WO2014008527A1

WO2014008527A1 - Line support

Info

Publication number: WO2014008527A1
Application number: PCT/AU2012/001592
Authority: WO
Inventors: Grigor TURCAS
Original assignee: G T Mining (Qld) Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2012-07-13
Filing date: 2012-12-21
Publication date: 2014-01-16
Also published as: AU2012205129A1

Abstract

A line support, which may be a line support for supporting an escape line in an underground mining environment comprises: an arm member and a direction indicator. The direction indicator may be adapted to support and retain an escape line. The direction indicator is attachable to the arm member so as to be maintained in position by the arm member. The direction indicator may be a tactile direction indicator, and may be generally conical or frustoconical.

Description

- l -

LINE SUPPORT

Field

The present disclosure relates to a line support, and especially, but not exclusively, to a line support for supporting an escape line used to guide workers out of an underground mining environment.

Background Underground mining environments can be hazardous and it is important to facilitate evacuation in the event of the environment becoming unsafe. To this end, an escape line in the form of a rope or cable has been provided in some underground environments, such as in passages which accommodate conveyors which are used to convey mining product to an above-ground location. Such lines have been supported by generally horizontally extending brackets which are attached at a first end to a structure such as belt conveyor, and which are provided with a support for the escape line at a second end. Such lines are intended to be loosely gripped by an evacuating person, who uses the line as a guide to assist evacuation from the underground

environment. An advantage of such escape lines, compared to some other evacuation guides, is that they do not rely upon electrical power and can be used even in the event of loss of all electrical power to the area being evacuated, and even in complete darkness. Further, in an evacuation situation the area may be filled with smoke which may restrict or prevent visibility, and escape lines can be used even in circumstances with zero visibility.

However, it has been discerned that improvements to such escape lines, and to the supports to such support lines, are possible. Summary

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a line support comprising:

-a support member; and

-a direction indicator;

-wherein the line support is adapted to support and retain a line, and wherein in use the direction indicator is supported by the support member so as to be maintained in position by the support member.

In an embodiment the support member comprises an arm member. In an embodiment the direction indicator is adapted to support and retain said line.

In an embodiment the direction indicator is attachable to the support member.

In an embodiment the line support is adapted to provide a tactile indication of direction. In an embodiment the direction indicator is adapted to provide a tactile indication of direction. In such an embodiment the direction indicator may be referred to as a tactile direction indicator. In such an embodiment the line support is adapted to allow tactile differentiation by a user of two substantially opposite directions of extension of an escape line supported thereby. In an embodiment the direction indicator is adapted to allow tactile differentiation by a user of two substantially opposite directions of extension of an escape line supported thereby.

In an embodiment the line support is an escape line support for supporting an escape line in an underground mining environment.

It will be appreciated that an underground mining environment may become disorientating in an emergency, evacuation scenario, for example as a consequence of being filled with smoke. Thus use of tactile direction indicators can be beneficial in effectively assisting the guiding of persons in the correct evacuation direction along an escape line, even under the circumstances that visibility is reduced.

In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to be coupled, at or adjacent a first end thereof to a structure capable of supporting the line.

In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to be attached, at or adjacent a second end thereof to the direction indicator.

It will be appreciated that in various embodiments, the direction indicator is attached to the arm member, when the line support is in use. However, the line support may be supplied as a number of attachable components from which the line support can be assembled prior to use.

In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to be attached to the direction indicator such that it extends from the direction indicator in direction which is not substantially horizontal. This may be a substantially vertical direction.

In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to be attached to the direction indicator such that it extends from the direction indicator in a generally downwardly extending direction.

In an embodiment the arm member comprises a first part, adapted to extend in a first direction and to be attached to a support structure, and a second part adapted to extend in a second direction and to be attached to the direction indicator.

The first part of the arm member may be elongate. The second part of the arm member may be elongate. In an embodiment the second part of the arm member extends at an angle between 45 and 135 degrees relative to the first part of the arm member. The second part of the arm member may extend at an angle between 70 and 1 10 degrees relative to the first part of the arm member. The second part of the arm member may extend at an angle of approximately ninety degrees relative to the first part of the arm member. This can allow the second part of the arm member to extend substantially vertically downwardly from the direction indicator when the first part extends substantially horizontally from a support structure.

In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator. In an embodiment the first part of the arm member is adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator. In use, this can assist in preventing the hand of a person using the line inadvertently engaging the support structure. The support structure may be a wall or 'rib' of a passage, which may be somewhat irregular and may have potential to cause discomfort or injury if a person inadvertently scrapes or impacts a hand thereon. In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 150 mm and 400 mm. In an embodiment the first part of the arm member is adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 150 mm and 400 mm. Such an embodiment may be suitable for spacing the direction indicator from an irregular passage wall or rib.

In one alternative the support structure may be a supporting structure for a conveyor.

