TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to mobile raise-boring systems and mobile support systems for raise-boring rigs, and relates particularly to mobile transportation systems for locating and operating raise-boring rigs.

BACKGROUND

Underground mining has been conducted for many years and involves the creation of narrow, constricted tunnels deep within the ground. As many mines operate on a number of different levels, it is often necessary to excavate holes or passageways between different levels of a mine. In some circumstances, excavation may be conducted through conventional drilling equipment or even through the use of explosives, depending on the material being mined and the stability of the surrounding structure.

Raise-boring is generally conducted where two levels need to be connected. The raise-boring rig allows a hole to be drilled from the lower level upwards, whilst the rig is positioned in the upper tunnel. This is done by setting up a raise-boring rig on the upper tunnel of the two to be connected. A small pilot hole is drilled down to the lower level using a small drilling head. Once the drill has broken through the substrate to the lower tunnel, the smaller drilling head is removed and a larger conventional reaming head is attached. This reaming head will cut the substrate above it, as the drill string is pulled back upwards to the raise-boring rig on the upper level.

In some situations, the raise boring rig can be used to drill a hole upwardly from a lower level to the one above. This upward raise-boring is also known as box hole boring. Generally, the same raise-boring equipment can be used for both upward and downward boring. Alternatively, purpose-built equipment for box hole boring can be used. Box hole boring is also sometimes called blind hole boring.

It is generally accepted that both upward and downward boring methods are classified as raise-boring when used with the same or similar equipment.

The equipment required for raise-boring is bulky and heavy but also technically sophisticated and capable of precision functioning. The raise-boring rig must be transported into remote mine locations using a non-specialised transport vehicle and precisely manoeuvred and set up in order to bore accurate holes that do not damage or adversely affect the structure of the mine tunnels themselves. The current solutions in. the market place require the raise-boring rig, the control panel and a hydraulic drive unit to be taken into position in the mine, individually and then precisely set-up in whatever inhospitable conditions are available. This can commonly involve long set-up times, for example in the order of 12 hours or more for each bore, and can involve occupational health and safety concerns for those spending long periods setting up and operating the raise-boring rig.

It would be desirable to address or ameliorate one or more shortcomings or disadvantages associated with prior raise-boring techniques or equipment or to at least provide a useful alternative.

Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as

"comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

SUMMARY

Described embodiments relate generally to mobile boring apparatus comprising a transporter configured to carry, position and control operation of a boring rig.

Some embodiments relate to a mobile support system for a raise-boring rig, the system comprising: a chassis having ground-engaging movement elements enabling movement of the system; a lift mechanism mounted on the chassis to elevate the raise- boring rig, when engaged therewith, above ground level for transport and to lower the raise-boring rig to ground level for raise-boring operations, wherein the lift mechanism is disengageable from the raise-boring rig when the lift mechanism is in a lowered position such that the raising boring rig can be supported by the ground; and control components mounted on the chassis and coupleable to the raise-boring rig to enable control of the raise-boring rig independently of whether the lift mechanism is engaged or disengaged with the raise-boring rig.

The lift mechanism may comprise at least one support arm to support the raise- boring rig. This system may further comprise a retention element to releasably retain the raise-boring rig on the lift mechanism when the raise-boring rig is supported by the lift mechanism. The lift mechanism may be tiltable, to angle the raise-boring rig acutely relative to the ground.

The mobile support system may also comprise an operator compartment, which may be mounted on the chassis. The compartment may house an operator control interface that enables an operator control of the control components to operate the raise-boring rig when the control components are coupled to the raise-boring rig. The operator compartment may comprise an enclosed climate-controlled cabin.

The control components may comprise hydraulic control components. The system may further comprise at least two dedicated motors supported by the chassis to drive the hydraulic control components. The system may further comprise a hydraulic pump operably associated with each of the at least two motors.

The system may drive the hydraulic control components associated with providing the operating torque for the raise-boring rig from one hydraulic pump, and may use a second hydraulic pump to drive and operate a drill rod handling mechanism.

To provide the capacity for movement of the system, some embodiments of the system may comprise an engine supported on the chassis. A second hydraulic control component may be included to control the lift mechanism, whereby the second hydraulic control components rely on the engine for their power. The second hydraulic control components may comprise a least one of an elevation mechanism and a tilt mechanism. The tilt mechanism may tilt between about 0° and about 20°, relative to the vertical axis of the system, for example.

The mobile support system may further comprise a power supply conduit to receive power from a power source external to the system. The system may further comprise a cable reel to support at least part of the power supply conduit. Power from the power supply conduit may be used to power operation of the raise-boring rig.

Some embodiments relate to a mobile raise-boring system comprising the mobile support system and the raise-boring rig. Such embodiments may also be combined with features described above or in the detailed description.

Some embodiments relate to a transporter for a raise-boring rig, the transporter comprising control means to control operation of the raise-boring rig. Such embodiments may also be combined with features described above or in the detailed description. Advantageously, the system may be relatively compact and streamlined to allow it to be relatively manoeuvrable in the confined spaces of a mine and tunnel systems. Further, the operator compartment may be insulated from noise and capable of limiting the internal cabin noise to less than about 80dBa. The operator compartment may also be positively pressurised relative to the exterior of the compartment and may further be temperature controlled.

