AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EXTENSION OF CONVEYORS

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to material haulage operations which employ extendable belt conveyors to haul material from one location to another. Although the present invention will be described with particular reference to hauling coal in underground room and pillar coal mines as well as underground longwall coal mines, it will be appreciated that this is by way of example only and that the invention is not necessarily limited to this particular use. For example, the invention may be used in other types of underground mining operations, as well as surface coal mining operations. Also, the invention may be used in surface and underground mining operations which are not coal mining operations. Moreover, the invention may be used in tunneling operations which are not related to the mining industry. More generally, the invention may be used in material transfer operations which are neither mining nor tunneling operations. Brief Discussion of the Prior Art

Two common mining methods which are used in underground coal mines are room and pillar mining, and longwall mining. In room and pillar mining, a series of interconnected tunnels or development roadways are dug underground along a coal seam in a grid-like arrangement such that large pillars or blocks of coal are left behind to support the roof of the mine. Figure 1 depicts a development roadway and pillars of a typical underground longwall gateroad or room and pillar coal mine.

A continuous miner is typically used to develop the roadways in an underground room and pillar coal mine. A continuous miner is depicted at one end of the roadway shown in figure 1. A continuous miner is a machine which has a large rotating steel drum that moves up and down. The drum is equipped with teeth that cut coal from the coal face of the development roadway as the drum rotates. As the cut coal falls to the ground, large arms under the drum gather the coal onto a conveyor chain which carries the coal to the back of the machine. The coal may be unloaded at the back of the machine onto a shuttle car or onto a ram car or a flexible conveyor train or other haulage machine which hauls the coal to a belt conveyor which extends along the roadway towards the coal face and which hauls the coal along the roadway to another location. Alternatively, the coal may be unloaded at the back of the machine directly onto a fixed or mobile boot end which is coupled to the belt conveyor. The continuous miner depicted in figure 1 unloads coal onto a mobile boot end which is able to follow the continuous miner in close proximity as the continuous miner advances along the development roadway.

In longwall mining, the development roadways are dug to form large structured blocks of coal in the coal seam. After development of the roadways forms a block, a mechanical miner called a longwall machine is used to mine the coal in the longwall coal block. The longwall machine is installed in the coal seam to extract the block of coal. As the longwall machine advances, the roof of the underground mine is allowed to collapse in a planned sequence. The longwall machine has large chocks or shields that support the roof of the mine and protect the miners during mining. A rotating drum, called a shearer, cuts coal from the coal face as it traverses across the coal face. As more of the coal is cut, the machine moves forward or backwards relative to an adjacent roadway, depending upon the orientation of the longwall machine relative to the roadway. The orientation of the longwall machine is such that the machine moves backwards or forwards relative to the adjacent roadway. The roof behind the machine falls in a planned order as the machine moves.

The coal which is cut by the shearer drops onto a conveyor of the longwall machine and is transferred by the conveyor to a beam stage loader arrangement. The coal is transferred by the beam stage loader onto a fixed or mobile boot end which is coupled to a belt conveyor which extends along the roadway towards the coal face. The belt conveyor in turn hauls the coal along the roadway to another location. The beam stage loader which transfers coal from the conveyor of the longwall machine transfers coal onto a mobile boot end which is able to follow the longwall machine in close proximity as the machine retreats or advances along a roadway. Belt conveyors such as the ones depicted in Figures 1 and 2, are extended or retracted along the mined roadway cavity at periodic intervals. Such conveyors typically include a loop take-up, a jib and a drive head. The loop take-up extends and retracts the conveyor belt of the conveyor as the conveyor is respectively extended and retracted along the roadway. The jib, which is located at an opposite end of the conveyor to the boot end, is typically used to deposit the coal onto a heap to await further processing or transportation. The drive head, which is located between the jib and the loop take-up, circulates the conveyor belt of the conveyor.

As the fixed or mobile boot end moves along the roadway, the belt conveyor must be lengthened or shortened as appropriate. The conveyor is typically rendered inoperable during the extension and retraction process causing coal mine production from the development roadway or longwall to cease or slow.

As the belt conveyor is lengthened, appropriate support structure must be put in place to support the conveyor belt in order to transport material along the lengthened belt conveyor. Typically, the support means is erected manually using a large number of components which are to be delivered to the assembly point. This manual erection of the support means is both time and labour-intensive as well as difficult due to the limited access to the roadway. It is a disadvantage of current conveyor building/assembly methods that the mining operation must cease or slow when the conveyor is extended or retracted. Some prior art forms allow for limited extension or retraction of the conveyor during its construction, however all or prior art forms prevent the conveyor support structure from being extended over long distances. In addition, the prior art forms prevent the conveyor support structure being extended rapidly whilst the conveyor belt continues to operate during mine production or during short breaks in mine production. Furthermore, the prior art forms do not allow for continual mining because of the excessive time taken to prepare for end extend the conveyor each time it is required to be extended. Still further, the prior art forms do not separate the work areas between the continuous miner and the conveyor support structure assembly area preventing the two areas from being operated coincidentally. The prior art forms do not provide a means to mechanically handle neither the conveyor support structure components nor the conveyor components themselves when performing conveyor extensions and require the components to be manhandled both to the assembly area and into position. This results in a substantial amount of physical labour being required which then presents occupational, health and safety risks to operators. Finally, the prior art methods do not facilitate the collocation of the entire quantity nor even a substantial amount of the conveyor components required to extend the conveyor to be transported to the conveyor assembly area without the need for restocking of components. It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

Summary of the Invention. The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for extension of conveyors, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice. With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in an apparatus for the extension of conveyors, the apparatus including at least one conveyor assembly module and a plurality of conveyor component modules associated with the conveyor assembly module wherein each of the conveyor component modules provide one or more components to the conveyor assembly module to be assembled into a conveyor support structure.

According to an alternative embodiment, the invention resides in a method for assembling a conveyor support structure for the extension of a conveyor using a conveyor assembly module, the method including the steps of providing at least one conveyor assembly module and a plurality of conveyor component modules, each conveyor component module having one or more components to be used in the conveyor support structure, motivating at least one H-frame into a H-frame receptacle in a conveyor assembly module, motivating stringer indexer to place a pair of stringers into stringer receptacles on conveyor assembly module, aligning stringers with H- frames using an alignment mechanism on the conveyor assembly module, fixing the stringers to the H-frame at fixing points, motivating at least one outbye and inbye trough rollers onto stringers, aligning the at least one outbye and inbye trough rollers with stringers, and fixing the at least one outbye and inbye trough rollers to stringers.