The arm member may be adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 75 mm and 300 mm. The first part of the arm member may be adapted to provide said horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 75 mm and 300 mm. The arm member may be adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 100 mm and 200 mm. The first part of the arm member may be adapted to provide said horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 100 mm and 200 mm.

The arm member may be adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 100 mm and 160 mm. The first part of the arm member may be adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of between 100 mm and 160 mm.

In an embodiment the arm member is adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of approximately 120 mm. In an embodiment the first part of the arm member is adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the direction indicator of approximately 120 mm. Such an embodiment may be suitable for spacing the direction indicator from a supporting structure for a conveyor. In an embodiment at least part of the arm member is provided with a screw thread to facilitate attachment to the support structure. In an

embodiment at least part of the first part of the arm member is provided with an screw thread to facilitate attachment to the support structure. For example, provision of an screw thread can facilitate attachment to the support structure for a conveyor. In use, where the escape line is supported by the support structure for a conveyor, the support line may also be a pull wire used to stop the conveyor in an emergency. In an embodiment an adjustable joint may be provided in the arm member. This can allow the support to be arranged so that the second part of the arm member extends substantially vertically downwardly from the direction indicator when the first part extends in a direction other than substantially horizontally from a support structure. The adjustable joint may be lockable so that second part of the arm member can be maintained in a desired orientation in use. Such an embodiment is of particular use where the support structure is the wall or rib of a passage, since the arm member may, in such an arrangement be connected to (or be part of) and co-axial with a rock bolt used to stabilise the passage wall, and such rock bolts are often not orientated horizontally or predictably. More than one adjustable joint may be provided in the arm member if desired. The adjustable joint, or joints, may be adapted to allow relative pivotal movement of different parts of the arm in at least two planes.

The adjustable joint may comprise a pivoting joint.

The adjustable joint may comprise a ball and socket type joint. This allows additional freedom (compared, for example to a simple hinge joint) to position the direction indicator as desired, irrespective of the orientation of the first part of the arm.

The joint may comprise a position locking mechanism.

The position locking mechanism may comprise a clamping mechanism adapted to prevent relative movement of two or more parts of the joint which are moveable relative to each other when the joint is not in a locked configuration.

The position locking mechanism may comprise a locking member which extends through an aperture in the socket part of the joint, and which can be adjusted to bear against the ball part of the joint to restrict movement of the ball part of the joint relative to the socket part of the joint.

In an embodiment the support member is releasably attachable to the direction indicator.

The support member may be attachable to the direction indicator by one or more fasteners.

The one or more fasteners may be operable to allow release of the support member from the direction indicator.

The one or more fasteners may be threaded fasteners.

In an embodiment the support member is provided with a mounting plate for attachment to the direction indicator. The mounting plate may be attachable to the direction indicator by one or more fasteners. The mounting plate may be attachable to the direction indicator by one or more screws.

In an embodiment the arm member is an elongate metal member. The elongate metal member may be provided with a curve or angle.

In an embodiment at least a portion of the arm member is substantially circular in transverse cross section.

The arm member may have a transverse dimension, or diameter, of between 5mm and 20mm. The arm member may have a transverse diameter of approximately 8mm.

In an embodiment the arm member is provided with a radiussed curve with an angular extent of approximately 90 degrees. In an embodiment the radius of the curve may be between 10 mm and 50mm. In an embodiment the radius of the curve is approximately 25 mm.

In an embodiment the direction indicator is elongate.

In an embodiment the direction indicator is tapered between a first wider end thereof and a second narrower end thereof.

In an embodiment the direction indicator is generally conical or frustoconical in form.

In an embodiment the direction indicator comprises a retaining portion for receiving and retaining a line.

In an embodiment the retaining portion defines a channel adapted to receive and retain a line.

In an embodiment the channel is oriented along a direction of elongation of the direction indicator.

In an embodiment the direction indicator has an axis of elongation, and the channel extends in the direction of the axis of elongation. In an embodiment the channel extends along the axis of elongation.

In an embodiment the direction indicator is provided with a lateral opening which connects the channel with an exterior of the direction indicator, the lateral opening being configured to allow a line to be inserted laterally from the exterior into the channel.

In an embodiment at least part of the lateral opening is narrower than a line to be supported by the line support, and can be widened by application of a force in order to allow lateral movement of the line into the channel. This can assist in preventing inadvertent separation of the line from the line support by providing a part of the opening which is narrower than the line.

In an embodiment the lateral opening has a wider portion at the exterior of the direction indicator, and a narrower portion between the wider portion and the channel. In such an embodiment provision of the wider portion may facilitate initial engagement with the line. Provision of the narrower portion may providing a part of the opening which is narrower than the line to assist in preventing inadvertent separation of the line from the line support. In an embodiment the direction indicator is made at least partly from plastic.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of providing an escape line comprising:

-attaching a plurality of escape line supports to a support structure, wherein each escape line support comprises a direction indicator supported by a support member of the corresponding escape line support, wherein an escape line is connected to, and retained by, each of the line supports. In an embodiment the support member of each escape line support comprises an arm member.

