FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The 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 mining. More generally, the invention may be used in material transfer operations which are neither mining nor tunneling operations.

BACKGROUND

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 (so-called "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 one development roadway and a number of intersecting roadways (all designated by reference numeral 1), and it also depicts the pillars 3 between the roadways 1 , as is typical in an underground 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 11 is depicted at one end of the roadway 1 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 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 11 depicted in Figure 1 unloads coal onto a mobile boot 14 end which is able to follow the continuous miner 11 in close proximity as the continuous miner 11 advances along the development roadway 1.

In longwall mining, the roof of the underground mine is allowed to collapse in a planned sequence. A mechanical miner called a longwall machine is used to mine the coal in longwall coal mines. Figures 2 and 3 depict an underground longwall coal mine. A longwall machine is also represented. The longwall machine has large chocks or shields 22 that support the roof of the mine and protect the miners during mining. A rotating part of the longwall machine called a shearer 24 cuts coal from the coal face 12 as it traverses the coal face. As more of the coal is cut, the machine moves forward or backwards relative to an adjacent roadway 1 , depending upon the orientation of the longwall machine relative to the roadway. The orientation of the longwall machine depicted in Figures 2 and 3 is such that the machine moves backwards ^' or forwards relative to the adjacent roadway 1. The roof behind the machine falls in a planned order as the machine moves.

The coal which is cut by the shearer 24 drops onto a conveyor 23 of the longwall machine and is transferred by the conveyor 23 to a beam stage loader (BSL) arrangement 25. The coal is transferred by the beam stage loader onto a fixed or mobile boot end 26 which is coupled to a belt conveyor 29 which extends along the roadway. The belt conveyor 29 in turn hauls the coal along the roadway 1 to another location. The mobile boot end 26 depicted in Figure 2 is able to follow the longwall machine in close proximity as the machine retreats or advances along a roadway 1.

Belt conveyors such as the ones depicted in Figure 1 and 2, are extended or retracted along the mined roadway at periodic intervals. Such conveyors typically include a loop take-up (LTU) 32, a jib 30 and a drive head 31. The loop take-up 32 extends and retracts the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor as the conveyor is respectively extended and retracted along the roadway 1. The jib 30, 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 31 , which is located between the jib and the loop take-up, circulates the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor.

In room and pillar mining, and also in longwall mining, as the fixed or mobile boot end moves along the roadway, the belt conveyor must be lengthened or shortened as appropriate. Previously, this gave rise to one problem in particular, namely that mining operations had to cease when the conveyor needed to be extended or retracted. That is, belt conveyors previously did not allow for continuous mining because each time the conveyor needed to be extended or retracted, the conveyor had to be shutdown for a period of time in order to allow the length of the conveyor to be modified.

Our earlier International Patent Application No PCT/AU2008/001826 (published as International Publication No WO 2009/073923), the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference (some parts are also quoted herein explicitly), discloses an extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt which overcomes, or at least ameliorates, this problem. Broadly, the apparatus in that earlier application has an extendable frame. Mounted above the frame are a number of carry-side idlers which support the carry-side of the conveyor belt and hence the material being transported thereon. The configuration is such that extending or retracting the frame causes or allows the spacing between the respective idlers to increase or reduce (respectively), and thus the span of the belt (or the section of the belt) supported by the apparatus can be lengthened or shortened (respectively). With such a configuration, it is also possible to extend and retract the apparatus while the belt continues to circulate relative to the apparatus.

It is to be clearly understood that mere reference herein to previous or existing products, practices or other information, or to any associated problems or issues, does not constitute an acknowledgement or admission that any of those things, individually or in any combination, are admissible prior art or formed part of the common general knowledge of those skilled in the field.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to generally improve upon aspects of the apparatus in our earlier International Patent Application No PCT/AU2008/001826, or to at least provide another form of extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt. Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following explanations, including those which are to be taken in connection with the accompanying Figures wherein, by way of illustration and example, one or more embodiments and features of the invention are explained. In one form, the present invention resides broadly in an extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt, the belt having an upper carry- side and a lower return-side,

the apparatus having an extendable frame,

the extendable frame having a first side and a second side, each side having a plurality of segments at least one of which can extend relative to the adjacent segment(s),

the extendable frame also having a plurality of idlers wherein each idler extends between a segment on the first side and a corresponding segment on the second side, and wherein at least one of the idlers is able to slide, relative to the segments between which it extends, in a direction parallel to said segments,

each idler also being movable between a closed position in which the idler is supported by both of the segments between which it extends, and an open position in which the idler is separated relative to at least one of the segments.

Benefits of this extendable support apparatus configuration include the following. Not only does the extendable support apparatus allow the conveyor belt to continue hauling material even while the extendable support apparatus is being extended or retracted, it is also possible to install it without the need to disconnect, deconstruct, disassemble, break, or otherwise separate the continuous belt. In other words, the extendable support apparatus can be installed while the belt remains intact and continuous, and in fact, it is even possible to install the extendable support apparatus while the belt is in motion (circulating). Those skilled in the art will recognise that there may be significant advantages associated with the ability to install the apparatus without having to break or disconnect the continuous belt. These include significantly reduced downtimes required to install the apparatus on the belt.

The way in which the extendable support apparatus can be installed on the belt without breaking or disconnecting the belt is as follows. When the idlers are in the open position, the apparatus can be moved towards or otherwise relative to the belt such that the idlers (which are then in the open · position) insert or become positioned between the carry-side and the return-side of the belt. The idlers can then be moved into the closed position whereupon the carry-side of the belt becomes supported by the idlers.

The extendable support apparatus may also be provided with means such as additional idlers, rollers or the like for supporting the return-side of the belt. Where such means are provided, the return-side of the belt may become supported on or by said means when the idlers (i.e. the idlers which function to support the carry-side of the belt) are moved into the closed position so as to do so. The means for supporting the return-side of the belt may comprise, for example, one or more rollers, skid bars or the like. Preferably there may be multiple such rollers or skid bars etc, and the relative spacing between them may be increased when the apparatus is extended.

The extendable support apparatus has an extendable frame, and the frame has a first side and a second side. What is meant by the first and second sides is that, when the apparatus is viewed in the orientation looking along it in the direction which the belt travels along it, the first side may be the left-hand side of the apparatus and the second side may be the right-hand side, or vice versa. Hence, the first and second sides are the sides of the apparatus which are generally parallel to the belt, or parallel to the direction in which the belt travels on the apparatus.

On both sides there are a plurality of segments at least one of which can extend relative to the adjacent segment(s). This means that, at least in most embodiments, there will be at least one segment on each side which is able to extend relative to the adjacent segment(s) on that side. The number of segments on each side is not critical (provided of course that there are at least two on each side so that one can extend relative to the other). It is envisaged that the number of segments on each side will typically be between 2 and 10, and most often 5 or 6. However, the invention could of course operate with a greater or lesser number of segments than this on each side.

Preferably, the number of segments on each side should be the same such that for each segment on one side there is a corresponding segment on the other side. Thus, when the two sides of the apparatus are considered together, the apparatus may be considered to have a first pair of segments, and a second pair of segments, and possibly also further pairs depending on the number of segments on each side. Suitably, each such pair may be extendable together relative to other/adjacent pair(s). That is, the second pair may be extendable relative to the first pair, and if there is a third pair then that third pair may be extendable relative to the second pair, etc. Thus, the respective pairs may be extendable sequentially.