According to the method when the at least one outbye and inbye trough rollers are fixed to the stringers, any carrier is removed in the process. According to a further preferred embodiment, the invention resides in a conveyor assembly module adapted to be associated with a plurality of conveyor component modules, each of the conveyor component modules adapted to index one or more components to the conveyor assembly module to be assembled into a conveyor support structure in a predetermined order, the conveyor assembly module including temporary holding mechanisms for each component and at least one adjustment mechanism to adjust the position of the components relatively to one another such that the positioning of the components relative to one another to form a conveyor support structure is achieved automatically. The apparatus of the present invention has been specifically devised in order to provide an improved apparatus and method of extending underground coal mine conveyors. The invention is applicable to all conveyors that require extension. Typically, the apparatus moved along a development roadway and leaves a conveyor support structure to support a continuous conveyor thereon, behind as the apparatus moves forward.

A "continuous miner" cuts coal at the development roadway coal face. The coal is transported to a development conveyor which conveys coal out of the development roadway. The continuous miner and development conveyor operate at distances that can be hundreds of metres away from each other.

Preferably the apparatus will be located longitudinally with respect to the length of the development conveyor within the development roadway. The apparatus is installed at the inbye end of the development conveyor.

The apparatus is preferably stocked with conveyor components either when the conveyor belt is stopped or during mine operation such that downtime for extension of the conveyor is reduced or substantially eliminated.

The apparatus or modules thereof, may be motivated longitudinally along a roadway: under its own propulsion system; by other mining equipment, a propulsion device fitted to the apparatus; or a propulsion device fitted to other mine equipment. Typically, the apparatus will be moved longitudinally along the roadway by a Load Haul Dump vehicle ("LHD") or a Moving Tail Pulley ("MTP") or under its own propulsion system but the preferred means is use of a mobile boot end ("MBE") in conjunction with the apparatus. Normally, the propulsion device will follow the roadway dug by the continuous miner with the apparatus of the present invention located between the propulsion device and in the development conveyor.

The apparatus of the present invention may include an extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor, a preferred form of which is described in International Patent Publication No. WO 2009/073923 which is incorporated herein by reference. The extendable support (ES) apparatus allows the conveyor belt to continuously haul material even while the extendable support apparatus is being extended or retracted to lengthen or shorten the conveyor belt.

The extendable support apparatus may therefore typically facilitate the extension of the conveyor belt and the apparatus of the present invention, will in one form, provide for the extension of the support structure for the conveyor belt as required. Together, the two apparatus can form an integrated solution for extending the conveyor. The apparatus may be applied to static or dynamic conveyor belts.

When applied statically, the modules are preferably designed to remain in situ without restricting the development conveyor or the movement of product over the development conveyor. When applied dynamically, the modules typically move along the development conveyor, whilst moving and operating in conjunction with mining equipment.

When operating statically, the carry side of the conveyor belt is usually diverted over or through the apparatus or modules thereof by a roller arrangement.

When operating dynamically, the development conveyor belt is preferably supported on rollers, skids or troughs such that the development conveyor belt line is largely maintained. In the dynamic configuration, the product carry side of the development conveyor and material borne upon it may pass over and through the apparatus or modules.

The apparatus or modules may be motivated by the attachment of tracks, wheels, hydraulic pushing cylinders or more commonly, by way of articulated links or wire winch ropes that enable the apparatus or modules to draw itself inbye towards the coal face synchronously as the conveyor is constructed. The apparatus or modules are optionally able to be self-motivated independently or alternatively by connecting hydraulic or electric power sources or in conjunction with hydraulic cylinders, wheels, tracks or mobile pads. The apparatus or modules may rest directly on the mine floor, on structural steel pads, wheels or one of a variety of articulated jacks affixed to each module. The apparatus or modules may be motivated laterally across a roadway by optionally affixed articulation jacks. The preferred embodiments of the articulation jacks are hydraulic actuators, although it should be appreciated that articulation may be achieved by: rotatable tracks, rotatable wheels, articulation pads or extendable push rods.

In the alternative, the ground contacting modules may be mounted on skids, wheels, tracks or pads that can be 'walked', motivated and steered by towing, hydraulically or electrically.

Conventional controls may be provided to enable an operator to selectively operate the mechanism. Controls may also be automated, being controlled by a computer or hydraulic sequencing valves to operate the apparatus or individual or groups of modules.

The apparatus typically provides for the carriage of a full pillar quantity of conveyor belt structure and idlers although this can be varied to suit each particular application. Preferably, roof and rib support materials are able to be carried on the apparatus or additional modules if required. Idlers may be of flat or Vee construction and be fixed on pivots at set intervals to support the conveyor belt over and through the invention. Alternatively, skid bars may be applied to support and guide the conveyor belt through and over the Invention.

The apparatus or modules can be made from a combination of steel, carbon fibre, composite material, plastic-based materials and motivational components.

The apparatus or modules may optionally incorporate a monitoring device to detect for relative movement between it and other equipment.

The apparatus is capable of being automated to operate conveyor construction automatically and to motivate the apparatus inbye towards the coal face at particularized velocities manually, automatically or by remote control.

It should be appreciated that the functions described in one module may be incorporated into other modules as convenient.

In use, the apparatus of the invention is typically attached to a boot end either by way of articulated links or through a conveyor belt extending structure that enables the boot end to draw away from the apparatus as the boot end moves towards the mine face synchronously with the continuous miner if desired. Optionally, items of equipment called shuttle cars, ram cars, a flexible conveyor train, armoured face conveyor, bridge conveyor or other means of material conveyance may be employed between the continuous miner and the boot end to transfer material.

The apparatus according to a particularly preferred embodiment includes a superstructure suitably constructed to enable cassettes or modules of development conveyor components to be installed in relation thereto. The cassettes or modules carry the development conveyor H-frames, normally with return rollers attached thereto, stringers, trough rollers and fixing pins.

A safe work zone ("SWZ") is incorporated into the superstructure whereby no moving parts are exposed to human interfaces. Attached to the superstructure or to each individual module are preferably motivating means such as winches or the like which enables the invention to be drawn toward the boot end when required. The motivating means are typically situated on the end of the superstructure closest to the mine face.