In an embodiment the direction indicator of each escape line support is adapted to support and retain said line.

In an embodiment the direction indicator of each escape line support is attachable to the support member.

In an embodiment each of the escape line supports is in accordance with the first aspect.

In an embodiment the method comprises providing the escape line in an underground mining environment.

In an embodiment the support structure comprises a support for a material conveyor.

In an embodiment the support structure comprises a wall of a passage. In this embodiment the attaching of the escape line supports to the support structure may comprise attaching the escape line supports to rib bolts or rock bolts which extend into the wall of the passage.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an escape line arrangement comprising:

- a plurality of escape line supports, each connected to a support structure, wherein each escape line support comprises a direction indicator supported by a support member of the corresponding escape line support; and

- an escape line connected to, and retained by, each of the line supports.

In an embodiment the escape line arrangement is in an underground mining environment.

In an embodiment the support structure comprises a wall of a passage.

The connection of the escape line supports to the support structure may comprise connection of the escape line supports to rib bolts or rock bolts which extend into the wall of the passage. According to a fourth aspect there is provided a line support for an escape line, adapted to provide a tactile indication of direction to allow tactile differentiation by a user of two substantially opposite directions of extension of an escape line supported thereby.

It will be appreciated that reference above to support structure in the singular does not preclude use of more than one distinct support structure in relation to a single support line.

It will be appreciated that features set out above in relation to the first aspect may be applicable to the second to fourth aspects.

It will be appreciated that unless logic or context dictate otherwise features and characteristics set out above in relation to an 'arm member' (or 'arm members') of a line support may can also apply to support members which are configured such that they are not considered to be 'arm' members.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective view, from rear and one side, of an embodiment of a line support in accordance with the present disclosure;

Fig. 2 is an assembled perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1 ;

Fig.s 3, 4 and 5 are, respectively, top plan, side, and rear views of the embodiment of Fig.s 1 and 2;

Fig. 6 is a perspective view, from rear and one side, of a an arm with attached mounting plate, which forms part of the embodiment of Fig.s 1 to 5; Fig.s 7, 8 and 9 are, respectively, top plan, side, and rear views of the support arm with attached mounting plate of Fig.6;

Fig. 10 is a first side view of a line holder, which forms part of the embodiment of Fig.s 1 to 5;

Fig.s 1 1 , 12, 13, 14 and 15 are, respectively, rear, top plan, second side, bottom, and front views of the line holder of Fig. 10;

Fig. 16 is a schematic illustration of a supported escape line;

Fig. 17 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a line support in accordance with the present disclosure, which includes an adjustable joint in the arm;

Fig.s 18 to 52 illustrate a further alternative embodiment, with an alternative form of adjustable joint, and various other modifications; and

Fig.s 53 to 83 illustrate a variation of the embodiment of Fig.s 18 to 52.

Detailed Description of Embodiments

With reference to Fig.s 1 to 16 an embodiment of a line support apparatus, generally designated 1 comprises a support member which in this embodiment is in the form of a metal arm 10 and a direction indicator which is in the form of a generally frustoconical line holder 30, which in use can support and retain an escape line (not shown in Fig.s 1 to 16). The line holder 30 is attached to the metal arm 10 in use, and the metal arm 10 can be mounted as desired, on any suitable support, and in use supports and maintains the line holder 30 in position so that an escape line can be maintained in a desired position by a large number of line holders spaced along the length of the escape line, for example at a spacing of 3 to 5 metres. The line holder 30, acts as a direction indicator, and in this embodiment provides a tactile indication of whether a user is proceeding in the correct direction along the escape line, by being tapered along its length and providing its wider end towards a desired direction of evacuation and its narrower end away from the desired direction of evacuation.

Thus an evacuating person proceeds along the escape line, loosely holding the escape line so that the holding hand slides along the line. If the person is proceeding in the correct evacuation direction, the hand will ride over the line holders 30 smoothly, since the hand will ride easily from the escape line onto the narrow end of each line holder. If the person is proceeding in the incorrect direction, the hand will encounter resistance, since at any line holder the hand will abut the wider end of the of the line holder 30 and be unable (or at least less likely) to make a smooth transition from the escape line onto the line holder due to the sudden step, or increase in thickness presented by the wider end. The difference between the correct and incorrect directions will therefore be indicated to the evacuating person, irrespective of visibility, and the line holder 30 provides an effective tactile indication of direction.

The line support apparatus is intended for use in underground mining environments, but could have valuable applications in other environments where it is desirable to indicate direction of travel along a line or similar guide, by touch.