Some embodiments relate to mobile raise-boring apparatus, comprising: a chassis having ground-engaging movement elements enabling movement of the system; a raise-boring rig movable with the chassis; control components supported by the chassis and coupled to the raise-boring rig to enable control of the raise-boring rig. Such embodiments may also be combined with features described above or in the detailed description.

Some embodiments relate to a method of raise-boring, comprising: transporting a raise-boring rig on a transporter to a boring site, the raise-boring rig being controllable by user-operable controls on the transporter; and boring at the boring site using the raise-boring rig, wherein the boring is controlled by the user-operable controls. Such embodiments may also be combined with features described above or in the detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are described in further details below, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 A is a plan view of a mobile raise-boring system;

Fig. IB is a side elevation of the mobile raise-boring system;

Fig. 2A is a detailed side elevation of a chassis of a mobile support system for a raise-boring rig;

Fig. 2B is a detailed top view of the chassis of the mobile support system, detailing the cabin location and power train layout;

Fig. 3 A is a perspective view of a raise-borer carrier assembly and operator cabin;

Fig. 3B is a side elevation of the raise-borer carrier assembly and operator cabin;

Fig. 3C is a plan view of the raise-borer carrier assembly and operator cabin; Fig. 4 is a schematic side elevation of the mobile support system, showing hydraulic connections between the mobile support system and the raise-boring rig;

Fig. 5 A is a detailed hydraulic schematic layout, for the mobile support system and raise-boring rig;

Fig. 5B is a detailed hydraulic layout for the raise-boring rig;

Fig. 5C is a detailed hydraulic layout for an operator console;

Fig. 5D is a detailed hydraulic layout for the pendant control;

Fig. 6 is the perspective view of an example operator panel located within the cabin, for controlling the mobile support system;

Fig. 7 is a detailed view of example control gauges and switches for the operators control panel for controlling the mobile support system;

Fig. 8A illustrates a control panel of a jack assembly of the raise-borer carrier;

Fig. 8B illustrates a control panel for the control of the tilt cylinder assembly of the raise-borer carrier;

Fig. 8C illustrates a hydraulic indicator panel for the mobile support system; and

Fig. 9 illustrates a pendant control for the operation of a raise-boring rig and a raise-boring rig arm assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described embodiments relate generally to mobile boring apparatus comprising a transporter configured to carry, position and control operation of a boring rig. Some embodiments relate to mobile support systems for raise-boring rigs, and more particularly to a mobile transportation system for locating and operating raise-boring rigs. The raise-boring rigs contemplated for this application are for raise hole diameters between about 0.5m and about 2.0m.

Figs. 1A and IB illustrate a mobile raise-boring system 100 comprising a front end 110 and a rear end 120. The mobile raise-boring system 100 comprises a mobile support system ("transporter") 105 and a raise-boring rig 180. The transporter 105 comprises a chassis 140; a raise-borer carrier assembly ("carrier") 150; a power train assembly 160; a power conduit assembly 170; and an environmentally controlled operator cabin 130. The transporter 105 is configured to transport and control the raise- boring rig 180 and is hydraulically coupled or coupleable thereto. The raise-boring rig includes a rig arm assembly 190. Some embodiments relate to the transporter 105, independently of the raise- boring rig 180, while other embodiments are directed to the transporter 105 and the raise-boring rig 180, in combination, coupled together hydraulically as the mobile raise-boring system 100. In some embodiments, the boring rig may be usable for boring procedures other than raise-boring. For example, the boring rig may be configured for box hole or blind hole boring. However, for ease of illustration, but without limitation, the present description will focus on raise-boring applications. Further, the transporter 105 will generally be described as a separate (but hydraulically coupled) component from the raise-boring rig 180, although in some embodiments the raise-boring rig may be integrated with the transporter 105.

The transporter 105 has a heavy duty chassis 140 designed for underground mining and tunnelling operations. The transporter 105 has a small turning radius, thereby giving it high manoeuvrability, especially in narrow drifts. The transporter 105 is also fitted with diesel-hydraulic traction, a four wheel drive system and automatic differential locks on both axles.

The transporter 105 is powered by a 112 kW diesel engine 161, that drives a Clark T24000 series long drop transmission 162, that drives two drive lines to two Hurth axles that independently drive a set of front wheels 146 and a set of rear wheels 147. Front and rear wheels 146, 147 are one example of ground engaging movement elements. However, other such elements may be employed, if desired, such as endless tracks.

The transporter 105 is fitted with four lifting jacks that are located at each corner of the transporter 105. These are used to raise and lower the transporter 105 for changing front wheels 146 and rear wheels 147.

The transporter 105 has a chassis assembly 140 that is divided into a front chassis 141 and a rear chassis 142. The front chassis 141 and the rear chassis 142 are joined by a centralised lubricated joint 143 that provides for articulation, steering cylinder bearings and rear axle oscillation bushings.