The respective segments on each side could take a range of possible configurations. For instance, it is envisaged that, most often, each segment may comprise a substantially straight elongate member, and the respective segments (on each side) may be positioned adjacent each other side-by-side so that they can slide in their lengthwise direction, each relative to the one(s) beside it, sequentially. There may also be additional segments, in addition to those on each side of the extendable frame. For example, there could be one or more sets of additional segments positioned between the segments on the first side of the frame and the segments on the second side of the frame.

It is also possible that the invention could operate with alternative segment configurations. For instance, on each side, the respective segments may be telescopic with respect to each other. That is, they could be configured as elongate sections housed one inside the next such that they can extend in a telescopic manner. In such cases, on each side, the telescopic segments may form a telescopic rail, and there may be such a telescopic rail on both sides (and possibly one or more additional such telescopic rails extending between the ones on each side).

Another possibility is that the extendable frame of the apparatus may comprise a single extendable "boom" or the like. The boom could be telescopic. That is, it could be made up of sections housed one inside the next such that they can extend telescopically. Possibly, those telescopic sections could be quite wide (wider than the conveyor belt for instance) such that a portion of each such section is on, or forms part of, the first side of the extendable frame while a portion of each such section is also on, or also forms part of, the second side of the extendable frame. In such instances, the portion of a section on one side may form a segment of the frame on that side, and a portion of a section on the other side may form a segment on the other side. Hence, even in these possible embodiments where the extendable frame comprises a single telescopically extendable boom, it may still be said that each side has a plurality of segments at least one of which can extend relative to the adjacent segment(s).

Other alternative segment configurations may also be possible, and all such configurations are deemed to fall within the ambit of the present invention.

The invention will be described hereafter with reference to embodiments where the respective segments on each side are elongate members positioned adjacent each other side-by-side so that they can slide in their lengthwise direction, each relative to the one(s) beside it, sequentially. However, this is for convenience only and no limitation whatsoever is to be implied from this.

Where the respective segments on each side comprise elongate members positioned adjacent each other side-by-side, the various segments may be supported above the ground by leg members. Each segment may have one or more leg members attached to it, and preferably one or more of the leg members attached to each segment may move with the segment so that said leg(s) function to support the segment above the ground irrespective of whether, or the extent to which, the said segment is extended or retracted relative to other segment(s). For the leg member(s) on each segment which move with the segment, that/those leg member(s) may be fixedly attached to the segment. However, each segment may alternatively, or additionally, have one or more leg members which is/are not fixedly attached thereto. Such a leg members could be, for example, slidable relative to the respective segments. Therefore, there may be some embodiments where each segment has one or more leg members fixedly attached thereto, and also one or more additional leg members which can move or slide relative to the segments. Providing multiple leg members per segment may enable the length of the segment to be increased, thereby increasing the possible span of the conveyor belt supportable thereon.

The leg members may be provided with height-adjustment means so that the length of the legs (and hence the height of the segments above the ground) can be adjusted. The height-adjustment means may enable the length of multiple legs to be adjusted together (i.e. by the same amount, effectively "as one"). Alternatively, the height-adjustment means may allow the length of a particular leg to be adjusted individually or independently of other legs. The height-adjustment means may enable the segments of the extendable frame to be supported at the appropriate height above the ground to optimally support the conveyor belt. The height- adjustment means may also make it possible to ensure that the apparatus is level and/or aligned to a grade, from side to side and/or along its length. It may also allow the apparatus to be installed or leveled etc on uneven ground. A range of electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically powered means may be used for the height-adjustment means. Other mechanical arrangements might also be used. For example, individual legs may be extensible using a ratchet-type mechanism.

In some embodiments, the height-adjustment means maybe self-setting. That is, the height-adjustment means may operate, or be operable, such that the length of the leg(s) is set without requiring manual adjustment or other user intervention. For example, in relation to legs which are on segments which extend, in embodiments where those legs are each individually extensible using a ratchet mechanism, the segment may initially extend out with the leg un-extended, and then as soon as the leg becomes positioned above the patch of ground upon which it is to rest, the extensible part of the leg may extend downward under its own weight until it reaches the ground and the ratchet mechanism may then secure the extended leg at that amount of extension and prevent it from collapsing.

It is also possible that the various segments may be supported above the ground by being suspended from a roof, where possible. For instance, in underground mining, the segments may hang from or may otherwise be supported by the roof of the development roadway. The various segments may be supported above the ground by being suspended relative to the roof, again, by leg members. As above, the leg members may be fixedly attached to the segments, or slidable relative thereto, or some combination of both. And again, the leg members may be provided with height-adjustment means so that the length of the legs (and hence the height at which the segments are suspended above the ground) can be adjusted for leveling purposes etc.

The extendable frame in the present invention has a plurality of idlers. For the avoidance of doubt, these are the idlers which function to support the carry-side of the belt when they are moved into the closed position to do so. Suitably, each of these idlers may comprise an idler assembly. The idler assembly may include an idler frame, and one or more idler rollers mounted to the idler frame. The idler rollers may be adapted to spin so that when the conveyor belt is supported by the idler assemblies it can move along the apparatus with little or no resistance from the idler assemblies.

Each of the idler assemblies in the extendable support apparatus extends between a segment on the first side of the apparatus' frame and a corresponding segment on the second side of the apparatus' frame. Thus, each idler assembly extends between a pair of the segments (there being two or more such pairs). There may be one, or more than one, idler assembly extending between a pair of segments. In certain embodiments, there may be two idler assemblies extending between each of the segment pairs, although other numbers are also possible.

At least one of the idlers should be able to slide, relative to the segments between which it extends, in a direction parallel to said segments. It is envisaged that, in many embodiments, there may be multiple idlers which are able to slide relative to their respective segments in this way. However, this is not to say that all of the idlers must necessarily be able to slide relative to their segments. Indeed, for some of the segment pairs, the position of the one or more idler assemblies which extend between the two segments may be fixed, relative to the segments, in the direction of the apparatus' extension axis (that is to say, the one or more idler assemblies may not be able to move back and forth along the segments). Nevertheless, for other segment pairs, the one or more idler assemblies which extend between the two segments may be able to move back and forth, relative to the segments, in the direction of the apparatus' extension axis. Where this is the case, the ability of these idler assemblies to move back and forth along their relevant segments may enable those idler assemblies to become spaced apart when the apparatus is extended, and it may also enable them to be brought closely together when the apparatus is retracted. This, in particular, may enable the overall length of the apparatus, when it is in the retracted configuration, to be reduced, thus making the retracted apparatus more compact. This is useful not only because it makes the apparatus more convenient to transport, or to store when it is not in use, but it also means that a greater number of the apparatuses can be installed one after the other in sequence on a given length of conveyor belt. The greater the number of apparatuses that can be installed on a given length of conveyor belt, the greater the extent that the conveyor belt can be lengthened without the need to insert additional apparatuses to accommodate further lengthening.