The metal arm 10 comprises a first arm part 1 1 and a second arm part 12 connected by a curved arm part 13, so that, in this embodiment, the first and second arm parts are oriented at right angles (although angles are possible). In the illustrated embodiment the curved arm part comprises a radiussed curve with an angular extent of 90 degrees and the radius of the curve is

approximately 25 mm. In use, the first arm part 1 1 is connected to a support structure, for example part of a conveyor apparatus, and the second arm part 12 connected to the line holder 30, in this embodiment by a small mounting plate 14. In this embodiment the small mounting plate 14 attaches to the wider end of the line holder, and is part circular, to facilitate fitting with the circular end of the lone holder 30. However the small mounting plate 14 is configured as a little less than half a circle, and is provided with a cut-out 15 in the region corresponding to the centre of the circle (and the centre of the generally circular wider end of the line holder) so that it does not occlude the central axis of the line holder along which (as will be described below) the escape line is located in use. The small mounting plate 14 is provided with mounting apertures 16, 17 through which, in use, screws 18, 19 extend, to fasten the mounting plate 14 to the line holder 30. In the illustrated embodiment the metal arm is substantially circular in transverse cross section, and the first arm part 1 1 is provided with an external male to facilitate attachment to a support structure. In the illustrated embodiment the metal arm has a transverse cross sectional diameter of approximately 8mm, although of course different shapes or sizes could be used.

As illustrated the line holder 30 is in the form of a plastic, injection moulded, elongate frustoconical body, tapered between a first wider end 31 and a second narrower end 32. The line holder 30 is provided with a line retaining portion in the form of a central axially extending passage 33 for receiving and retaining an escape line. The line holder 30 also provides a lateral opening in the form of a side opening 34 so that the passage 33 is partially open at one side, in order to allow an escape line to be inserted laterally into the passage 33. The passage 33 and the side opening 34 both extend the entire length of the line holder 30. It will be appreciated that sideways insertion of the escape line is generally considerably more convenient than threading an escape line axially through each holder, and facilitates, for example replacement or addition of a line holder 30, by avoiding the need to cut the line, or withdraw and reinsert the line through multiple holders.

As illustrated, the side opening 34 is generally narrower than the passage, and also narrower than the diameter of the escape line to be used and accommodated in the passage, which helps prevent inadvertent egress of the escape line through the side opening in use. However, the holder is constructed with a degree of flexibility, so that application of a suitable force can open the side opening 34 enough for the safety line to be inserted. As illustrated in for example Fig. 5, the side opening has a radially outer wider part 35 and a radially inner narrower part 36. This wider part 35 allows the escape line to be placed against, and protruding laterally slightly into the wider part 35 of the side opening 34, and forcing the escape line laterally, into the side opening 34 and towards the towards the passage 33 provides the force required to temporarily widen the side opening 34, including the narrower part 36, so that the escape line can be forced laterally into the passage. Once the escape line is within the passage 33, the side opening 34 is no longer forced to be widened, so it resiliently resumes its non-forced, narrower configuration, in which it is too narrow for the escape line to inadvertently exit laterally from the passage 33. That is, the configuration of the side opening 34, and in particular, in this embodiment, its continuous taper from the radially outer wider part 35 to the radially inner narrower part 36, allows an escape line to act as a wedge to temporarily widen the side opening and allow lateral insertion of the escape line into the retaining portion, passage 33. This tapered configuration of the side opening also offers considerably more resistance to removal of the escape line than to insertion.

In the illustrated embodiment the passage 33 has a radius of 6 mm, and the opening has a width (when no force is applied) of about 6 mm at its radially outer wider part 35 and of about 3 mm at its radially inner narrower part 36.

The line holder 30 may be made of any suitable material and may be of any suitable structure that allows it to perform as required. However, in the described embodiment, and as best shown in Fig. 1 1 , the line holder 30 is formed of injection moulded plastic and is structured with a generally cylindrical inner wall 37 defining the passage, and a generally frustoconical outer wall 38 forming the outer surface of the line holder 30. First and second generally planar walls 39, 40, extend generally radially, from the inner wall 37 to the outer wall 38, diverging slightly, to define the side opening 34. A number of web portions 41 , 42 extend between the inner wall 37 and the outer wall 38 to provide the desired degree of strength for the line holder 30. Cylindrical sockets 43, 44 are provided for alignment with the mounting apertures 16, 17 of the small mounting plate 14, and for receipt of the screws 18, 19 which pass therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment one of the sockets 43 is formed in a web portion 45 which is supported the first planar wall 39 and the generally frustoconical outer wall 38, and another sockets 44 is formed in a web portion 46 which is supported between a web portion 42 and the generally frustoconical outer wall 38. It will be appreciated that the sockets 43, 44 may configured in alternative ways, and that the sockets 43, 44 are formed so that threads of the screws 18, 19 can tap into interior cylindrical walls of the sockets to provide ample purchase.

The wider end 31 of the line holder provides a lip 47 which is adapted to extend around and accurately locate the small mounting plate 14.