As the apparatus of the present invention will preferably have a modular configuration. Each of modules provided will typically carry multiples of the same type of specific conveyor component required to extend the conveyor support structure for the developmental conveyor. Each module preferably provides components in an indexed manner as required, in order to assemble the components into the conveyor support structure. As mentioned above, the modules may be connected directly to one another or the modules may be associated with a superstructure, to enable movement of all the modules along the roadway during expansion and contraction of the conveyor. Where connected to one another, the modules are typically connected to one another using pinned gussets or the like. The modules in the preferred propulsion device are preferably connected using flexible tension members.

Importantly for the purposes of the present invention, the modules may be connected in any configuration. The modules may be connected in series or parallel in a combination of these configurations. Where configured in parallel, the parallel configuration may be side by side but is typically on a height basis, with one or more modules being stacked on top of one another.

The number and type of modules provided in the apparatus is chosen to suit the particular application and the configuration of the modules themselves chosen to suit the quantities, shape, and weight of the conveyor components. Further, the order or location of the modules with respect to the conveyor assembly module may be varied to suit the limitations on the apparatus or the peculiarities of the material handling situation.

The apparatus or modules may be adapted to any conveyor dimension or configuration through changes to modules or the components.

The modules each have a number of features which are more or less standard across all modules. For example, each module is configured to enable it to be transported easily through the roadway which is typically no larger than 5.2 m wide and 3.5 m in height. Each of the modules can be attached to one or more other modules or to the superstructure. Each module may be provided with its own base or may alternatively be fixed onto an elongate superstructure situated in the development roadway.

Each of the modules will typically be provided with at least one indexing device or mechanism. Alternatively, where the modules are provided on or in a unitary superstructure, a single indexing device or mechanism may be provided with the indexing device extending over the full length of the superstructure.

Each of the modules will typically include a frame mounted on a base, and the conveyor components are typically loaded into or onto the frame. Typically, each of the modules is installed and removed from its position relative to the conveyor assembly module using a lifting device having forks or crane as examples.

Each module will typically be open on at least one lateral side thereof to allow the return and carry sides of the conveyor belt to pass into each prospective module on installation.

Each module will have one or more holding devices or releasable retention mechanism to temporarily hold each component therein the end to release each component for use as required. Alternatively, the next component to be dispensed may be retained, thereby retaining all of the following components. In one form, indexing chains/pins could be exchanged with a rotary auger that 'pushes' the carriers along the guide with its blades.

As mentioned above, each of the modules except possibly the conveyor assembly module, preferably operate on an indexing principle. Any indexing mechanism may be used, for example rotary indexing or linear indexing. The particular form of indexing mechanism used may vary between modules. However, the indexing mechanism on each module is preferably controlled to release a component based either on a time principle, through a stepwise actuation or through manually actuated release. Typically, from outbye to inbye, the arrangement of the modules is ordered: stringer module; conveyor assembly module, H-frame indexer module with one or more trough modules stacked on the H-frame indexer module and one or more H-frame supply modules. The dimensions and profile of the arrangement may be suited to a wide variety of mine roadway dimensions whilst holding and transporting the required amount of conveyor components.

A preferred embodiment of each module will now be described:

The stringer modules preferably comprise a structural frame mounted with rotary indexers (such as barrel or drum indexers) or linear indexers (such as chain indexers) mounted on friction reduced rails, or screw threads or rack and pinion drives. The indexers may be mounted on pivoting arms to allow adjustment of their position, particularly relative to the conveyor assembly module. Normally, a pair of stringer indexers will be provided, one on each lateral side of the stringer module.

Stringer modules in the form of barrel or drum indexers are comprised of a cylindrical structure compartmentalised to hold a determined number of stringers in cells. Each cell contains at least one open slot along its length in which a stringer indexer is able to be longitudinally motivated to push individual stringers out of each compartment or cell. The stringer indexer is comprised of a rack and pinion drive or alternatively a linear actuator fitted with an indexer finger. The cylindrical structure is mounted on bearings which enable it to rotate and be indexed, typically using a hydraulic actuator or motor. Each compartment cell can be sequentially aligned with the stringer indexer finger.

In certain configurations, the stringer module(s) may be fitted with a means of mechanically raising to facilitate installation and retraction through the conveyor.

The H-frame indexer module preferably comprises an H-frame indexer chain with the capacity to store a reserve of H-frames, a structural frame, guides, carriers, a sled loading mechanism, connection points and structural supports for the preferred stacked trough modules. The indexer may be comprised of synchronously driven chains on a friction reduced track, screw threads, rack and pinions or their equivalent. The H-frames may be fitted with a carrier interface or alternatively each carrier may incorporate an H-frame interface. The chain drive typically motivates H- frames and carriers along a pre-determined guide. The H-frames are motivated by synchronous contact with the bearing portions of the indexer. The indexer drive motivates the H-frames and carriers along the guide such that they follow the locus of the carriers in the guide to which they contact. The H-frame indexer module carriers can incorporate offsets to allow the H-frames to overlap one another to compact the number of H-frames into a smaller length.

The H frame indexer module will normally be provided with a number of indexing mechanisms. Typically, there will be an indexing mechanism provided on each lateral side of the indexer module. Preferably, there will be a pair of upper H frame indexers located on each lateral side of the indexer module and a pair of lower H frame indexers located towards a midline of the indexing module. Each of the H frame indexers will preferably be driven by a chain drive. The H-frame indexers may be raised or lowered by mechanical means.

The H-frame indexer module preferably also incorporates H-frame sled winches, H-frame sled tracks, and a H-frame sled lowering mechanism. The H-frame sled winches are preferably provided to allow the H frame indexer module to draw the H frame sleds (which typically follow the H frame indexer module) into the H frame indexer module. The winches are normally provided in a lower portion of the H frame indexer module.

The H frame sled tracks are typically substantially U-shaped in order to receive at least a portion of the H frame sled or elongate guides therein. The H frame sled tracks are typically movable relative to the H frame indexer module in order to position the H frame sled to dispense the H frames in the correct position.

The trough or roller modules comprise an indexer and structural frame fitted with guides and carriers. The trough modules may be configured in parallel or alternatively opposing each other. The indexer may be comprised of synchronously driven chains on a friction reduced track, screw threads, rack and pinions or their equivalent. The indexer drive motivates carriers along a pre-determined guide. The trough rollers are motivated synchronously by contact with the bearing portions of the indexer and follow the locus of the guided carrier to which they contact. The trough module carriers can incorporate offsets to allow the trough rollers to overlap one another to compact the number of trough rollers into a smaller length.