The idler assemblies which are able to move relative to their respective segments may be connected by connecting links. Furthermore, these idler assemblies may be connected by serially connecting links, that is, each to the next in series. This may help to enable their respective segment pairs to extend out in a sequential manner. It may also help the idler assemblies on those respective segment pairs to become spaced out in a sequential manner as the segment pairs progressively extend in sequence.

The extendable support apparatus may further include joining means at one or both ends. The joining means at one end may enable the extendable support apparatus to connect to another extendable support apparatus which is ahead of it in the conveyor belt's direction of travel. Likewise, the joining means at the other end may enable the extendable support apparatus to be connected to another extendable support apparatus behind it in the conveyor belt's direction of travel. The joining means may also enable the extendable support apparatus to be connected to, for example, a mobile boot end or a variety of other forms of equipment or apparatus. In embodiments where the extendable support apparatus is connected to a mobile boot end (or where there are multiple such apparatuses connected in series and one of the apparatuses further ahead is connected to a mobile weekend), the movement of the mobile boot end (which generally follows the movement of a continuous mining machine) may be what causes the apparatus(es) to extend. On the other hand, in other embodiments, the extendable support apparatus may be provided with length-adjusting means operable to extend and/or retract the apparatus (or at least assist in doing so). The length-adjusting means could, for example, include towing ropes, winches and ropes, block and tackle arrangements, extendable hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, or elongate structural frames, etc.

Where length-adjusting means are provided, a controller may preferably be provided for controlling it. The controller may be a manual controller, or it may be an automated controller (e.g. a computer operated or programmable logic controller). Where an automated controller is used, it may be able to control the length-adjusting means to extend or contract the apparatus at a controlled velocity or in some predetermined fashion. Also, such a controller may be operable from a remote location (or at least remote from the extendable support apparatus itself). The controller may also be operable to control the height-adjustment means described above.

The extendable support apparatus may further include shifting means operable to shift the apparatus laterally (i.e. move it in a direction transverse to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt). This may be used, for instance, to align the extendable support apparatus as necessary.

Each of the idlers (or each of the idler assemblies) in the extendable support apparatus is movable between a closed position in which the said idler is supported by both of the segments between which it extends, and an open position in which the idler (or idler assembly) is separated relative to at least one of those segments, in certain embodiments, each idler assembly may be configured to pivot about a point which is at or near the point where the idler assembly attaches to the segment on one side, and the pivoting may cause the other side of the idler assembly to lift or rise relative to the corresponding segment on the other side of the apparatus. However, the invention is by no means limited to this particular configuration, and indeed it is possible that the idler assemblies could move in a range of other ways so as to separate relative to at least one of the segments. By way of another possible example, an alternative configuration might enable the idler assemblies to lift or rise relative to the segments on both sides such that the idler assemblies effectively lift off or rise above both segments. A range of other configurations are also possible.

The idler assemblies may be movable between the respective open and closed positions manually, or alternatively some form of moving means may be provided to assist in moving them from the closed to the open position and/or from the open position to the closed position. In embodiments where each idler assembly is configured to pivot about a point near where the idler assembly attaches to the segment on one side and the pivoting causes the other side of the idler assembly to lift or rise relative to the corresponding segment on the other side, the moving means may comprise lifting means. The moving means or lifting means may take any suitable form or configuration. For example, any of the following (or even a combination thereof) could be employed, namely winches and ropes, block and tackle arrangements, extendable hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, chain hoist or cranes, etc. It should also be noted that, where moving or lifting means are provided, the moving or lifting means could be incorporated as part of each extendable support apparatus. However, it is also possible that the moving means could be provided separately from, or could be attachable and detachable relative to, each extendable support apparatus. In this latter case, the moving or lifting means could, for example, be separate from the extendable support apparatus and could be applied to one or more extendable support apparatuses at a given time to lift the idlers and thereby enable that/those apparatuses to be installed on a section of conveyor belt. The moving or lifting means could then be removed from the/those apparatuses and could then subsequently be used in the installation of one or more other extendable support apparatuses.

The apparatus may further include means for securing or maintaining the idlers (or idler assemblies) in the closed position to prevent them from moving into the open position inadvertently or while the conveyor belt is moving or being supported thereon. This securing means may take any suitable form for performing this function.

In another form, the present invention resides broadly in a continuous haulage apparatus comprising at least one extendable support apparatus of the kind described above, an endless conveyor belt supported by each support apparatus, a drive for circulating the conveyor belt relative to each support apparatus, and a loop take-up for extending and retracting the conveyor belt in response to the at least one support apparatus being respectively extended and retracted. Such a continuous haulage apparatus is able to continuously haul material on the conveyor belt even while the extendable support apparatus(es) is/are being extended or retracted.

The continuous haulage apparatus may include any number of extendable support apparatuses. Typically, the continuous haulage apparatus may include a plurality of the extendable support apparatuses arranged in series. The number of extendable support apparatus may be varied to suit the requirements of the application (e.g. underground mine haulage) in which it is being employed.

The continuous haulage apparatus will typically also include a belt conveyor which includes the conveyor belt. The belt conveyor will usually be an extendable belt conveyor which is able to be extended and retracted. If the belt conveyor is an extendable belt conveyor, the continuous haulage apparatus may also include a belt structure building, installation and extension station, a belt structure retraction station, or a conveyor assembly station for extending or retracting the belt conveyor. One end of the extendable support apparatus (or one end of one of the extendable support apparatuses) maybe is secured to the station.

The continuous haulage apparatus may also include a fixed boot end or a mobile boot end located adjacent to the extendable support apparatus. If the continuous haulage apparatus includes a mobile boot end, the mobile boot end may draw the extendable support apparatus behind it as the mobile boot end moves for example towards a coal face synchronously with a continuous miner or the like.

In yet another form, the present invention resides broadly in a mining apparatus comprising a mining machine for mining material, and the continuous haulage apparatus described above for hauling the mined material.

Material which is mined by the mining machine is able to be continuously hauled by the continuous haulage apparatus even while the extendable support apparatus of the continuous haulage apparatus is being extended or retracted.

The mining machine may for example be a continuous miner or a longwall machine.

The extendable support apparatus described above is particularly suitable for providing not only an improved method of (or means for) conveying coal between a continuous miner or a longwall machine that cuts coal at a coal face and a conveyor which conveys coal out of a roadway, but also an improved method (or means) for installing the apparatus on the belt of the conveyor.

The extendable support apparatus is simple, cost effective, reliable, and facilitates continual coal production by removing the need to stop development production to build, install and extend or retract the conveyor structure, and it also allows for much faster and easier installation of the apparatus.

In a further form, the present invention resides broadly in a support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt, the belt having an upper carry-side and a lower return-side,

the apparatus having a frame with a first side and a second side,

the frame also having a plurality of idlers

wherein each idler extends between a portion of the frame on the first side and a portion of the frame on the second side, and each idler is movable between a closed position in which the idler is supported by both of the frame portions between which it extends, and an open position in which the idler is separated relative to at least one of the portions.

Similar to other forms of the invention, one of the benefits of the support apparatus configuration in the form of the invention discussed immediately above is that it is possible to install it without the need to disconnect, deconstruct, disassemble, break, or otherwise separate the continuous belt.