The support apparatus 1 , as illustrated in Fig.s 1 to 15, is designed to be used to support an escape line on a belt conveyor support structure to that the evacuation route is along the belt road. Fig. 16 illustrates schematically use of a number of supports, each corresponding to the support apparatus 1 of Fig.s 1 to 15 and each attached to the support structure 60 of a belt conveyor, to support an escape line 62. The first arm part 1 1 of each metal arm 10 is provided with a male external thread (not shown) which can receive bolts or the like in order to facilitate attachment of the metal arms 10 to the support structure 60 of the conveyor. It will be appreciated that Fig. 16 is schematic only and shows only a small part of the length of the conveyor, which may, in practice be hundreds of metres long. A support apparatus 1 may be provided approximately every three metres (although different spacing is, of course, possible). The escape line 62 may also be used as a pull wire to stop the conveyor, in a manner which will be appreciated by the addressee.

The right angle in the metal arm 10 is provided so that in use the second arm part is oriented generally vertically and extends generally vertically downwardly from the line holder 30, even when the first arm part 1 1 projects horizontally from the support structure (which is the most convenient arrangement). This has been found to allow persons using the escape line to adopt a more comfortable hand position, and more easily avoid catching parts of their hands on the supporting arms than would be the case if the supporting arms were to project horizontally from the line holders. The first arm parts serve to space the line holders horizontally away from the from the support structure 60. In the illustrated embodiment the first arm parts 1 1 are about 120 mm long, which has been found to provide an appropriate spacing between the line holders 30 and the support structure 60.

In an alternative arrangement, it may be desired to that the evacuation route be along a return airway passage, rather than along the belt road. In this case the support structure to which each support apparatus is attached may be a wall or 'rib' of a passage, including rock bolts or rib bolts (henceforth referred to as rib bolts) which extend into the wall. The walls of such passages may be somewhat irregular and have potential to cause discomfort or injury if a person inadvertently scrapes or impacts a hand thereon. It is therefore desirable to space the escape line further from the wall than an escape line would be spaced from a more regular support structure such as a support structure of a belt conveyor. Further, it has been found to be convenient to attach escape line supports to the rib bolts which have a convenient end extending from the wall of the passage, rather than to attempt to secure the support apparatus directly to the wall itself. An embodiment of an escape line support apparatus, generally designated 100, which is suitable for attaching to such rib bolts, is illustrated schematically in Fig. 17. The support apparatus 100 is similar in many respects to the support apparatus 1 , and comprises a line holder 130 which may be identical to the line holder 30 and attached to a second arm part 1 12 in the same way as line holder 30 is attached to second arm part 12. However, it will be appreciated that rib bolts may extend from the passage wall in any of a wide range of orientations, and the support apparatus 100 is therefore provided with a metal arm 1 10 which includes an adjustable joint, so that the second arm part 1 12 and the line holder 130 can be provided at an appropriate position and orientation at least somewhat independent of the orientation of the rib bolt to which the support apparatus 100 is attached.

As illustrated in Fig. 17, the adjustable joint, in this embodiment comprises a ball and socket type joint 150. Although the joint could, if desired, be provided between a first arm part 1 1 1 and the second arm part 1 12, in this embodiment the adjustable joint is provided in what might be regarded as the first arm part 1 1 1 . The ball and socket type joint 150 comprises a ball part 151 attached to a first section 11 1 a of the first arm part 1 1 1 which is closer to the line holder 130. The ball part 151 is located in a socket part 152 which is attached to a second section 1 1 1 b of the first arm part 1 1 1 , which is further from the line holder 130. The second section 1 1 1 b of the first arm part 1 1 1 is adapted to be attached to an end of a rib bolt which extends from the wall of the passage in which the escape line is to be provided, and is provided with a coupling arrangement 163 adapted for this purpose, which may comprise a threaded sleeve. The second section 1 1 1 b of the first arm part 1 1 1 may comprise an external threaded part 164 to assist coupling to the coupling arrangement 163 and to the rib bolt (not shown). The ball part 151 is able to move in the socket part 152 in a manner which will be appreciated by the skilled addressee, so that the first section 1 10a can be oriented to provide the desired position and/or orientation of the second arm part 1 12 and line holder 130. The ball and socket type joint 150 may comprise a position locking mechanism. The position locking mechanism may comprise a locking member 153 which extends through an aperture 154 in the socket part of the joint, and which can be adjusted to bear against the ball part 151 of the joint 150 to restrict movement of the ball part 151 of the joint relative to the socket part 152 of the joint. The locking member 153 may have an external, male screw thread (not shown) and the aperture may have a complimentary internal, female screw thread. The position locking mechanism can thus be operated, by rotating the locking member 153, to lock the second arm part 1 12 and line holder 130 in a desired position.

Use of a ball and socket joint allows additional freedom (compared, for example to a simple hinge joint) to position the second arm part 1 12 and line holder 130 as desired, irrespective of the orientation of the second section 1 1 1 b of the first arm part 1 1 1.