The trough indexer is motivated by a motor, reducer and drives preferably situated at the inbye end of each trough module. The trough indexer drive is mounted on a swing arm arrangement. The indexer drives are preferably mounted on the inbye side structural members of the trough module. The inbye and outbye trough module structural beams are typically mounted as swing arms. The swing arms may be rotated into an open position. When in the open position, the development conveyor belt may be lowered through the trough module into its normal production operating position.

The guide members provided will typically be configured as a substantially U-shaped channel to receive a portion of the trough roller component therein and with a longitudinal opening in the base of the channel through which a portion of the trough roller component depends. In this way, each trough component will typically be suspended in the trough module. Therefore, when indexed to release the trough component, due to the suspension of the trough component and the preferred stacked position of the trough module above the H-frame indexing module, the trough module typically moves to the conveyor assembly module through gravity, although it can be driven if required.

The conveyor assembly module is comprised of connecting structure, an H-frame receptacle, at least one stringer receptacle on each lateral side of the module, fixing devices and alignment devices.

The H-frame receptacle is comprised of a frame and dampener which stops, holds and controls H-frames in position for stringer attachment.

The stringer receptacle is comprised of a dampener into which stringers from the left and right stringer indexers deposit stringers. The head of the stringer receptacle may be pivoted in one or more axes so as to rotate, thereby providing clearance for assembled H-frames and stringer conveyor modules to pass by it. The head of the stringer receptacle may also be provided with a slide portion to move the stringer receptacle towards and away from the midline of the module. The head of the stringer receptacle will typically be mounted on a height adjustable arm to provide adjustability of the height of the stringer. The arm will typically be raised towards the stringer module prior to release of a stringer from the stringer module such that the height which the stringer drops before being caught by the receptacle when dispensed, is minimised.

The H-frame supply modules are comprised of structural frames that store sleds of H-frames. The sleds are designed to be consecutively transferred into the H-frame indexer module along tracks. The H-frame sleds are fitted with pulling attachments and rollers or a friction reduced surface. The H-frame sleds are formed such that once the H-frames on each sled are loaded onto the H-frame indexer module, the sleds dismantle into storage locations. Alternatively, the H-frame supply modules may be adapted to allow the

H-frame indexing module to draw H-frames through the supply modules, into the H- frame indexing module and thence to the conveyor assembly module. In this configuration, the supply modules may be provided with channels that align or otherwise communicate with the H-frame indexing module to allow transit of the H- frames therealong.

Stringers from each of the left stringer indexer and the right stringer indexer are typically received onto the H-frame fixture points of the development conveyor and onto the H-frame situated in the H-frame receptacle of the conveyor assembly module. Conveyor components may be fitted to indexer devices in various configurations to suit the most convenient means of component configuration and attachment points.

One of the modules may be fitted with conveyor structure joining devices. Joining devices may be situated over conveyor assembly module preferably to attach the stringers to the H-frames. The joining action may optionally be performed manually.

According to a preferred embodiment, a chain indexer with a plurality of carriers may be provided with each carrier mounting a conveyor component and being driven along a carrier guide by the chain indexer. The chain indexer will typically include drive pins mounted on a chain attachment which is connected to the chain. The chain runs on a chain guide which is driven by a shaft through a linking pinion. The entire assembly is mounted on the support structure of the particular module to which is attached. The chain indexer is preferably a rotary form and has a drive side (upper side) and a return side (lower side). The carrier will preferably be provided with one or more guide recesses which are in turn mounted relative to an inverted U guide. The carriers can have an infinite variety of 'adaptor plates' fixed to it in order to mount the different conveyor components thereto. The shape and profile of the adaptor plate can be varied widely. It could be a hole into which a piece of the trough roller or H-frame fits. - Alternatively, the adaptor plate it could be a moulding that takes the shape of a stringer cross-section over which the trough roller bracket fits and pins to. In the case of the H-frames, the carrier may not be employed. That is, the H-frames may be mounted directly onto small pads on the chain or onto a flat adaptor or a Vz moon profile that nestles the H-frame or an adaptor bracket that might be fixed to the H-frame.

The carriers and the adaptor plates can be designed in a variety of design profiles to interact with whatever selected drive mechanism is selected.

The configuration of the chain drive can be varied to support conveyor components in a variety of ways that preferably handle the components gently without inflicting adverse loads onto them. That is, each component can be supported in the most optimal way to decrease risks in relation to damage to conveyor structure integrity which in turn affects warranties and the like.

In use of one preferred embodiment, the following steps are followed in the conveyor construction or assembly:

1. Motivate 1 H-frame into H-frame receptacle in conveyor assembly module.

2. Motivate stringer indexer to place 2 stringers into stringer receptacles on conveyor assembly module.

3. Align stringers with H-frames using the alignment mechanism on the conveyor assembly module.

4. Insert 4 pins or fix structure together at fixing points.

5. Motivate 1 outbye and inbye trough rollers onto stringers. 6. Align trough rollers with stringers.

7. Fix trough rollers to stringers (removing any carrier in the process).

8. Long travel the superstructure or series of modules inbye.

9. Repeat assembly process.

When the H-frame indexer is depleted of H-frames, the following steps are preferably followed:

1. Lower 'lower inner' chain indexers.

2. Raise H-frame sled receptacles.

3. Drop Sled ramps. 4. Connect tugger winch ropes to sleds.

5. Install replacement indexer carriages into 'upper outer' carriage tracks.

6. Tug Sled along Sled ramps into the H-frame indexer module.

7. Lower H-frame sled ramps so that H-frames contact 'lower inner' chain tracks and 'upper outer' carriages.

8. Re-commence assembly process.

As the other modules are depleted of components, they can typically be replaced, normally without loss of productivity or stopping the conveyor.

The apparatus of the present invention can also be utilised to disassemble and collect conveyor components by reversing the assembly process. For example, in conveyor disassembly, the following steps may be followed:

1. Reverse the direction of the H-frame indexer module motor/chain drives.

2. Motivate invention in outbye direction to contact the most inbye H-frame with the H-frame chain indexer guides. 3. Remove inbye and outbye trough rollers from conveyor length.