The way in which the support apparatus can be installed on the belt without breaking or disconnecting the belt is as follows. When the idlers are in the open position, the apparatus can be moved towards or otherwise relative to the belt such that the idlers (which are then in the open position) insert or become positioned between the carry-side and the return-side of the belt. The idlers can then be moved into the closed position whereupon the carry-side of the belt becomes supported by the idlers.

As discussed for other forms of the invention, the support apparatus in this form of the invention may also be provided with means such as additional idlers, rollers or the like for supporting the return-side of the belt. Where such means are provided, the return-side of the belt may become supported on or by said means when the idlers (i.e. the idlers which function to support the carry-side of the belt) are moved into the closed position so as to do so. The means for supporting the return- side of the belt may comprise, for example, one or more rollers, skid bars or the like.

The frame of the support apparatus in this form of the invention may have one or more leg members. The leg members may be provided with height- adjustment means so that the length of the legs (and hence the height of the frame above the ground) can be adjusted, and also so that the frame may be leveled. The same kinds of height-adjustment means as discussed above may be used.

The frame of the support apparatus in this form of the invention has a plurality of idlers which function to support the carry-side of the belt when they are moved into the closed position to do so. Suitably, each of these idlers may comprise an idler assembly. The idler assembly may include an idler frame, and one or more idler rollers mounted to the idler frame. The idler rollers may be adapted to spin so that when the conveyor belt is supported by the idler assemblies it can move along the apparatus with little or no resistance from the idler assemblies.

Each of the idler assemblies in the support apparatus extends between a portion of the frame on the first side of the apparatus and a portion of the frame on the second side of the apparatus.

The support apparatus may further include shifting means operable to shift the apparatus laterally (i.e. move it in a direction transverse to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt).

Each of the idlers (or each of the idler assemblies) in the support apparatus is movable between a closed position in which the said idler is supported by both of the frame portions between which it extends, and an open position in which the idler (or idler assembly) is separated relative to at least one of those frame portions. In certain embodiments, each idler assembly may be configured to pivot about a point which is at or near the point where the idler assembly attaches to the frame portion on one side, and the pivoting may cause the other side of the idler assembly to lift or rise relative to the frame portion on the other side of the apparatus. However, the invention is by no means limited to this particular configuration, and indeed it is possible that the idler assemblies could move in a range of other ways so as to separate relative to at least one of the frame portions. By way of another possible example, an alternative configuration might enable the idler assemblies to lift or rise relative to the frame portions on both sides such that the idler assemblies effectively lift off or rise above the frame. A range of other configurations are also possible.

The idler assemblies may be movable between the respective open and closed positions manually, or alternatively some form of moving means may be provided to assist in moving them from the closed to the open position and/or from the open position to the closed position. The moving means, and the variations thereof, discussed in relation to other forms of the invention may equally be applied to this form of the invention.

The apparatus may further include means for securing or maintaining the 14

same kinds of height-adjustment means as discussed above may be used.

The frame of the support apparatus in this form of the invention has a plurality of idlers which function to support the carry-side of the belt when they are moved into the closed position to do so. Suitably, each of these idlers may comprise an idler assembly. The idler assembly may include an idler frame, and one or more idler rollers mounted to the idler frame. The idler rollers may be adapted to spin so that when the conveyor belt is supported by the idler assemblies it can move along the apparatus with little or no resistance from the idler assemblies.

Each of the idler assemblies in the support apparatus extends between a portion of the frame on the first side of the apparatus and a portion of the frame on the second side of the apparatus.

The support apparatus may further include shifting means operable to shift the apparatus laterally (i.e. move it in a direction transverse to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt).

Each of the idlers (or each of the idler assemblies) in the support apparatus is movable between a closed position in which the said idler is supported by both of the frame portions between which it extends, and an open position in which the idler (or idler assembly) is separated relative to at least one of those frame portions. In certain embodiments, each idler assembly may be configured to pivot about a point which is at or near the point where the idler assembly attaches to the frame portion on one side, and the pivoting may cause the other side of the idler assembly to lift or rise relative to the frame portion on the other side of the apparatus. However, the invention is by no means limited to this particular configuration, and indeed it is possible that the idler assemblies could move in a range of other ways so as to separate relative to at least one of the frame portions. By way of another possible example, an alternative configuration might enable the idler assemblies to lift or rise relative to the frame portions on both sides such that the idler assemblies effectively lift off or rise above the frame. A range of other configurations are also possible.

The idler assemblies may be movable between the respective open and closed positions manually, or alternatively some form of moving means may be provided to assist in moving them from the closed to the open position and/or from the open position to the closed position. The moving means, and the variations thereof, discussed in relation to other forms of the invention may equally be applied to this form of the invention.

The apparatus may further include means for securing or maintaining the 15

idlers (or idler assemblies) in the closed position to prevent them from moving into the open position inadvertently or while the conveyor belt is moving or being supported thereon. This securing means may take any suitable form for performing this function.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES 1-46

Figures 1-46 below are essentially the same as the like numbered Figures in our earlier International Patent Application No PCT/AU2008/001826 (published as International Publication No WO 2009/073923). In Figures 1-46:

Figure 1 is a plan view of a development roadway of an underground room and pillar coal mine with a mining apparatus extending along the roadway.

Figure 2 is a plan view of an underground longwall coal mine and a longwall mining apparatus.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional end elevation of the mining apparatus depicted in Figure 2 (the cross section is taken along the line 3 - 3 in Figure 2).

Figure 4 is a plan view of a development roadway of an underground room and pillar coal mine (it could also be interpreted as a view of a longwall gate road). In Figure 4, a mining apparatus is shown extending along the roadway, and the mining apparatus includes an extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt.

Figure 5 is a side elevation of a portion of a continuous haulage apparatus. Like the mining apparatus in Figure 4, the continuous haulage apparatus in Figure 5 includes an extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt.

Figure 6 is a plan view of an extendable support apparatus.

Figure 7 is a side elevation of the extendable support apparatus depicted in Figure 6.

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional end elevation of one of the telescopic rails of the extendable support apparatus in Figures 6 and 7.

Figure 9 is a front elevation of an idler support frame of the extendable support apparatus in Figures 6 and 7.

Figure 10 is a side elevation of an articulated joint which joins together two extendable support apparatuses, for example, to enable the assembly of the continuous haulage apparatus depicted in Figure 5.

Figure 11 is a side elevation of a conveyor belt lifter apparatus, which is part 16

of the continuous haulage apparatus depicted in Figure 5.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of another possible or alternative form of extendable support apparatus. In Figure 12, the apparatus is fully extended.

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 12 when the apparatus is fully retracted.

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a portion of a development roadway of an underground room and pillar coal mine. An end portion of a mining apparatus is also shown.

Figure 15 depicts the development roadway and the mining and hauling apparatus in Figure 14 after the apparatus has been used to develop the roadway further.

Figure 16 depicts the development roadway and the mining apparatus illustrated in Figure 15 after part of the apparatus has been shifted sideways in the development roadway.