A further difference between the support apparatus 100 and the support apparatus 1 is that, since it is desirable to space the escape line further from the wall than an escape line would be spaced from a more regular support structure such as a support structure of a belt conveyor, the first arm part 1 1 1 (including both the first section 1 1 1 a and the second section 1 1 1 b of the first arm part 1 1 1 ) is considerably longer than the first arm part 1 1 of the support apparatus 1 . This is indicated by the break in the second section 1 10b in Fig. 17. The first arm part may be adapted to provide a horizontal spacing between the support structure and the line holder of between 150 mm and 400 mm, and probably of about 300mm.

It can thus be seen that the support apparatus 100 can allow provision of an escape line in a passage such as a return air way by utilising the wall and rib bolts (which are typically installed at regular intervals to help stabilise the wall) and without requiring additional support structure to be provided or additional drilling into the wall.

A further embodiment of an escape line support apparatus, generally designated 200, is illustrated by Fig.s 18 to 52. Any dimensions in Fig.s 18 to 52 (given in mm) are by way of example and intended to enhance the disclosure of this particular embodiment, but are not intended to be limiting since, of course, dimensions proportions and configuration may be varied as desired in variations or alternative embodiments. The support apparatus 200 is similar in many respects to the support apparatus 1 and the support apparatus 100, so that similarity between corresponding features may be assumed except where dissimilarities are apparent from the drawings or the following description.

Fig. 18 shows an exploded view of the escape line support apparatus 200. Fig.s 19 to 22 show various views of the escape line support apparatus 200 assembled for use.

As illustrated the escape line support apparatus 200 comprises a line holder 230 (illustrated in isolation in Fig.s 23 to 29) which is provided with a closure portion 270 (illustrated in isolation in Fig.s 30 to 36). The escape line support apparatus 200 further comprises support arm 210, which may be regarded as having a first section 21 1 a (illustrated in isolation in Fig.s 44 to 47) and a second section 21 1 b (illustrated in isolation in Fig.s 48 to 52). An adjustable joint is provided between the first section 21 1 a and the second section 21 1 b by means of respective adjustment mounts 251 , 252 (illustrated in isolation in Fig.s 37 to 43) which in use are pivotally coupled.

In this embodiment the line holder 230 in the form of a plastic, injection moulded, elongate, generally frustoconical body, tapered between a first wider end 231 and a second narrower end 232. It will be appreciated that although the line holder 230 is considered to be generally frustoconical, its tapered surface is somewhat convex, which may be considered to provide a more pleasing look and feel than the less contoured shape of the previously described embodiments. The line holder 230 is provide with axially extending grooves 239 at its narrower end to enhance 'feel' by a user. As in the previously described embodiments 1 , 100, the line holder 230 is provided with a line retaining portion in the form of a central axially extending passage 233 for receiving and retaining an escape line, and has a lateral opening in the form of a side opening 234 so that the passage 233 can be partially open at one side, in order to allow an escape line to be inserted laterally into the passage 233. However, the line holder 230 is provided with the aforementioned closure portion 270, which in this embodiment is in the form of segment having size and shape corresponding generally to a size and shape of the side opening 234. Thus the closure portion can be used to fill the side opening 234 in order to close the side opening 234. This may assist in retaining the escape line, even if substantial forces are applied to it by a user (for example inadvertently if a user stumbles), and may provide a more pleasing feel, in use.

The closure portion 270 is illustrated in position, to close the side opening 234, in Fig.s 18 to 22, and is illustrated in isolation in Fig.s 30 to 36. In the illustrated embodiment the closure portion 270 is provided with side projections 271 , 272, which are adapted to be received in recesses 273, 274 in walls of the line holder 230 which define the side opening 234, see Fig. 24. In an embodiment the closure portion 270 can be snap fitted into the side opening 234, but removed when desired upon application of an appropriate force. The closure portion 270 is further provided with a fixing portion, which in this embodiment is in the form of a screw socket 275 for facilitating attachment to a mounting plate 214. The mounting plate 214 corresponds generally to the small mounting plate 14 of escape line support apparatus 1 , but is almost a complete annulus in form, having a central aperture 276, and a lateral opening 277 and thus being adapted to cover most of the wider end 231 of the line holder 230. In use the central aperture 276 is substantially coaxial with the line retaining portion 233 of the line holder 230, and receives the escape line. The lateral opening 277 allows the escape line to be inserted laterally into the central aperture 276. The mounting plate 214 is provided with three mounting apertures 216, 217, 278 for receiving screws 218, 219, 279, to fasten the mounting plate 214 to the line holder 230. In use, first and second of these mounting apertures 216, 217 align with and allow attachment to, sockets 243, 244 on the main part of the line holder 230, and the third mounting aperture 278 aligns with screw socket 275 of the closure portion 270 to allow secure fixing of the closure portion 270 to the rest of the line holder 230.

It will be appreciated that, in this embodiment, in use, the lateral opening 277 of the mounting plate 214 is offset from the side opening 234 of the line holder 230, which prevents removal of the escape line from the escape line support apparatus 200 when the mounting plate 214 is attached to the line holder 230.