4. Remove fixings connecting H-frames and stringers together

5. Release the stringers from the H-frames.

6. Remove stringers.

7. Long travel apparatus outbye to the next H-frame. 8. Repeat disassembly process.

When a H-frame module has collected a full load of H-frames, the following steps can be followed:

1. Fit top holding bars and tie rods to the H-frame sled situated within the H- frame indexer. 2. Lower chain indexers.

3. Raise H-frame sled receptacles.

4. Drop Sled ramps.

5. Connect tugger winch ropes to sleds (NB: in the disassembly configuration the H-frame sled modules are typically installed in reverse orientation with the tugger winches situated at the inbye end of the H-frame sled modules.)

6. Tug Sled along channels into the H-frame sled module.

7. Reinstate H-frame indexer chains back into position.

8. Re-commence assembly process. Further, the apparatus can then be used to facilitate removal of components from a longwall conveyor according to the following preferred steps:

1. Remove outbye H-frame sled from outbye module.

2. Remove inbye H-frame sled from inbye module. 3. Re-instate carry and return belt into position.

The present invention therefore is able to:

(i) be easily, quickly and safely transported to the conveyor extension site; (ii) be easily, quickly and safely installed into the conveyor belt; (iii) transport one or more pillars of conveyor structure; (iv) facilitate the construction of the development conveyor structure rapidly and in short time;

(v) construct the conveyor structure by mechanical or electrical means with substantial reduction of manual lifting required of current methods of construction; (vi) optionally construct the conveyor structure during production with the belt operating;

(vii) be motivated synchronously as the conveyor structure is constructed; and (viii) improve workplace safety by largely removing the need to manually handle conveyor structure which typically weighs in excess of 2 tonnes per 120m of length.

It is a further advantage of this invention that heavier, larger, higher capacity structure can be employed in underground coal mines using the invention because it does not have to be manhandled.

Current underground conveyor widths are generally Im to 1.8m with structure sized to suit. These conveyors have a maximum production capacity of approximately 5000 tonnes per hour.

Implementing the present invention will preferably allow a conveyor belt of maximum width to be employed therefore allowing higher production rates/extraction rates. The present invention makes it feasible to employ a 2.5m wide belt in a gateroad. The resulting maximum production capacity jumps to 9000 - 10 000 tonnes per hour. Increasing the conveyor belt size represents a scale change in underground coal mining because it overcomes the conveyor capacity limitations which are the single factor preventing higher production from coal mines worldwide. It should be appreciated that this apparatus, while described with reference to underground coal mines also can be applied to any form of mining, tunnelling or material transfer, surface or underground. The apparatus has application in open cut and underground mines and industries wherever a degree of conveyor mobility and/or continual conveying is required.

Furthermore, while the present invention has been illustrated and described as embodied without a conveyor belt drive arrangement and LTU, the invention is not to be limited as the addition of a mobile drive arrangement and LTU enables a single, slip form conveyor assembler to be formed without being reliant upon conveyor belt motivation or conveyor belt from the fixed conveyor.

Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings. Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a plan view of a development roadway of an underground room and pillar coal mine and a prior art mining apparatus which extends along the roadway. Figure 2 is a plan view of a development roadway of an underground room and pillar coal mine or longwall gate road and a first preferred embodiment of a mining apparatus according to the third aspect of the present invention which extends along the roadway;

Figure 3 is a side elevation of a portion of a first preferred embodiment of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of the general arrangement of a modular apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention.

Figure 5 is an isometric view of an initial setup step according to a method of implementation of the present invention. Figure 6 is an isometric view of a second step in which the conveyor extending structure extends according to a method of implementation of the present invention.

Figure 7 is an isometric view of a third step in which the conveyor assembly station is moved forward towards the mobile boot end according to a method of implementation of the present invention.

Figure 8 is an isometric view corresponding to Figure 5 with the conveyor belt removed. Figure 9 is an alternative layout of the general arrangement of apparatus according to a further aspect of the present invention.

Figure 10 is an isometric view from one side and above of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 is a further isometric view from one side of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 12 is a further isometric view from one side and above of a H- frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13 is an isometric end view of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 is a further isometric end view of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15 is an isometric view from the reverse end of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 16 is an isometric view from above of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17 is an isometric view from below of a H-frame indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 18 is an isometric view of a trough roller indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 is an isometric view from one side of a trough roller indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 20 is an isometric view from the reverse side of a trough roller indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 21 is an end view of a trough roller indexer according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 22 is a detailed view of the portion marked "A" in Figure 21.

Figure 23 is an isometric view of a trough roller support module used according to a preferred embodiment. Figure 24 is an isometric view of a rotary form of a stringer indexer according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 25 is an end view of the rotary stringer indexer illustrated in Figure 24. Figure 26 is a front view of the rotary stringer indexer illustrated in

Figure 24.

Figure 27 is a sectional side view through the drum of the rotary stringer indexer illustrated in Figures 24 to 26.

Figure 28 is an isometric view of a linear form of stringer indexer according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 29 is an end view from one angle of the linear stringer indexer illustrated in Figure 28.

Figure 30 is an end view from a different angle of the linear stringer indexer illustrated in Figure 28. Figure 31 is a detailed view of the portion marked "B" in Figure 28.

Figure 32 is an isometric view of in assembling module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 33 is an end view of the pivot block marked "C" in Figure 32.

Figure 34 is a front view of the pivot block marked "C" in Figure 32. Figure 35 is an end view of a H-frame sled module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 36 is a side view of the H-frame sled module illustrated in Figure 35.

Figure 37 is a side view of a possible end for a sled module depicting motivation winches according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 38 is a front view of the assembly module illustrated in Figure 32.

Figure 39 is a side view of the assembly module illustrated in figure 32.

Figure 40 is a top view of a trough indexer according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 41 is an exploded front view of a H-frame indexer mounting an upper and a lower trough indexer.

Figure 42 is an exploded side view of the arrangement illustrated in Figure 41.

Figure 43 is an isometric view of an H-frame sled module with an adjacent H-frame sled module mounting a H-frame indexer according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 44 is an end view of a first lifting step in operation of a long, fixed the gantry lift with a side shift mechanism according to a preferred embodiment. Figure 45 is an end view of a second side shifting step in operation of a long, fixed the gantry lift with a side shift mechanism according to a preferred embodiment. Figures 46 to 69 illustrate the use from above, the side and the end respectively of a series of steps providing fine alignment of stringers and H-frames according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 70 is a view from above of the trough module carrier according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 71 is a cross-sectional view of the trough module carrier illustrating Figure 70 along line A-A.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment. According to a preferred embodiment, conveyor assembly station including a conveyor assembly module and a plurality of conveyor component modules is provided.