The central lubricated chassis joint 143 allows the front and rear chassis 141, 142 to pivot relative to each other, providing the necessary flexibility and articulation for the mobile raise-boring system 100 to be driven and steered in and around mining tunnels and shafts and other confined spaces.

The power train unit 160 for the transporter 105 uses a pendulum-type engine end axle. When coupled with the central lubricated chassis system 140, this provides for excellent traction and speed performance. The transporter 105 also provides for operator safety, employing articulated power steering, fail-safe parking brakes and a dual circuit braking system.

In one example, the transporter 105 will have a maximum width of around 2260mm; an outer turning radius of around 5600mm; an inner turning radius of around 3450mm; and a weight of around 7000kg.

The cabin 130 is supported by the mobile support system chassis 140. Fig 2 A and 2B show the front chassis 141 and the rear chassis 142. The front chassis 141 supports the carrier 150. The rear chassis 142 provides the main structural support framework for the power train assembly 160 and power conduit assembly 170.

The front chassis 1 1 has a front mounting face 144 for mounting the raise- boring carrier assembly 150. The mounting face 144 also provides the chassis with a front bumper and energy absorbing member when the raise-boring carrier assembly is not fitted. The rear chassis 142 has a rear mounting face 145 that may be used as a rear bumper, but is primarily used as the mounting face for the power conduit assembly 170.

The chassis assembly 140 is supported and transported on front wheels 146 and rear wheels 147, which allow the mobile raise-boring system 100 to be fully mobile. In some embodiments, these wheels may be all driven allowing the mobile support system to handle rugged terrain. The all wheel drive system also allows the transporter to provide excellent traction both inside and outside of a mine, and further enhance the performance of the mobile raise-boring system 100, as a whole. However, all wheel drive is not an essential feature and embodiments without all wheel drive would still be capable of delivering the benefits of the mobile raise-boring system 100.

Centrally supported on chassis 140 is the operator mounting frame 148, which facilitates the ingress and egress of the operator from the cabin 130 mounted thereon.

A cross-member 149 lies horizontally on the front chassis 141 between the two front wheels 146. This cross-member 149 is rigidly attached to the front chassis 141 and provides lateral stability for the front chassis 141 and a mounting platform for a hydraulic tilt cylinder 155 that forms part of the carrier 150.

The raise-borer carrier assembly 150 is shown in detail in Fig 3 A, which depicts the carrier assembly 150 in an isometric view. This is supplemented by Fig 3B, which shows a third angle projection, side elevation of the raise-borer carrier assembly 150, and Fig 3C, which shows a plan view of the same. The embodiments shown in Fig 3 A show a carrier 150 comprising two tines 151 that project into a pair of rigid I-beam joists 152 to which the raise-boring rig 180 is attached. The joists 152 have rectangular cut-out holes within the centre flange of each member. The cut-outs provide locating holes for the tines 151 to be received.

The I-beam joists 152 are rigid members with flat top and bottom surfaces, and at one end have a widened top surface that acts as a mounting platform 153. The raise- boring rig assembly 180 can be securely mounted and fastened to the mounting platform 153 to secure it for transport, while allowing it to be easily disengaged from the transporter 105 by removal of the tines 151 from the joists 152. The mounting platform 153 is pre-drilled with the necessary holes 158 and slots to allow the base 181 of the raise-boring rig assembly 180 to be rigidly mounted using a series of removable nuts and bolts.

When the raise-boring rig 180 is being moved on the transporter 105, a manually removable retention element 182 is employed to ensure that the raise-boring rig is stably mounted to and retained on the raise-boring rig carrier 150. The retention element 182 is attached at one end to the mast 154 or carriage 157 and at the opposing end to the raise-boring rig 180.

The tines 151 are coupled to, and hang from the carriage 157. The tines 151 may be optionally adjusted in a lateral direction along the carriage 157 when they are bearing no load.

The carriage 157 is attached to a mast 154 that is secured to the front chassis 141 at a mast pivot point 156. The mast 154 is a vertical assembly that does the work of lifting and lowering the carriage, thus facilitating the entire carrier and also the raise- boring rig (when supported by the tines 151) to be raised and lowered as necessary. The mast 154 is raised and lowered by a mast hydraulic cylinder 159, which is coupled to the mast 154 at one end and the carriage 157 at the other end.

The hydraulic tilt cylinder 155 and mast pivot point 156 allow the raise-boring rig 180 to be angularly adjusted and positioned at an acutely inclined angle relative to the ground. The hydraulic tilt cylinder 155 is connected to the mast 154 at one end and to the front chassis cross-member 149 at its opposite end, although in other embodiments the tilt cylinder could be secured to a front axle or other structural component of the front chassis 141. The tilt cylinder 155 maintains the tension between the front chassis 141 and the mast 154 and can also be lengthened or shortened to control the angle of inclination of the raise-borer carrier assembly 150. The environmentally controlled operator cabin 130 is situated in a command position on the mobile support system chassis 140. From the cabin 130, the operator can position the system 100 as a whole, and also position the raise-boring rig 180, using the raise-borer carrier assembly 150. The cabin 130 may be certified to ROPS (Roll Over Protection System) level and provides limited FOPS (Falling Object Protection System) protection. The interior of cabin 130 is preferably sound proofed to about 80dBa and can also be air-conditioned. The air conditioning system of cabin 130 can be run from either the diesel engine 161 on the transporter 105 or from the mine lOOOv power supply via a power conduit 171, as illustrated in Fig.4. The power supply is also used to power a fan providing filtered air to cabin 130 to positively pressurise the cabin 130 relative to the exterior environment to reduce dust intrusion.