The escape line support apparatus 200, like the escape line support apparatus 100, is provided with an arm 210 which includes an adjustable joint 250. However, in this embodiment rather than the ball and socket joint 150 (of escape line support apparatus 100) the joint 250 comprises a pivotal joint, as illustrated in Fig.s 18 to 22.

The adjustable joint 250 is provided in what might be regarded as a first arm part 21 1. The first arm part 21 1 may be regarded as comprising a first section 21 1 a of the first arm part 21 1 , which is closer to the line holder 230, and a second section 21 1 b of the first arm part 21 1 , which is further from the line holder 230. The first and second sections are pivotally connected. The pivotal connection may be of any desired type or structure that permits tightening or locking such that the position of the line holder 230 relative to the second section 21 1 b of the first arm part 21 1 can be adjusted as desired (by adjustment of the joint 250) and then tightened or locked to maintain the desired position.

By way of example, and although other arrangements are possible, in the illustrated embodiment 200 each of the first and second sections 21 1 a, 21 1 b is, in use, connected to a corresponding adjustment mount 251 , 252, and the adjustment mounts 251 , 252 are pivotally connected, to effectively provide a pivotal connection between the first and second sections 21 1 a, 21 1 b. In this embodiment the pivotal connection is provided by a bolt 289 which passes through aligned pivot apertures 290, 291 provided in the respective adjustment mounts 251 , 252. The pivotal connection can be tightened, so as to be effectively locked, by tightening a nut 292 provided on the bolt 289 so as to clamp together the parts of the adjustment mounts 251 , 252 where the aligned apertures are provided. In this embodiment the adjustment mounts 251 , 252 are identical in form, although they serve different, but complementary functions: accordingly, in Fig.s 37 to 43 the adjustment mount illustrated is designated 251 (252), but in relation to these drawings emphasis will be placed on the first adjustment mount 251 , normally without provision of reference numerals for corresponding features of the second adjustment mount 252, and it should be appreciated that corresponding features of the second adjustment mount 252 correspond.

The first adjustment mount 251 provides a sleeve 280 for accepting an end 281 of the first section 21 1 a of the first arm part 21 1 . The end 281 of the first section 21 1 a which is to be received in the sleeve 280 of the first adjustment mount 251 (ie the end which is distal from the line holder 230) has a region with non-circular cross section, adapted to pass through a region of the sleeve 280 which provides a channel 282 (see Fig.s 39 and 42) of

corresponding non-circular cross section. Thus the orientation of the first section 21 1 a relative to the first adjustment mount 251 is predetermined and fixed. The first section 21 1 a is provided with a male screw thread, facilitating use of a nut 283, locatable on the end 281 of the first section which has passed through and projects from the sleeve 280, to secure the first section 21 1 a to the first adjustment mount 251 .

The second adjustment mount 252 provides a sleeve 284 for accepting an end 285 of the second section 21 1 b of the first arm part 21 1 . The end 285 of the second section 21 1 b which is to be received in the sleeve of the second adjustment mount 252 has a male screw threaded region with non-circular cross section, adapted to pass through a region of the sleeve which provides a channel of corresponding non-circular cross section. Thus the orientation of the second adjustment mount relative to second section 21 1 b is predetermined and fixed. The male screw thread on the second section 21 1 b facilitates use of a nut 286, locatable on the end 285 of the second section 21 1 b which has passed through and projects from the sleeve 284, to secure the second section 21 1 b to the second adjustment mount 251.

In each adjustment mount 251 , 252 the sleeve 280, 284 has an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the pivot aperture 290, 291 . Thus the axis of the pivotal connection 250 is perpendicular to a direction of elongation of each of the first and second sections.

Thus an effective, lockable, pivotal connection between the first and second sections 21 1 a, 21 1 b of the first arm part 21 1 is provided.

The second section 21 1 b of the first arm part 21 1 comprises a coupling arrangement 263 (corresponding generally to coupling arrangement 163) which provides a female threaded portion to facilitate attachment to a support structure or a rib bolt. Of course, as an alternative, the coupling arrangement could provide a male threaded portion if desired. A further embodiment of an escape line support apparatus, generally designated 300, is illustrated by Fig.s 53 to 83. The escape line support apparatus 300 is similar in many respects to the escape line support apparatus 200, so that similarity between corresponding features may be assumed except where dissimilarities are apparent from the drawings or the following

description. Any dimensions in Fig.s 53 to 83 (given in mm) are by way of example and intended to enhance the disclosure of this particular embodiment, but are not intended to be limiting since, of course, dimensions, proportions and configuration may be varied as desired in variations or alternative

embodiments. However, inclusion of dimensions is considered instructive since the support apparatus 300 is different to the support apparatus 200 mainly in the dimensions of various parts and components.