Figure 17 depicts a front-end loader being driven along the development roadway beside the mining apparatus (i.e. the front-end loader is being driven in the space beside the mining apparatus which is provided by shifting the mining apparatus as illustrated in Figure 16).

Figure 18 depicts the mining apparatus Illustrated in Figures 14-17 after the part of the apparatus which was shifted sideways in Figure 16 has been shifted back to its original lateral position.

Figure 19 depicts the development roadway and the mining apparatus illustrated in Figures 14-18 after the apparatus has been used to develop the roadway even further.

Figure 20 depicts the development roadway and the mining apparatus illustrated in Figure 19 after the belt conveyor of the apparatus has been extended further along the roadway and after the extendable support apparatuses have been retracted.

Figure 21 is a perspective view of another form of extendable support apparatus. In Figure 21 , the apparatus is fully extended.

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 21 when the apparatus is fully retracted.

Figure 23 is a side elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure

21.

Figure 24 is a plan view of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 22. 17

Figure 25 is a side elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure

24.

Figure 26 is a left-hand end elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 25.

Figure 27 is an enlarged view of a portion of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 26.

Figure 28 is a right-hand end elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 25.

Figure 29 is an inverted plan view (i.e. an underside view) of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 25.

Figure 30 is a perspective view of yet another form of extendable support apparatus. In Figure 30, the apparatus is fully extended.

Figure 31 is a perspective view of the extendable support apparatus depicted in Figure 30 when the apparatus is fully retracted.

Figure 32 is a side elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure

30.

Figure 33 is a cross-sectional end elevation of the extendable support apparatus depicted in Figure 32 (the cross section is taken along the line 33 - 33 in Figure 32).

Figure 34 is a plan view of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 31.

Figure 35 is a side elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure

34.

Figure 36 is a left-hand end elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 35.

Figure 37 is an enlarged view of a portion of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 36.

Figure 38 is a right-hand end elevation of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 35.

Figure 39 is an inverted plan view (i.e. an underside view) of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 35.

Figure 40 is an enlarged view similar to Figure 33 which depicts the extendable support apparatus before it is raised and shifted sideways.

Figure 41 depicts the extendable support apparatus, similar to Figure 40, but after the apparatus has been raised.

Figure 42 shows the extendable support apparatus illustrated in Figure 41 18

after being shifted sideways.

Figure 43 depicts the extendable support apparatus illustrated in Figure 42 after being lowered.

Figure 44 depicts the extendable support apparatus illustrated in Figure 43 after being shifted sideways back to its original position (i.e. as per Figure 40).

Figure 45 is a plan view of an underground longwall coal mine and a longwall mining apparatus. In Figure 45, a mining apparatus is shown extending along the roadway, and the mining apparatus includes an extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt.

Figure 46 is a cross-sectional end elevation of the mining apparatus depicted in Figure 45 (the cross section is taken along the line 46 - 46 in Figure 45).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES 47-69

Figures 47-69 illustrate aspects and features of certain possible embodiments of the present invention. In Figures 47-69:

Figure 47 is a perspective view of an extendable support apparatus when the apparatus is fully extended.

Figure 48 is a perspective view of the extendable support apparatus in Figure 47, but when the apparatus is full retracted.

Figure 49 is a plan view of the extended apparatus in Figure 47.

Figure 50 is a cross-sectional side elevation of the extended apparatus in Figure 49 (the cross section is taken along the line 50-50 in Figure 49).

Figure 51 is a plan view of the retracted apparatus in Figure 48.

Figure 52 is a side-on view of the retracted apparatus in Figure 51.

Figure 53 is an end-on view of the retracted apparatus in Figure 52.

Figure 54 is similar to Figure 53 in that it is also an end-on view of the retracted apparatus. However, in Figure 54, the idler assemblies are shown (in phantom) in the pivoted or "opened" orientation which allows the apparatus to be installed on or relative to the belt of a belt conveyor.

Figure 55 is a plan view of the retracted apparatus, similar to Figure 51 , except that in Figure 55 the apparatus is shown with slightly greater magnification in order to illustrate certain details.

Figure 56 is a cross-sectional end-on elevation of the apparatus in Figure 55 (the cross-section is taken along the line 56-56 in Figure 55).

Figure 57 is a magnification of certain details in Figure 56. 19

Figure 58 is a magnification of certain details in Figure 55.

Figure 59 is a side-on view of the retracted apparatus, similar to Figure 52, except that in Figure 59 the apparatus is shown with slightly greater magnification in order to illustrate certain details.

Figure 60 is a magnification of certain details in Figure 59.

Figures 61 is an end-on view of another possible form of extendable support apparatus. In Figure 61 , the carry idler assemblies and the related pivoting structures are shown in the pivoted or "open" orientation which allows the apparatus to be installed on or relative to the belt of the belt conveyor.

Figure 62 is similar to Figures 61 in that it is also an end-on view of the same extendable support apparatus. However, in Figures 62, the carry idler assemblies and the related pivoting structures are shown in the "closed" orientation in which the apparatus is operable to support the circulating belt of the belt conveyor.

Figures 63 is a plan view of the extendable support apparatus in Figures 61 and 62.

Figures 64 is a plan view of the extendable support apparatus, similar to Figure 63, except that in Figure 64 the apparatus is shown with greater magnification.

Figures 65 is a side-on view of the extendable support apparatus in Figures 64. ^'

Figures 66 and 67 illustrate respective "before" and "after" views of an extendable support apparatus being installed on the belt of the belt conveyor. In Figures 66 and 67, the extendable apparatus is the only such apparatus installed on the belt.

Figures 68 and 69 are like Figures 66 and 67 in that they also illustrate respective "before" and "after" views of an extendable support apparatus being installed on the belt of the belt conveyor. However, unlike Figures 66 and 67, in Figures 68 and 69 the extendable support apparatus which is being installed on the belt is the second such apparatus to be installed on the belt.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES 1-46

As mentioned above, Figures 1-46 below are essentially the same as the like numbered Figures in our earlier International Patent Application No PCT/AU2008/001826 (published as International Publication No WO 2009/073923). The explanations provided in that earlier application with reference to those Figures 20

are therefore set out below in italics, and it should be noted that many of the features discussed therein may also be incorporated in, or as part of, embodiments of the present invention. However, this is not to say that embodiments of the present invention must necessarily incorporate (any of) these features. Indeed, for the avoidance of doubt, the present invention is not necessarily limited to or by any features or aspects shown in any of the Figures included in this specification (including Figures 47-69), or to or by any of the associated explanations.

Extract from PCT/AU2008/001826: explanations provided with reference to Figures 1-46:

Referring to Figure 4, an underground 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 111 moves forward along the roadway 101.

The continuous haulage apparatus 113 also includes a series 115 of extendable support apparatuses 116 (see Figure 5) which extend rearward from the mobile boot end 114. 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 (see Figure 5) so that as the mobile boot end 114 moves towards and away from the coal face 112, at least one 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 119 for extending the length of the belt conveyor 118 is 21

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 apparatuses 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.