All functions within the cabin 130 are limited to 24v DC where the operator may control the transporter 105, the raise-boring rig 180, and the carrier assembly 150 that allows the positioning and adjustment of the raise-boring rig 180.

The cabin 130 is also the platform for the tramming and work lights, and provides an external power supply outlet to lights stands and equipment that is often set-up around the raise-boring rig to improve operator visibility.

The cabin 130 incorporates safety glass to provide impact safety, and a series of wipers and window washers to maintain visibility. The windscreen glazing is a thickness of about 8 mm.

The cabin 130 has a pendant control 910 which is described further below, with reference to Fig. 9. The pendant control may be used to operate the raise-boring rig 180, from outside of the cabin 130.

The cabin 130 provides adjustable seating that allows the operator to reposition the seat, depending on whether the transporter 105 is being operated or the raise-boring rig 180.

The cabin 130 houses the user-operable control and steering for the transporter 105 as a whole, and also includes operating controls 131 for the raise-boring rig assembly 180. The raise-boring rig operating controls 131 comprise the hydraulic controls components required to operate the raise-boring rig completely from inside the cabin 130.

Integrating all essential controls into the cabin 130 allows a human operator to control all functions of the system 100, including the raise-boring rig 180, from within the cabin 130, where various environmental controls can be exercised over the operator working space with respect to temperature, air quality and noise.

The cabin 130 may also have at least one, and preferably two video display units installed. The video display units will relay images back to the cabin 130 from light stands, comprising spotlights and camera equipment that may be positioned close to the raise-boring rig 180. The images can be used by the operator to confirm that drill rods are correctly joined together by the raise-boring rig arm 190 and other visual checks.

The environmentally controlled cabin 130, offers advantages in operator comfort and safety. The mobile raise-boring system 100 offers a new level of versatility, efficiency, manoeuvrability and occupational health and safety benefits to the potentially inhospitable working conditions of a mine.

The power train assembly 160 comprises an engine 161, a transmission 162, at least two electric drive motors 163, at least two hydraulic pumps 164 and a hydraulic control panel 165. The power train assembly 160 supplies all the necessary power to drive the mobile raise-boring system 100. The engine 161, through the transmission 162, provides the power to move and manoeuvre the transporter 105. The engine 161 also supplies the necessary power to the hydraulic control components of the carrier 150. Alternatively these components may be powered from the power conduit 171, supplying the mine mains power directly to the transporter 105.

The engine 161 is fitted with a catalytic converter on the exhaust to comply with

CO (Carbon Monoxide) and NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) emissions levels on mining sites. The exhaust system is further ceramic coated to minimise heat radiation and reduce the chances of initiating or sustaining combustion.

As a further safety feature, the engine compartment may be fitted with a fire suppression system (foam type), that may be manually activated or activated via a piro tube. Upon activation of the fire suppression system, the transporter 105 will automatically disconnect any mains electrical power via a pilot line sensor. Hydraulic hoses are also shielded and wire braid fuel line is employed to further reduce the ability of the transporter 105 to propagate a thermal incident.

In a non-limiting example provided for illustration purposes only, the specifications for engine 161 may be as follows in Table 1. Deutz, 4-cylirKr, 4-stroke pre-chamber diesel, type BF4M 1013C

Max. rating at 230 rpm 112 kW (150 hp)

Max. torque at 1400 rpm 572Nm

Displacement 4.7 litres

Cooling system Liquid-cooled

Fuel injection system Bosch

Weight 490 kg

Table 1.

The electric drive motors 163 each have at least one hydraulic pump 164. The two hydraulic systems are set-up so that one hydraulic pump 164 may drive hydraulic control components 512 (Fig. 5B) associated with the thrust cylinders and the hydraulic control components 11 (Fig. 5B) associated with providing operating torque to the raise-boring rig for drilling and reaming and the other hydraulic pump 164 is used to hydraulically operate the controls of the drill rod handling mechanisms. Such components to be hydraulically controlled include the systems that raise and lower the mast 154 and also the systems that drive the hydraulic tilt cylinder 155 that controls and varies the angle of inclination of the raise-boring rig assembly 180.

The power train assembly 160 ensures that the transporter 105 is self-powered and does not rely on an external power supply for its mobility within the mine. The engine 161 is supported on the rear chassis 142 and transmits torque via the transmission 16, to both the front wheels 146 and the rear wheels 147.

The mast 154 is free to raise and lower while retaining the raise-boring rig 180.