Referring to Figure 1, an underground longwall gateroad or room and pillar coal mine 100 includes a series of roadways 101 which are dug underground along a coal seam 102 in a grid-like arrangement such that large pillars or blocks 103 are left behind to support the roof of the mine 100. A mining apparatus 110 extends along a particular one of the roadways

101 which is being developed. Mining apparatus 110 includes a continuous miner 111 which is located adjacent to a coal face 112 of the mine 100, and a continuous haulage apparatus 113. The continuous miner 111 is operable to cut coal from the coal face 112 and to transfer the coal to the continuous haulage apparatus 113 which then hauls the coal to another location which is remote from the continuous miner 111.

The continuous haulage apparatus 113 includes a mobile boot end 114 which follows in close proximity to the continuous miner 111 as the continuous miner 1 11 moves forward along the roadway 101.

The continuous haulage apparatus 113 also includes an extendable support apparatus 116 which extends rearward from the mobile boot end 114. The end of the extendable support apparatus 116 which is located closest to the mobile boot end 114 is coupled to the mobile boot end 114 by an articulated linkage 117 so that as the mobile boot end 114 moves towards and away from the coal face 112, the extendable support apparatus 116 is respectively extended and retracted.

In addition, the continuous haulage apparatus 113 includes an extendable belt conveyor 118, and a belt structure building, installation and extension station 1 19 for extending the length of the belt conveyor 118 is connected to the extendable support apparatus 116 which is closest to the station 119 by an articulated joint 120 so that the station 119 is able to pivot laterally relative to that particular support apparatus 116. Each of the support apparatus 116 in the series 115 is connected to an adjacent support apparatus 116 by a respective articulated joint 120 so that they are able to pivot laterally relative to each other.

Belt conveyor 118 includes an endless conveyor belt which is supported by each extendable support apparatus 116. It also includes a jib 121, a drive 122 for circulating the conveyor belt, and a loop take-up 123 for extending and retracting the conveyor belt in response to extension and retraction of the extendable support apparatus 116 and conveyor 118.

The carry-side of the conveyor belt is contained and isolated in an enclosed structure. The return side of the conveyor is contained and isolated in an enclosed sheath. The station 119 includes guards 189 for this purpose so that no moving parts of the conveyor are exposed at the station 119. The guards 189 remain stationary and vertical actuation of the carry-side of the belt by a support occurs inside the width of the guarded area. An alternative construction is the application of a tripper structure that supports the conveyor belt by a series of trough rollers which in turn support the weight of the conveyor belt. This alternative construction allows the belt to be diverted vertically over a set of rollers, deflecting the belt over the working area of the station 119 as is illustrated in Figures 5 to 7. No vertical lifting component is necessary for this option.

The conveyor assembly station 10 according to a particularly preferred embodiment includes a superstructure suitably constructed to enable cassettes or modules of development conveyor components to be installed in relation thereto. The cassettes or modules carry the development conveyor H-frames with return rollers attached thereto (as illustrated in Figures 10 to 17), stringers, trough rollers and fixing pins. Alternatively, the conveyor assembly station could be a series of modules. A safe work zone ("SWZ") is incorporated into the superstructure whereby no moving parts are exposed to human interfaces.

Attached to the superstructure or to each individual module is a winch 11 or the like which enables the invention to be drawn toward the boot end when required. The winch 11 is typically situated on the end of the superstructure closest to the mine face.

The preferred conveyor assembly station 10 illustrated in Figure 4 has a modular configuration. Each of modules provided will typically carry multiples of the same type of specific conveyor component required to extend the conveyor support structure for the developmental conveyor. Each module preferably provides a component in an indexed manner as required, in order to assemble the components into the conveyor support structure.

As mentioned above, the modules are connected directly to one another or the modules may be associated with a superstructure, to enable movement of all the modules along the roadway during expansion and contraction of the conveyor. Where connected to one another, the modules are typically connected to one another using pinned gussets or the like.

One preferred configuration of the apparatus of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 4. From outbye to inbye, the arrangement of the modules is ordered: elevated stringer module 12, conveyor assembly module 13, H-frame indexer module 14 with a pair of trough modules 15 stacked on the H-frame indexer module 14 and a pair of H-frame supply modules 16. The dimensions and profile of this arrangement may be suited to a wide variety of mine roadway dimensions whilst holding and transporting the required amount of conveyor components.

An alternative, but less preferred configuration is illustrated in Figure 9, which illustrates the H frame indexer module located forwardly of a safe work zone 17 defined by screens or guards 189 on either side and followed by a pair of trough modules 15 to index trough rollers onto the assembled support structure 18.

One form of H-frame indexer module 14 is illustrated in Figures 10 to 17. A slightly alternative form of H frame indexer module is illustrated in Figures 41 and 42.

The H frame indexer module 14 illustrated in Figures 10 to 17 comprises a pair of H-frame chain indexers 19 with the capacity to store a reserve of H-frames 20, a structural frame 21, guides 22, carriers 23, The indexer may be comprised of synchronously driven chains on a friction reduced track.

The chain indexers 19 typically motivate H-frames 20 (and carriers) along a pre-determined guide 22. The H-frames 20 are motivated by synchronous contact with the bearing portions of the indexer. The indexer drive motivates the H- frames 20 and carriers 23 along the guide 22 such that they follow the locus of the carriers in the guide to which they contact. The H-frame indexer module carriers can incorporate offsets to allow the H-frames 20 to overlap one another to compact the number of H-frames 20 into a smaller length.

The H-frame indexer module 14 may be provided with a number of indexing mechanisms as illustrated in Figures 41 and 42. According to this embodiment, an indexing mechanism is provided on each lateral side of the indexer module. There is a pair of upper H frame indexers 19A located on each lateral outer side of the indexer module 14 and a pair of lower H frame indexers 19B located towards a midline of the indexing module 14. Each of the H frame indexers will preferably be driven by chain drive 32.