Referring to Figures 6 and 7, each extendable support apparatus 116 includes an extendable frame 130 and a rest 131 for supporting the conveyor belt relative to the frame 130. The support apparatus 116 is able to be extended and retracted by respectively extending and retracting the frame 130 while the conveyor belt of the continuous haulage apparatus 113 circulates relative to the apparatus 113 and the support apparatus 116, and while the conveyor belt is support by the rest 131. In this way, the extendable support apparatus 116 allows the continuous haulage apparatus 113 to continuously haul coal which is mined by the continuous miner 112 even while one or more of the extendable support apparatus 116 is/are being extended or retracted in response to movement of the mobile boot end or the station 119.

The extendable frame 130 includes a pair of laterally separated telescopic rails 132. With reference to Figure 8, each rail 132 includes a first hollow segment 133, a second hollow segment 134, and a third hollow segment 135. The second segment 134 is received by the first segment 133 and is able to be extended and retracted relative to the first segment 133. The third segment 135 is received by the second segment 134 and is able to be extended and retracted relative to the third segment 135. The first segment 133 includes an elongate opening 136 which extends the length of the first segment 133. The second segment 134 includes an elongate opening 137 which extends the length of the second segment 134. The third segment 135 includes a channel 138 which extends the length of the third segment 135. The elongate openings 136, 137 and the channel 138 are 22

aligned with each other.

Referring back to Figures 6 and 7, one end of the second segment 134 includes a collar 139, and one end of the third segment 135 includes a collar 140. A respective joint member 141 is secured to each end of each rail 132. Each joint member 141 includes a socket 142.

The extendable frame 130 also includes a base 150 which supports the telescopic rails 132. Base 150 includes a plurality of leg members 151 secured to the first segment 133 of each telescopic rail 132, a plurality of lateral members 152, and a plurality of longitudinal members 153. A plurality of skids or pads 154 are secured to the longitudinal members 153.

Rest 131 includes a plurality of rot at able return idler rollers 160 which are secured relative to the base 150 at spaced locations along the base 150. The return idler rollers 160 function to support the return-side of the conveyor belt.

Rest 131 also includes a plurality of idler assemblies 161 for supporting the carry-side of the conveyor belt. Each idler assembly 161 includes an idler support frame 162, and a plurality of rot at able idler rollers 163 supported by the frame 162.

Referring to Figure 9, the idler support frame 162 includes a base 164, a pair of inner roller supports 165, and a pair of outer roller supports 166. A respective bearing 167 is located at each end of the base 164.

The idler assemblies 161 are carried by the telescopic rails 132 such that the idler assemblies 161 are able to slide back and forth along the rails 132. In particular, with reference to Figure 8, each end of each idler assembly base 164 is received by the aligned openings 136, 137 and channel 138 of each telescopic rail 132 such that the base 164 is able to slide along the openings 136, 137 and channel 138 of each rail 132.

Referring to Figure 6, the idler assemblies 161 are connected together by connecting links 168 so that as either one of the assemblies 161 is moved along the rails 132 away from the other assembly 161, the other assembly 161 will follow.

The extendable support apparatus 116 also includes a length- adjusting means 170 which is operable to extend and retract the extendable frame 130 by extending and retracting the telescopic rails 132. The length- adjusting means 170 includes a respective hydraulic cylinder 171 secured to each telescopic rail 132. For clarity, the cylinders 171 have not been depicted in Figure 7.

Extending the cylinders 171 extends the telescopic rails 132 so that the frame 130 is thereby extended. Retracting the cylinders retracts the telescopic rails 132 so that the extendable frame 130 is retracted.

With particular reference to Figure 7, the extendable support apparatus 116 also includes a shifting means 172 which is operable to shift the apparatus 116 laterally. Shifting means 172 includes a respective pair of extendable arms or jacks 173 at each end of the base 150. The amis 173 at each end of the base 150 are able to be extended in opposite directions so that the shifting means 172 can shift the apparatus 116 from one side to the other. For example, if the apparatus 116 is located in a roadway in an underground mine, and it is desired to shift the apparatus 116 from one side of the roadway to the other side, one of the arms 173 at each end of the base 150 is extended so that each of the extended arms 173 push against a wall or rib of the roadway so that the apparatus 116 is thereby pushed in the desired direction. The apparatus 116 can be pushed or shifted in the other direction by retracting the extended arms 172, and extending the other arms 172 (i.e. the arms 172 on the other side) so that they push against an opposite wall or rib.

Referring to Figure 11, the belt structure building, installation and extension station 119 includes a conveyor belt lifter apparatus 180 which includes a carry-side conveyor belt support 181 and a return-side conveyor belt support 182. Both supports 181, 182 are secured to a base 183 which includes one or more longitudinal members 184, and a plurality of leg members 185. A pivot 186 allows the support 181 to be pivoted relative to the base 183. The opposite end of the support 181 to the pivot 186 is able to be raised and lowered so that the support 181 is able to be pivoted about the pivot 186. Lifter apparatus 180 also includes a joint member 187 which includes a socket 188 so that the apparatus is able to be joined to the extendable support apparatus 116.

Refem ^' ng to Figure 5, when the support 181 is raised, the support 181 supports the weight of the carry-side of the conveyor belt and lifts the belt off the belt conveyor 118 so that the conveyor 118 can be extended or retracted while the conveyor belt continues to circulate and haul coal. 24

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 the vertical actuation of the carry-side of the belt by the support 181 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. No vertical lifting component is necessary for this option.

With reference to Figure 10, the adjacent extendable support apparatuses 116 in the series 115 are joined together by linkages 190 which are received by the sockets 142 of the adjacent joining members 141 of the apparatus 116 to form the articulated joints 120. The belt lifter apparatus 180 is joined to the extendable support apparatus 116 in a similar manner. The articulated joints 120 enable the extendable support apparatus 116 and the belt lifter apparatus 180 to pivot relative to each other.

In operation, once each of the support apparatus 116 have been extended towards the coal face 112 as far as possible, the end of the support apparatus series 115 which is secured to the station 119 is retracted towards the coal face 112 so that a gap is formed between the station 119 and the end of the conveyor 118. The outbye end of the lifter apparatus 180 (i.e. the end of the lifter apparatus 180 which is closest to the conveyor 118) is elevated as previously explained so that the support 181 supports the weight of the conveyor belt and lifts the belt off the conveyor 118 so that the conveyor 118 can be extended towards the station 119.

Figures 12 and 13 depict an alternative extendable support apparatus 200 for supporting the conveyor belt. Apparatus 200 may be used in place of apparatus 116 in the continuous haulage apparatus 113. Apparatus 200 includes an extendable frame 201 which includes a pair of laterally separated telescopic rails 202. Each rail 202 includes a first hollow segment 203, a second hollow segment 204 which is received by the first segment 203 such that the second segment 204 is able to be extended and retracted relative to . 25

the first segment 203, and a third hollow segment 205 which is received by the second segment 204 such that the third segment 205 is able to be extended and retracted relative to the second segment 204. An elongate opening 206 extends along the length of the second segment 204, and an elongate opening 207 extends along the length of the third segment 205. The elongate openings 206, 207 are aligned with each other.