It should be noted that, in contrast to the mounting plate 214 of escape line support apparatus 200, mounting plate 314 of escape line support apparatus 300 provides a lateral opening which is aligned with the side opening of the line holder 230, and does not facilitate fixing of closure 370 to the mounting plate 314.

It will be understood to persons skilled in the art of the invention that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Claims

1 . A line support comprising:

-a support member; and

-a direction indicator;

2. A line support according to claim 1 wherein the direction indicator is adapted to support and retain said line.

3. A line support according to either preceding claim wherein the direction indicator is attachable to the support member.

4. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the support member comprises an arm member.

5. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the line support is an escape line support for supporting an escape line in an underground mining environment.

6. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the direction indicator is adapted to provide a tactile indication of direction.

7. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the line support is adapted to allow tactile differentiation by a user of two substantially opposite directions of extension of the escape line supported thereby.

8. A line support according to claim 3, or any of claims 4 to 7 when dependent upon claim 3, wherein the arm member is adapted to be coupled, at or adjacent a first end thereof to a structure capable of supporting the line and at or adjacent a second end thereof to the direction indicator.

9. A line support according to claim 3, or any of claims 4 to 8 when dependent upon claim 3, wherein the arm member is adapted to be attached to the direction indicator such that it extends from the direction indicator in a generally downwardly extending direction.

10. A line support according to claim 3, or any of claims 4 to 9 when dependent upon claim 3, wherein the arm member comprises a first part, adapted to extend in a first direction and to be attached to a support structure, and a second part adapted to extend in a second direction and to be attached to the direction indicator.

1 1. A line support according to claim 3, or any of claims 4 to 10 when dependent upon claim 3, wherein at least part of the arm member is provided with a screw thread to facilitate attachment to a support structure.

12. A line support according to claim 3, or any of claims 4 to 1 1 when dependent upon claim 3, wherein an adjustable joint is be provided in the arm member.

13. A line support according to claim 12 wherein the adjustable joint may is lockable so that the second part of the arm member can be maintained in a desired orientation in use.

14. A line support according to either of claims 12 or 13 wherein adjustable joint comprises a pivoting joint.

15. A line support according to either of claims 12 or 13 wherein the adjustable joint comprises a ball and socket type joint.

16. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the support member is releasably attachable to the direction indicator.

17. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the support member is attachable to the direction indicator by one or more fasteners.

18. A line support according to claim any of preceding claims wherein the support member is provided with a mounting plate for attachment to the direction indicator.

19. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the direction indicator is elongate.

20. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the direction indicator is tapered between a first wider end thereof and a second narrower end thereof.

21. A line support according to claim 20 wherein the direction indicator is generally conical or frustoconical in form.

22. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the direction indicator comprises a retaining portion for receiving and retaining a line.

23. A line support according to claim 22 wherein the retaining portion comprises a channel adapted to receive and retain a line to be supported by the line support.

24. A line support according to claim 23 wherein the channel is oriented along a direction of elongation of the direction indicator.

25. A line support according to either of claims 23 or 24, wherein the direction indicator is provided with a lateral opening which connects the channel with an exterior of the direction indicator, the lateral opening being configured to allow a line to be inserted laterally from the exterior into the channel.

26. A line support according to any of claims 23 to 25 comprising is configured to retain the line in the channel.

27. A line support according to either of claims 25 or 26 wherein at least part of the lateral opening is narrower than a line to be supported by the line support, and can be widened by application of a force in order to allow lateral movement of the line into the channel.

28. A line support according to claim 27 wherein the lateral opening has a wider portion at the exterior of the direction indicator, and a narrower portion between the wider portion and the channel.

29. A line support according to any preceding claim wherein the direction indicator is made at least partly from plastic.

30. A method of providing an escape line comprising:

-attaching a plurality of escape line supports to a support structure, wherein each escape line support comprises a direction indicator supported by a support member of the corresponding escape line support, wherein an escape line is connected to, and retained by, each of the line supports.

31. A method of providing an escape line according to claim 30 wherein the direction indicator of each escape line support is adapted to support and retain said line.

32. A method of providing an escape line according to claim 30, comprising use of escape line supports in accordance with one or more of claims 1 to 29.

33. A method of providing an escape line according to any of claims 30 to 32, wherein the method comprises providing the escape line in an underground mining environment.

34. A method of providing an escape line according to any of claims 30 to

33, wherein the support structure comprises a support for a material conveyor.

35. A method of providing an escape line according to any of claims 30 to

34, wherein the support structure comprises a wall of a passage.

36. An escape line arrangement comprising:

- an escape line connected to, and retained by, each of the line supports.

37. An escape line arrangement according to claim 36 comprising escape line supports in accordance with one or more of claims 1 to 29.

38. An escape line arrangement according to claim 36, when used in a method in accordance with any of claims 30 to 35.

39. A line support for an escape line, adapted to provide a tactile indication of direction to allow tactile differentiation by a user of two substantially opposite directions of extension of an escape line supported thereby.

40. A line support substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

41. A method of providing an escape line substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.