The H-frame indexer module 14 preferably also incorporates a sled loading mechanism including a H-frame sled winch 24, structural supports 25 for the preferred stacked trough modules 15, and H-frame sled tracks 26 which are illustrated in the embodiment of figures 41 and 42. The H-frame sled winch 24 is preferably provided to allow the H frame indexer module 14 to draw the H frame sleds (which typically follow the H frame indexer module on H-frame supply modules 16) into the H frame indexer module 14. The winch 24 is provided in a lower portion of the H frame indexer module 14.

The H frame sled tracks 26 are substantially U-shaped in order to receive at least a portion of the H frame sled or elongate guides therein. The H frame sled tracks are typically movable at least vertically relative to the H frame indexer module 14 in order to position the H frame sled to dispense the H frames 20 in the correct position. The trough or roller modules 15 comprise an indexer and structural frame fitted with guides and carriers. The indexer 19 illustrated in Figures 18 to 22 comprises of synchronously driven chains on a friction reduced track. The indexer drive motivates carriers supporting trough rollers 27 along a pre-determined guide 28 on either side of the module. The trough rollers 27 are motivated synchronously by contact with the bearing portions of the indexer 19 and follow the locus of the guided carrier to which they contact. The trough module carriers can incorporate offsets to allow the trough rollers 27 to overlap one another to compact the number of trough rollers into a smaller length. The trough indexer is motivated by a drive 29 preferably situated at the outbye end of each trough module, again best illustrated in Figures 41 and 42. The trough indexer drive is mounted on a swing arm 71. The indexer drives are mounted on the inbye side structural members of the trough module. The outbye trough module structural beam 30 is mounted as a swing arm rotateable into an open position about a pivot 31. When in the open position, the development conveyor belt may be lowered through the trough module into normal production operating position.

As illustrated in Figure 22, the guide members 28 provided are configured as a substantially U-shaped channel to receive a portion of the trough component therein and with a longitudinal opening in the base of the channel through which a portion of the trough component depends. In this way, each trough component will typically be suspended in the trough module. Therefore, when indexed to release the trough component, due to the suspension of the trough component and the preferred stocked position of the trough module above the H- frame indexing module, the trough module typically moves to the conveyor assembly module through gravity. Elongate guides may be provided to span the distance to the conveyor assembly module if required as illustrated in Figures 23 and 42.

The stringer modules 12 preferably comprise a structural frame 36 mounted with rotary indexers (such as barrel or drum indexers 33 as illustrated in Figures 24 to 27) or linear indexers (such as chain indexers 35 as illustrated in Figures 28 to 31). The indexers may be mounted on pivoting arms 34 to allow adjustment of their position, particularly relative to the conveyor assembly module. Normally, a pair of stringer indexers will be provided, one on each lateral side of the stringer module. Each barrel or drum indexer (of which two are provided, one on each lateral side of the stringer module) each comprise a cylinder 38 compartmentalised to hold a determined number of stringers in cells 39. Each cell 39 contains at least one open slot along its length in which a stringer indexer is able to be longitudinally motivated to push individual stringers out of each compartment or cell. The stringer indexer is comprised of a rack and pinion drive or alternatively a linear actuator fitted with an indexer finger 40. The cylinder 38 is mounted on bearings which enable it to rotate and be indexed, typically using a hydraulic actuator or motor 41. Each compartment cell 39 can be sequentially aligned with the stringer indexer finger 40.

In certain configurations, the stringer module(s) may be fitted with a means of mechanically raising to facilitate installation and retraction through the conveyor.

Where linear indexers are provided, one preferred form is illustrated in Figures 28 to 31. As illustrated therein, pairs of chain indexers 19 are provided on each side of stringers 42 which are held in a linear configuration. Indexed rotation of the chain indexers releases a stringer 42.

A particularly preferred form of conveyor assembly module 13 illustrated in figures 32 to 39 comprises a connecting structure, an H-frame receptacle 43, a pair of stringer receptacles 44 on each lateral side of the module, fixing devices and alignment devices. The H-frame receptacle 43 is comprised of a frame and dampener which stops, holds and controls H-frames in position for stringer attachment.

The stringer receptacles include a dampener into which stringers 42 from the left and right stringer indexers deposit stringers 42. The head 46 of the stringer adjustment arm 45 may be pivoted in one or more axes about hinges 47 so as to rotate, thereby providing clearance for assembled H-frames and stringer conveyor modules to pass by it. The head 46 illustrated is also provided with a slide portion 48 to move the stringer receptacles 44 on each side towards and away from the midline of the module 13. The arm 45 is height adjustable to provide adjustability of the height of the stringer 42. The arm 45 will typically be raised towards the stringer module 12 such that the height which the stringer 42 drops before being caught by the receptacles when dispensed, is minimised.

Stringers 42 from each of the left stringer indexer and the right stringer indexer are received onto the H-frame fixture points of the development conveyor and onto the H-frame situated in the H- frame receptacle of the conveyor assembly module prior to attachment of the stringers to the H-frame.

The H-frame supply modules 16 illustrated in Figure 43 are comprised of structural frames 49 that store sleds 50 of H-frames. The sleds are designed to be consecutively transferred into the H-frame indexing module 14 along tracks 51. The H-frame indexing module 14 is fitted with a sledwinch 24 and the H-frame sleds 50 with rollers or a friction reduced surface. The H-frame sleds 50 are built such that once the H-frames 20 on each sled are loaded onto the H-frame indexer module 14, the sleds 50 dismantle into storage locations. Additional loaded sleds may be installed on the supply modules 16 as the empty H frame sleds are removed.

One of the modules may be fitted with conveyor structure joining devices. Joining devices may be situated over conveyor assembly module preferably to attach the stringers to the H-frames. The joining action may optionally be performed manually. In the static mode of extension, the conveyor belt extending structure is not required. The first major step in the extension of the conveyor is achieved by moving the MBE or the self propelled apparatus into the roadway void and commencing conveyor structure construction.

During static extension, the conveyor belt is preferably stopped and the continuous miner does not cut coal during the extension. During most extensions, the conveyor is extended inbye a distance in the order of 120m, although this distance may vary. The conveyor is typically extended incrementally in small distances with the conveyor support structure assembled spanning this short distance before a further extension and assembly step. Normally, the conveyor belt is not under tension during the extension.

Typically, where a mobile boot end is used, the continuous miner will typically advance ahead of the mobile boot end during operation of the mine with the mobile boot end remaining in place until extension of the conveyor belt is required. At this stage, the mobile boot end will typically be driven inbye to directly behind the continuous miner in incremental steps with the conveyor belt being extended incrementally behind the mobile boot end.