Furthermore the raise-boring carrier assembly 150 can be tilted, using the hydraulic tilt cylinder 155, while still retaining the raise-boring rig 180. The tilt mechanism is capable of moving the mounting platform 153 through about a 40 degree arc. This can be divided into ±20 degrees from the vertical axis of the mast.

The power conduit assembly 170 is attached to the rear chassis 142, for example at the rear mounting face 145. The power conduit assembly 170 comprises the power conduit 171 and the conduit carrier 172. The conduit 171 and carrier 172 may be mounted and supported on a rear support member 173 that is affixed to a towing rig 174. The rear support member 173 may be mounted directly to the rear mounting face 145 of the rear chassis 142. The power conduit assembly 170 utilises electrical power received via power conduit 171 to supply electrical power to the electric drive motors 163, which power the hydraulic pumps 164 that in turn hydraulically power the raise-boring rig assembly 180, including raise-boring arm assembly 190. The hydraulic power is used to generate the necessary operating torque for all drilling and reaming functions and also to drive the drill rod handling mechanisms, as described below in relation to Figures 5 A to 5D.

The power conduit 171 is trailed out behind the transporter 105, as it travels through the mine tunnels, and is to be coupled to the mine main power source. The power conduit 171 may be wound and unwound onto the power conduit carrier 172, repeatedly in order to appropriately position the mobile support system. However, the power conduit 171 may remain attached to both the reel 172 and the mobile support system 100 at all times.

The transporter 105 is equipped with a l,000v electrical supply and control system to allow operation of the two 75kW electrical motors 163 that drive the hydraulic pumps 164. The electrical system also encompasses various smaller functions that are driven through step-down transformers, for example lighting and battery charging. The electrical systems are fully compliant to the Australian Mines Department Standards and Regulations. The transporter 105 connects to the mine's power supply via the power conduit 171, which has a cross sectional area of about 35mm ² , that is stored on the power conduit carrier 172, behind the transporter 105 and then through a collector box to an HV (high voltage) enclosure.

Table 2 provides some typical values of an embodiment of the transporter 105.

Table 2.

The raise-boring rig 180 is capable of fully operating while attached to the transporter 105 and does not need to be hydraulically disengaged. This allows the raise- boring rig 180 to be put into use, then adjusted or repositioned without the need for any decoupling. The current method of positioning electrical, fluid connections and relocation of the raise-borer 180 is time consuming and includes many required risk assessments to comply with legislated work practices. The current process is slow and risky, albeit an approved method of positioning and operating a raise-boring rig. The mobile raise-boring system 100 provides substantial time savings to the operator during set up and allows for a quicker completion time for each bore. For example, a normal 24 hour set up time may be reduced to around 4 hours.

The transporter 105 is designed to not only transport and position the raise-borer but to also function as the sole operating station. This therefore eliminates the need for a separate raise-borer operating station, along with all associated components, including operating consoles, on-board hydraulics, lighting and controls. Practices current as of June 2011 require a team to position a raise-boring rig (about 7960kg), the electrically operated hydraulic power pack (about 2250kg) and also position the operator's station (about 280kg), then connect all hydraulic functions and then connect a power conduit (about 310kg).

The operating console 131 for the raise-boring rig 180 is located in the cabin

130 of the mobile support system 100. This allows for the raise-boring rig 180 to be fully controlled from the transporter 105, and also allows for the mobile raise-boring system 100 to be delivered on site fully set-up and ready to position at the boring site. Without the described embodiments, a significant amount of time would be required to properly connect all of the hydraulic systems necessary to run the raise-boring rig 180.

The hydraulic system fitted to the transporter 105 and raise-boring rig 180 is uniquely designed to suit the transporter and compliment the working parameters of the raise-boring rig to improve the operator's working environment. The hydraulic system is designed for safety and includes no high pressure hydraulics within the cabin 130. It also includes an externally accessible and operable pendant control 910 to enhance operator visibility and an external safety switch to halt rotating equipment on the raise- boring rig 180.

The hydraulic systems are primarily on board the transporter 105 except for the quick connect couplings between the transporter 105 and the raise-borer rig 180. The hydraulic system is temperature monitored and controlled via a water or air cooling system and is equipped with a shut-down system in case the temperature exceeds the predetermined limit. Fig. 5A shows a detailed hydraulic schematic of an embodiment of the hydraulic control components 500. This is not intended to be limiting on the hydraulic layouts that may be applied, but merely instructive. The main hydraulic circuits of the mobile support system 100 include several hydraulic groups. Hydraulic group 510 includes the hydraulics of the raise-boring rig itself, which are shown and described in relation to Fig. 5B. Hydraulic group 520 includes controls that are operable from the operators control console 131 within the cabin 130. These are further detailed in Fig 5C. Hydraulic group 530 includes controls that may be operated from the pendent control, which function both inside and outside the cabin 130. These are further detailed in Fig. 5D.

Hydraulic control components 500 include a three-way switch 540. This switch 540 is used to select one of three functions of the raise-boring rig arm assembly 190 and is operable by a manual switch 614 on panel 132 or similar component on the pendant control, those functions being: normal operation mode, screw or unscrew, and tighten rods together.

