filtering means. A particle filter having a rotary air lock evacuation means for evacuation from the vacuum pressure environment of the filtration means. excessive means, Bypass valve means between said telescoping conduit assembly and said filtration means. the suction side of said positive displacement pump means, normally arranged in a closed position; a vacuum pressure source provided by the conduit line, the telescoping conduit assembly, and the said filtration means to communicate with said mining machine in a series vacuum circuit. through said valve means opened in series with said filtration means and moved to an open position and opened in series with said filter means. providing a separate circuit to bypass the conduit line and the telescoping conduit assembly; a bypass valve means; Said telescoping conduit assembly is connected to said continuous mining machine during its forward motion. The above-mentioned conduit line can be moved by the above-mentioned bypass valve hand on the other hand. The stage being in the closed position allows the vacuum circuit to pass through the conduit line. The telescoping conduit assembly is completed and the bypass valve means is in the open position. bypassing the vacuum circuit from the conduit line and the telescoping conduit assembly at the The above-mentioned telescoping system allows one conduit section to be added to the above-mentioned conduit line when passing. current vacuum system. 10. The separating means has an inlet for the air flow in which the coal particles are contained. a housing in which the incoming air flow and the coal contained therein; reduce the velocity energy of the coal particles and make them suddenly baffle means for moving downward with a drastic change in direction; Coal particles below said baffle means and moving downwardly from said baffle means. hopper means for collecting said baffle means and above said hopper means; and an air outlet means within said housing, said rotary air lock type exhaust. The means includes a power-driven pocketed rotor below said hopper means, as claimed. The system according to item 9. 11. The particle filter means includes a tangential inlet feed pipe and the positive displacement pump means described above. a central air outlet conduit extending upwardly to the suction side of the body; The rotary air-lock evacuation means is powered by a power disposed in the lower top opening of the main body. 10. The system of claim 9 including a driven pocketed rotor. 12. The telescopic conduit assembly has a fixed pipe section and a telescopic pipe section that can be freely extended and contracted to the fixed pipe section. The movable tube section associated with the above and the telescopic tube section associated with the above are sealed. and means including an inflatable seal for Mu. 13. Introducing air under pressure into and exhausting air from the inflatable seal. 10. The system of claim 9, comprising means for. 14. The bypass valve means in the closed position communicates with the system. said closed position by a predetermined spring pressure that can occur when the vacuum inside exceeds a predetermined value i. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the system is placed in a. 15. A wheeled carriage assembly is fixed to the center of each conduit station. The system O described in item 9 of the scope of demand.