Extendable frame 201 also includes a base 208 which includes a plurality of leg members 209 extending from the rails 202 such that one leg member 209 extends from the second segment 204 and the third segment

205 of each rail 202, and such that three leg members 209 extend from the first segment 203 of each rail 202. A respective longitudinal member 210 is secured to the leg members 209 which extend from the first segment 203 of each rail 202. Base 208 also includes a plurality of lateral members 211.

Apparatus 200 also includes a rest 220 for supporting the conveyor belt. Rest 220 includes a plurality of rotatable return idler rollers 221 which are secured relative to the first segment 203 of each rail 202. Return idler rollers 221 function to support the return-side of the conveyor belt.

Rest 220 also includes a plurality of idler assemblies 222 which are supported or carried by the first segment 203 of each rail 202. Idler assemblies 222 are fixed in position relative to the segments 203. Each idler assembly 222 includes an idler support frame 223, and a plurality of rotatable idler rollers 224 mounted on the frame 223. Idler rollers 224 are for supporting the carry-side of the conveyor belt.

A plurality of idler assemblies 225 are carried by the second segment 204 and also the third segment 205 of each rail 202. Each idler assembly 225 includes an idler support frame 226, a plurality of rotatable idler rollers 227 supported by the frame 226, and a rotatable idler roller 228 supported by the frame 226. Idler rollers 227 are for supporting the carry-side of the conveyor belt, and the idler roller 228 is for supporting the return-side of the conveyor belt.

The frame 226 of each idler roller assembly 225 which is carried by the second segment 205 of each rail 202 is received by the elongate opening

206 in each segment 205 such that the frame 226 is able to slide along the segments 205. Similarly, the frame 226 of each idler roller assembly 225 which is carried by the third segment 205 of each rail 202 is received by the 26

elongate opening 207 in each segment 205 such that the frame 226 is able to slide along the segments 205.

All of the idler assemblies 225 which are carried by the second segments 204 are connected to each other in series by one or more connecting links (not depicted). The idler assembly 225 which is carried by the second segments 204 and which is closest to the first segments 203 is connected relative to the first segments 203 so that as the second segments 204 are extended from the first segments 203, the idler assemblies 225 move back along the second segments 204 towards the first segments 203. The idler assemblies 225 carried by the second segments 204 are spaced apart from each other as depicted in Figure 12 once the second segments 204 have been fully extended relative to the first segments 203. When the second segments 204 are retracted into the first segments 203, the idler assemblies 225 carried on the second segments 204 are forced back towards the end of each second segment 204 which is distal to each of the first segments 203 as shown in Figure 13.

Likewise, all of the idler assemblies 225 which are carried by the third segments 205 are connected to each other in series by one or more connecting links. The idler assembly 225 which is carried by the third segments 205 and which is closest to the second segments 204 is connected relative to the second segments 204 so that as the third segments 205 are extended relative to the second segments 204, the idler assemblies 225 move back along the third segments 205 towards the second segments 204. The idler assemblies 225 carried by the third segments 205 are spaced apart from each other as depicted in Figure 12 once the third segments 205 have been fully extended relative to the second segments 204. When the third segments 205 are retracted into the second segments 204, the idler assemblies 225 carried by the third segments 205 are forced back towards the end of each third segment 205 which is distal to each of the second segments 204 as shown in Figure 13.

Apparatus 200 also includes a shifting means 230 which comprises a plurality of extendable hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders 231. The cylinders 231 operate in a similar manner to the extendable arms 173 of the apparatus 116, and are able to laterally shift the apparatus 200 and then shift it back again. 27

Referring to Figure 14, a mining apparatus 240 is depicted extending along a development roadway 241 in an underground room and pillar coal mine. Apparatus 240 is identical to the mining apparatus 110, except that apparatus 240 includes a series of extendable support apparatus 200 instead of a series of extendable support apparatus 116. For convenience, like features of the mining apparatus 110 and 240 have been referenced with like reference numbers.

Figure 14 depicts the mining apparatus 240 when its continuous haulage apparatus 113 is in an initial startup position in which each extendable support apparatus 200 is in the fully retracted position.

Figure 15 depicts the mining apparatus 240 and the roadway 241 after the roadway 241 has been developed by a distance of 30 metres from the startup position depicted in Figure 14. As the continuous miner 111 and mobile boot end 114 are advanced along the roadway 241, each extendable support apparatus 200 is extended towards the coalface 112 so that coal mined by the miner 111 and transferred to the mobile boot end 114 is continuously hauled by the haulage apparatus 113 back along the roadway 241.

Referring to Figure 16, station 119, extendable support apparatus 200, and the mobile boot end 114 are shown after being shifted sideways in the roadway 241 by the extendable cylinders 231 of the extendable support apparatus 200. The cylinders 230 are shown whilst still in their extended position.

Figure 17 depicts the side-shifted station 119, extendable support apparatus 200, and mobile boot end 114 after the cylinders 230 have been retracted. Sufficient room, has been created beside the apparatus 240 by the side-shift for a front-end loader 242 to drive alongside the shifted components of the apparatus 240 and towards the continuous miner 111. The continuous miner 111 is being supplied by the loader 242 for every 30 metres of the roadway 241 which the miner 111 develops.

Referring to Figure 18, the station 119, extendable support apparatus 200, and the mobile boot end 114 are shown after being shitted sideways back to the position depicted in Figure 15. The cylinders 230 are shown still in their extended position.

Figure 19 depicts the mining apparatus 240 and the roadway 241 28

after the roadway 241 has been developed by another 30 metres. Each extendable support apparatus 200 is fully extended.

Figure 20 depicts the mining apparatus 240 after the belt installation station 119 has been used to extend the length of the belt conveyor 118 towards the coalface 112. As the belt conveyor 118 is extended, each extendable support apparatus 200 is retracted so that the station 119 moves towards the mobile boot end 114. The continuous haulage apparatus 113 which includes the belt conveyor 118 is able to operate continuously, even while each extendable support apparatus 200 is being retracted and the belt conveyor 118 is being extended. Two future 30 metre development intervals 243 are depicted in phantom.

Figures 21 to 29 depict an extendable support apparatus 250 for supporting the conveyor belt. Apparatus 250 can be used in place of apparatus 116 or apparatus 200 in the continuous haulage apparatus 113. Apparatus 250 includes an extendable frame 251 which includes a first pair of laterally separated telescopic rails 252, and a second pair of laterally separated telescopic rails 253 secured to the first pair of rails 252.

Each telescopic rail 252 includes a first hollow segment 254, a second hollow segment 255 which is received by the first segment 254 such that the second segment 255 is able to be extended and retracted relative to the first segment 254, and a third hollow segment 256 which is received by the second segment 255 such that the third segment 256 is able to be extended and retracted relative to the second segment 255.

Each telescopic rail 253 includes a first hollow segment 257, a second hollow segment 258 which is received by the first segment 257 such that the second segment 258 is able to be extended and retracted relative to the first segment 257, and a third hollow segment 259 which is received by the second segment 258 such that the third segment 259 is able to be extended and retracted relative to the second segment 258.

The first segment 257 of each rail 253 is secured to the third segment 256 of a respective one of the rails 252 so that the rails 253 extend from the rails 252.