The conveyor assembly station 10 is installed at the inbye end of the development conveyor between the continuous miner 111 and the development conveyor 140 and with the development conveyor belt situated in the conveyor assembly station.

The main steps in the dynamic extension of the conveyor structure are illustrated in Figures 5 to 7 and 8. As illustrated in Figure 5, the conveyor assembly station 10 is attached to a mobile boot end 114 by way of articulated links. A conveyor belt extending structure 116 may be provided between the boot end 114 and the conveyor assembly station 10 which enables the boot end 114 to draw away from the conveyor assembly station 10 as the boot end 114 moves towards the mine face synchronously with the continuous miner 111.

The conveyor assembly station 10 is installed at the inbye end of the development conveyor between the continuous miner 111 and the development conveyor 140 and with the development conveyor belt situated in the conveyor assembly station. The conveyor assembly station 10 is stocked with conveyor components either when the conveyor belt is stopped or more preferably, during mine operation such that downtime for extension of the conveyor is reduced or substantially eliminated.

In the dynamic mode of extension, the first major step in the extension of the conveyor is achieved while the continuous miner 111 moves forward during mine operation as the mine face 112 is removed.

The mobile boot end 114 may optionally also move forward as this occurs and the conveyor belt extending structure 116 extends as illustrated in Figure 6.

Between the conveyor belt extending structure 116 extending in Figure 6 and the step in which the conveyor assembly station 10 is winched forward as illustrated in Figure 7, the conveyor assembly station 10 operates to assemble the conveyor support structure such that when the assembly station 10 is winched forward, the assembly station 10 leaves the whole and a support structure of the development conveyor 140. At times access to the coal face equipment is required, the apparatus or modules may be side-shifted laterally to a position offset to its longitudinal centreline of operation. The apparatus or modules may be provided with at least one vertical lift device 52 and at least one lateral shift device as illustrated in Figures 44 and 45. These devices may be used to move the apparatus or modules or to adjust the position of the apparatus or modules to align with the remainder of the development conveyor or modules.

In Figure 44, a lifting step is illustrated wherein the modules are lifted from the ground which is then followed by a lateral shift step illustrating in Figure 45.

The listing and shifting mechanisms may be provided externally of the modules as illustrated or alternatively, may be provided within the substantially vertical upright legs of the modules. Where provided internally, an additional lateral shifting mechanism may be provided to accomplish the lateral shift. In Figures 46 to 69, the various steps by which the position of the stringers and H-frames are aligned, is illustrated. The illustrated mechanism and steps is an optional extra for the conveyor assembly module discussed above. The gantry and monorails illustrated may not be the preferred structures in practice and are included for illustrative purposes only. In Figures 46 to 48, the mechanical equipment of the assembly frame is retracted in step 1.1. Then in step 1.2, the conveyor assembly station is winched toward the mobile boot end, into approximate position.

In Figures 49 to 51, step 2.1 shows the conveyor assembly station frame stopped with the H-frame hoist position refined. According to step 2.2, the H- Frame clamps are moved upwardly and then the H-Frame clamps are moved into a neutral position (forward/back/left/right into H-Frame accepting location) in step 2.3.

Finally, in step 2.4 the H-Frame clamps jaws are opened ready to receive a H-Frame from the indexer.

In Figures 52 to 54, the H-Frame is delivered to clamps from the indexer in step 3.1 and the H-Frame is clamped approximately 75 mm off the floor in step 3.2.

In Figures 55 to 57, according to step 4.1, the stringer support cylinders are moved in towards the mid-line of the assembly module and the stringer support cylinders are moved up in Step 4.2, to limit the stringer drop height, when released from the stringer indexer. In step 4.3, the two stringer pins are withdrawn from the new H-Frame. In the prototype, the pins may be removed manually.

As illustrated in Figures 58 to 60, step 5.1 shows the stringer cassette indexed to release a stringer with the stringer supported by stringer cradles once released. In step 5.2, the stringer supports are lowered into clamped H-Frame which is still approximately 75 mm off the ground. Then the two pins are inserted into the assembled module in step 5.3. This may be performed manually for the prototype.

As illustrated in Figure 61 to 63, the stringer support cylinders are manipulated in/out to align with the existing outbye H-Frame in step 6.1. Then the H-

Frame clamps are manipulated in/out to square the stringers in step 6.2 before the H-

Frame clamps are side shifted for outbye alignment in step 6.3. The outbye conveyor end pins are then removed in step 6.4.

As illustrated in Figure 64 to 66, the H-Frame clamps and stringer support cylinders are lowered into outbye V-guides and the H-frame is lowered onto ground in step 7.1. The outbye end conveyor pins are then inserted in step 7.2.

Finally as illustrated in Figure 67 to 69, the H-Frame clamps jaws are opened (step 8.1) and the H-Frame hoist is lowered down (step 8.2).

Steps 1 to 7 are repeated as required to assemble the conveyor support. A particularly preferred form of the trough module carrier is illustrated in Figures 70 and 71. Although the illustration deals with the trough module carrier, the illustrated form can be used in a variety of different applications in the present invention including for the H frames, trough rollers and stringers.

The illustrated trough carrier arrangement includes a pair of trough roller attachments 53 each having an opening 54 to provide for the attachment of the trough rollers (not shown) to the attachment 53. The trough roller attachments 53 are separated by drive pins 55 which are driven using the chain indexer 56. The trough roller attachments 53 are moved as the chain indexer 56 is rotated through their abutment with the drive pins 54 which forces the trough roller attachments 53 along a carrier guide 57.

As illustrated in Figure 71, the trough roller attachments 53 are provided at an upper portion of the carrier 58 which is itself driven along the carrier guide 57. The drive pins 54 are mounted on a chain attachment 59 which is connected to the chain 60. The chain 60 runs on a chain guide 61 which is driven by a shaft 62 through a linking pinion 63. The entire assembly is mounted on the support structure 64 of the particular module to which is attached. The chain indexer is a rotary form and has a drive side (upper side) and a return side (lower side).

It is anticipated that the particular form of carrier can be easily adapted to carry different conveyor components. The chain indexer with carrier may therefore form a further form of the present invention.

In the present specification and claims (if any), the word "comprising" and its derivatives including "comprises" and "comprise" include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.