A motor and pump 550 controls gearbox lubrication for the raise-boring rig 180.

A suction filter 560 is also provided for as part of the hydraulic control system 500. This filter is responsible for filtering all hydraulic fluids from the hydraulic fluid reservoir 580, which is located on the transporter 105. The hydraulic fluid reservoir 580 supplies hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic systems used by the transporter 105 and the raise-boring rig 180. The hydraulic fluid reservoir 580 for the hydraulic fuel pumps may contain approximately 250 litres of oil. A hydraulic drive 570, which comprises motor 163 and pump 164 is used to provide hydraulic power to a rotational drive mechanism 511 of the raise-borer 180.

In Figure 5 A, line 590 divides the schematic into two sections. The hydraulic groups above the line 590 generally relate to the raise-boring rig 180 and arm assembly 190. The hydraulic groups below line 590 generally belong to the mobile support system 100.

Fig. 5B is an enlarged schematic representation of hydraulic group 510 and shows the hydraulics layout for the raise-boring rig in this embodiment. A rotation motor 511 on the raise-borer 180 controls the forward and reverse motion of the rotation of the drill string. Thrust cylinders 512 on the raise-boring rig 180 control the two drilling/reaming directions, up and down, dependant on the selected function of the raise-boring rig 180. Clamp cylinders 513 are provided as part of the raise-boring rig arm assembly 190 along with a swing cylinder 514 and a shift cylinder 516. The swing cylinder 514 controls the swinging motion of the arm 190 when adding or removing a rod to or from the drill string. The shift cylinder 516 controls the transversal motion of the arm 19, when adding to the drill string. A tilt cylinder 515controls the tilting motion of the raise boring rig 180 relative to the joists 152 to angle the boring direction relative to the ground surface.

Fig. 5C is an enlarged view of hydraulic group 520, which shows a detailed 'layout of hydraulic controls responsive to controls on the operator console hydraulics. An additional rotation control unit 521 may be connected in parallel with certain of the hydraulic controls 520, but may be actually situated outside of the cabin 130. This externally mounted control unit 521 is manually actuated.

Hydraulic group 520 also includes control valves 522 and 523, where valve 522 controls rotation and valve 523 controls the drilling or reaming action.

Fig. 5D is an enlarged schematic representation of hydraulic group 530, which is physically located on the pendant control 910. The pendant control 910 enables the operator to leave the cabin 130 and still control and adjust the raise-boring rig 180. This may be advantageous for fine tuning the rig 180 before commencing operations, especially where line-of-sight cannot be achieved from the interior of the cabin 130.

The hydraulic control circuits that can be activated from the pendant control 910 are as follows: circuit 531 controls the transverse motion of the raise-boring; circuit 532 controls the drill or reamer; circuit 533 controls the swing of the arm assembly 190; circuit 534 controls the gear shift of the raise-boring rig 180; and circuit 536 controls the clamps of the raise-boring rig 180.

Fig. 6 shows an example operating console. The indicators, gauges and switches are labelled in the drawing from 601 - 621. Indicator lamp 601 is for the parking and emergency brakes. The lamp lights when the brakes are applied and when the pressure drops below 15 bar. Warning lamp 602 is for the travel brakes. The warning lamp 602 lights when the oil pressure falls below 110 bar. Warning lamp 603 is an indicator for the temperature and coupling pressure of the oil in the hydraulic transmission 162. The warning lamp lights when oil temperature is higher than 120°C, or coupling pressure is lower than 12 bar at an engine speed of 2000rpm. When the lamp lights constantly during driving, this indicates a fault which must be rectified. Warning lamp 604 is for the Hydraulic oil level. The Lamp lights when the oil level is too low. Warning indicator lamp 605 is a spare and not in use.

Warning lamp 606 is for the engine coolant level, where the lamp lights when the level of coolant is low. Warning lamp 607 is for the diesel engine temperature. The lamp lights when the temperature exceeds 155°C. If the lamp lights, the operator must stop the engine immediately, investigate and where possible rectify problem.

Warning lamp 608 is for engine oil pressure. The lamp lights when pressure falls below 0.5bar. If warning lamp 608 illuminates (while the engine is running) the engine must be stopped immediately and the problem investigated. Warning lamp 609 is the engine pre-heat indicator. It will illuminate while the engine glow plugs are being pre-heated.

Engine Alternator charge lamp 610 should not light during normal driving. Lamp 610 lights immediately when the engine is switched on, and before the engine is started.

Push button lamp 611 is a test switch. Lamp 611 lights the warning lamps 2, 4, 6, and 7. Warning lamp 611 should not normally light when the ignition is switched on. Hour-Meter Indicator 612 shows the numbers of hours the diesel engine has run for. Fuel gauge 613 indicates the reserves of fuel within the fuel tank.

The gear and directional switch 614 has 7 positions and indicates the gear selected at a given time. This is the transmission control for the transporter 105. F is for the forward direction (towards the tines or forks of the system) and this is engaged through gear selections 1 , 2 and 3. N is for Neutral (the starting position for the engine) and R is for the Reverse or rearward direction, (towards the engine of the system) and this is also engaged through gear selections 1 , 2 and 3.

Push button switch 615 will activate the emergency and parking brakes for the transporter. The parking brakes must be engaged for the engine start button 618 to function.

Switch 616 is for activating the tramming lights and switch 617, will activate the HID (high intensity discharge) work lights.

Switch 618 is the ignition switch, and labelled as the engine start/stop switch. The key has several positions. When turned clockwise from the neutral position there is a first position, ignition and a second position for the warm-up function. When the key is inserted and turned, current is directed to starting the transporter, lighting and the park brake system. The engine is stopped when the key is turned into the neutral position.

Button 621 provides the transporter with a horn function, and is located to the left of the operator control panel. Button 622 is a Park Brake interlock for the hydraulic control cabinet 165 that releases the Emergency and Park brake. The door of cabinet 165 must be closed, and the Brake release 615 disengaged. The operator may then press button 622. This will release the brake. If the door of cabinet 165 has been left open, the park brake will continue to apply.

There are a number of ancillary panels to the main operator console 131, as shown in Figures 8A, 8B and 8C. Fig. 8A shows the operator controls for the carrier jacks. The jack control panel 801 has a switch 802, that turns the jack on or off, and two selector switches. One switch for the front jacks 803, and a switch for the rear jacks 804.

Fig. 8B shows an example control panel 810 for the carrier attachment 150 and raise-borer rig 180 (RB40) controls. Panel 810 comprises five switches. To activate any hydraulic function (via switches) on this panel 810, a POS PUMP switch 812 must be turned on. This function engages the hydraulic positioning pump and pressurises the system. This switch 812 should be turned to the off position when a hydraulic function is not required.

Switch 811 controls the power conduit carrier 172, and selects the direction to reel the power conduit 171, that being either in or out. To wind-out a section of the trailing power conduit, the out position on the cable reel switch is selected. When connecting the cable to the power source, the power conduit should be secured, via a cable sock, to a suitable anchor point. Leaving the switch 811 in the off position and driving the transporter forward in first gear will allow the power conduit to peel off the power conduit carrier 172. To wind-in the power conduit 171, the operator must firstly leave the power conduit secured (via the cable sock) to the anchor point and then select the "IN" position on the cable reel switch 811, and drive the transporter 105 allowing the cable to feed back on the reel.

Switch 813 activates the carriage 154 for up and down travel. Switch 814 activates the carriage 154 for tilting forward and backwards travel.

Fig. 8B further shows a tilt switch 815. Switch 815 is used to cause the raise- boring rig to tilt, on the mounting platform 153 (also referred to as the skid base). This functionality is used to locate and angularly position the raise-boring assembly 180 ready for use at its destination.

Fig. 8C shows the internal cabin hydraulic indicator panel 820. It contains three indicator lamps and the on/off switch for the movable HID work lights 821. The three indicator lamps 823, 824 and 825 consecutively show the activation of the tramming cooler, the temperature of the hydraulic system and whether there are any blockages in the filter system.

The environmentally controlled operator cabin 130 provides an improved level of comfort for the operator both below and above ground. In some embodiments, the cabin 130 may be insulated for noise reduction. This will minimise the noise within the cabin only, and provide an added level of protection for the operator's hearing ability. In a preferred embodiment, the sound-proofing would be sufficient that noise within the cabin would not exceed 80 dBa.

The cabin 130 may be slightly positively pressurised relative to the outside environment to provide additional safety to the operator, thereby minimising ingress of dust and other air-borne contaminants into the cabin environment. In some embodiments the cabin 130 may comprise an air conditioning unit is run from the mobile support system 100 electrical power supply, allowing the operator to adjust the temperature within the cabin 130. A steering wheel 133, as shown in Fig.6 may be provided at, for example, a steering Angle of ±41 ° .

Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of the pendant control 910, which is attached to the cabin 130, and may be operated from both inside and outside of the cabin 130. The controls on the pendant control 910 interface with the hydraulic controls 530 of the raise-boring rig 180 and raise-boring rig arm 190. The pendant control 910 has six functions. Each function is controlled by a separate button or switch or other control element. The transverse motion of the arm is controlled by a first button 931. A second button 932 controls the drilling and reaming function of the raise-boring rig 180. A third button 933 controls the swing of the raise-boring arm 190. A fourth button 934 controls the tilt of the raise-boring rig 180. A fifth button 935 controls the g/shift of the raise-boring rig and a sixth button 936 controls the clamps of the raise-boring rig 180.

In an example provided for purposes of illustration only, the identification numbers and plates as applied to the chassis assembly are as detailed in the following Table 3.

1. Carrier Type DC 17B

Series No AV0 98A211

2. Diesel engine ,type Duetz B4FM1 01 C (Liquid Cooled)

Series No 00317427 3. Transmission, type Clark T24000 ( long drop)

13.6HR -24341-3

Series type YBE AOl 731408-98

4. Wheel Axle (Attachment End), type Hurth 176/137

Series, type Y-ITA-740251

5. Wheel Axle (Engine end),type Hurth 175/137

Series, type Y-ITA-748252

Table 3.

The overall technical data for an example of the transporter 105 are as set out in Table 4.

Diesel Engine

Type Duetz B4FM1013C

Rating B DIN 6270 112Kn

Max. Torque 572Nm

Transmission system

Type Hydrodynamic. Clark T240000

13.6HR 24341-3

Axles

Wheel Axle (attachment) Section Hurth 176/137

Wheel Axle (engine) section Hurth 175/137

Brake System

Travel Brakes Hydraulic disc in oil bath on all four wheels, twin circuit system.

Parking/Emergency brake Hydraulic/ mechanical on all four wheels.

Wheels

Tyres 12.00 - 20 (Xmine D2)

Rims 8.5 - 20

Tyre Pressure 0.9 Mpa (9 bar)

Steering system

Type Hydrostatic

Steering Valve, type Danfoss OSPB 630 ON

Gear Pump 25.4 cm ³ /rev

Working Pressure, max 14 Mpa (140 bar)

Steering cylinder, double acting 125/385

?

-

Positioning pump

Gear pump, displacement 20.3cm ³ /rev

Electrical

Voltage 24v

Alternator 35A /28v

Batteries 2 x 12v, 70Ah

Earth Connection Minus pole (- pole)

Table 4.

Numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. LEGEND

Description Name

Mobile Support System for Raise-Boring Rig Transporter Front-End of Mobile Support System Front Rear-End of Mobile Support System Rear

Environmentally Controlled Operator Compartment Cabin Internal Operator Control Console

Control gauges and switch panel

Steering Wheel

Accelerator pedal

Foot Brake

Pedestal

Auto Fuse Location

Mobile Support System Chassis Chassis Front Chassis

Rear Chassis

Lubricated chassis joint Chassis joint Front Mounting Face

Rear Mounting Face

Front Wheels

Rear Wheels

Operator mounting frame Mount Frame Front chassis cross-member

Raise-Borer Carrier Assembly Carrier Tines Tines I-beam joists I-beams Mounting Platform Platform Mast

Hydraulic Tilt Cylinder Tilt Cylinder Mast Pivot Point Mast Pivot Carriage

Raise-Boring Rig mounting holes

Mast Hydraulic Cylinder

Power Train Assembly Power Train Engine

Transmission

Electric Drive Motor

Hydraulic Pump

Hydraulic Control Panel

Power Conduit Assembly

Power Conduit

Power Conduit Carrier

Rear Support platform

Towing Rig

Conduit Guide

Raise-Boring Rig Assembly RB-rig Mounting Feet

Retention Element

Raise-Boring Rig Arm Assembly RB-arm Schematic Hydraulic Layout

Hydraulic Schematic of Raise-Boring Rig

Rotation Motor of Raise Boring Rig

Thrust Cylinders of Raise Boring Rig

Clamp Cylinders of Raise Boring Rig 14 Swing Cylinder of Raise-Boring Rig

15 Tilt Cylinder of Raise-Boring Rig

16 Shift Cylinder of Raise-Boring Rig

20 Hydraulic Schematic of the Operator console 21 External Rotation Control

22 Internal Rotation Control

23 Internal Drill/Ream Control

30 Hydraulic Schematic of the Pendent control 31 Traverse Pendant Control

532 Drill Ream Pendant Control

533 Swing Pendant Control

534 Tilt Pendant Control

535 G/Shift Pendant Control

536 Clamp Pendant Control

540 3 Way Select Switch

550 Raise-Boring Rig Gear Box Lubrication Pump

560 Suction Filter for Hydraulic Fluid

570 Electrically Driven Rotation Pump

580 Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir

590 Hydraulic Schematic Division Line

601 Park Brake Indicator

602 Service Brake Indicator

603 Transmission Temperature Indicator

604 Oil Level Indicator

605 Spare Indicator

606 Engine Coolant Indicator Engine Temperature Indicator

Engine Oil Pressure Indicator

Engine Pre-Heat Indicator

Alternator charge Indicator

Lamp Test Indicator

Engine Hour Meter Gauge

Diesel Fuel Gauge

Gear and Directional Switch

Park Brake Switch

Tramming Lights Switch

HID Work Lights

Engine Start/Stop Switch

Horn Button

Park Brake Interlock for hydraulic cabinet Carrier Jack Control Panel

Carrier Jack on/off switch

Carrier Jack Front Selector Switch

Carrier Jack Rear Selector Switch

Attachment and Tilt Control Panel

Cable reel direction switch

POS pump on/off switch

Attachment vertical direction selector switch Attachment translational direction selector switch Raise-Boring Rig Tilt direction switch

Hydraulic Indicator Panel

HID lights on/off switch Tramming Cooler Indicator Lamp Temperature Indicator Lamp Filter Blockage Indicator Lamp Operator Pendant Control Traverse Switch

Drill/Ream Switch

Swing Switch

Tilt Switch

G/Shift Switch

Clamp Switch