Extendable frame 251 also includes a base 260 which includes a plurality of leg members 261 extending from the rails 252, 253. A respective longitudinal member 262 is secured to the leg members 261 which extend 29

from the first segment 254 of each rail 252. Base 260 also includes a plurality of lateral members 263.

Apparatus 250 also includes a rest 270 for supporting the conveyor belt. Rest 270 includes a plurality of idler assemblies 271 which are carried by and affixed in position to the first segment 254 of each rail 252. Each assembly 271 includes an idler support frame 272, a plurality of rotatable idler rollers 273 mounted on the frame 272, and a rotatable idler roller 274 mounted on the frame 272. Rollers 273 are for supporting the carry-side of the conveyor belt, and roller 274 is for supporting the return-side of the conveyor belt.

Rest 270 also includes a plurality of translatable idler assemblies 275 carried by the second and third segments 255, 256 of the first rails 252 and the second rails 253. Each idler assembly 275 includes an idler support frame 276 which is able to move along the outside of the rails 252, 253, a plurality of rotatable idler rollers 277 mounted on the frame 276, and a rotatable idler roller 278 mounted on the frame 276. Rollers 277 are for supporting the carry-side of the conveyor belt, and roller 278 is for supporting the return-side of the conveyor belt.

All of the idler assemblies 275 which are earned by the second segments 255 of the first rails 252 are connected to each other in series by connecting links 279. Respective connecting links 279 also connect the idler assemblies 275 which are carried by the other segments 256, 258, 259. Each connecting link 279 is secured relative to an adjacent segment so that as the apparatus 250 is extended, the links 279 cause the idler assemblies 275 to spread out along the segments 255, 256, 258, 259. When the apparatus 250 is retracted, the assemblies 275 are forced to move towards each other until they reach the positions depicted in Figure 22.

Apparatus 250 also includes a length-adjusting means 280 for extending and retracting the rails 252, 253. Length-adjusting means 280 includes a pair of extendable cylinders 281 for extending and retracting the rails 252, and a pair of extendable cylinders 282 for extending and retracting the rails 253.

In addition, apparatus 250 includes a pair of lanyard emergency stop reels 283 which are secured relative to the first segments 254. An end of a lanyard 284 of each winch 283 is secured relative to the segments 259. 30

Figures 30 to 39 depict an extendable support apparatus 290 for supporting the conveyor belt. Like apparatus 250, the apparatus 290 can be used in place of apparatus 116 or apparatus 200 in the continuous haulage apparatus 113. Apparatus 290 is very similar to apparatus 250, and like reference numbers have been used to reference like features of the apparatus 250 and the apparatus 290.

Extension of the rails 252, 253 and, hence, the apparatus 290 can be achieved for example by coupling the apparatus 290 to a mobile boot end and then having the mobile boot end move away from the apparatus 290.

Apparatus 290 also includes a shifting means 291 which is operable to shift the apparatus 290 sideways similarly to the shifting means 230 of the apparatus 200. Shifting means 291 includes a plurality of rails 292 on which the leg members 261 rest such that the leg members 261 are able to slide back and forth along the rails 292.

Referring to Figure 40, shifting means 291 also includes extendable cylinders 293 secured to the rails 292 and to at least some of the lateral members 263. Cylinders 293 can be extended and retracted so as to cause the leg members 261 and, hence, the apparatus 290 to move from side to side on the rails 292.

Apparatus 290 also includes a height-adjusting means 300 which is operable to both raise and lower the rails 252, 253 of the apparatus 290, and to keep the rails 252, 253 substantially level even when the ground on which the apparatus 290 rests is uneven or has a gradient. Height-adjusting means includes a plurality of extendable cylinders 301 in the legs 261 of the apparatus 290. Extension of the cylinders 301 raises the rails 252, 253, while retraction of the cylinders 301 lowers the rails 252, 253.

Apparatus 290 also includes a pair of articulated attachment links 294 for allowing a mobile boot end to draw the apparatus 290 behind it.

Figure 40 depicts the apparatus 290 while the cylinders 293 are extended and while the cylinders 301 are retracted.

Figure 41 depicts the apparatus 290 when the cylinders 301 are extended so that the rails 252, 253 are raised. Cylinders 293 have not been retracted so the lateral position of the apparatus 290 relative to the rails 292 is the same as that depicted in Figure 40.

Figure 42 depicts the apparatus 290 after the cylinders 293 have been 31

partially retracted so that the apparatiis 290 has been shifted laterally along the rails 292.

Figure 43 depicts the apparatus 290 after the cylinders 293 have been fully retracted, and after the cylinders 301 have been fully retracted to lower the rails 252, 253.

Figure 44 depicts the apparatus 290 after the cylinders 293 have been fully extended so that the apparatus 290 has been shifted back to the lateral position depicted in Figure 40.

Referring to Figures 45 and 46, an underground longwall coal mine 310 includes a coal seam 311, a coal face 312, a cavity 313 in front of the coal face 312, and a roadway 314 leading from the cavity 313. A mining apparatus 320, which is located in the mine 310, is used to cut coal from the coal face 312 and to haul the cut coal away from the coalface 312.

Mining apparatus 320 includes a longwall machine 321 which is located in the cavity 313. Longwall machine 321 includes a plurality of moveable chocks or shields 322 for supporting the roof of the mine 310 and to protect the miners during the mining process. Located in front of the shields 322 are a conveyor 323 and a shearer 324. The shearer 324 moves along the coal face 312 from one side of the coal face 312 to the other. The shearer 324 cuts coal from the coal face 312 as it traverses across the coal face 312. The coal which is cut by the shearer 324 drops onto the conveyor 323, which hauls the coal towards the roadway 314. Once the coal reaches the roadway 314, it is transferred to a beam stage loader 325 which in turn transfers the coal to a mobile boot end 326 which stays in close proximity to the beam stage loader 325. The mobile boot end 326 is coupled to one or more extendable support apparatus 327. The extendable support apparatus 327 is coupled to a belt retraction station 328. A retractable belt conveyor 329 extends from the station 328. Conveyor 329 includes an endless conveyor belt which is supported by each extendable support apparatus 327. Conveyor 329 also includes a jib 330, a drive 331 for circulating the conveyor belt, and a loop take-up 332 for extending and retracting the conveyor belt in response to extension or retraction of the extendable support apparatus 327 and conveyor 329.

Each extendable support apparatus 327 may, for example, be one of the extendable support apparatus 116, 200, 250, 290 described previously. 32

The mobile boot end 326, extendable support apparatus 327, belt retraction station 328, and belt conveyor 329 together form a continuous haulage apparatus 333 of the mining apparatus 320.

After each pass of the shearer 324 across the coal face 311, the longwall machine 321 is advanced along the coal seam 311, When the long wall machine 321 advances along the coal seam 311, the continuous haulage apparatus 333 is retracted along the roadway 314. The continuous haulage apparatus 333 may be retracted by moving the mobile boot end 326 back along the roadway 314 by a sufficient amount, which in turn causes the extendable support apparatus 327 to retract. If the extendable support apparatus 327 is fully retracted, the belt retraction station 328 which is similar to the belt installation station 119, is used to retract the belt conveyor 329 so that a gap is formed between the station 328 and the conveyor 329. The extendable support apparatus 327 is then extended towards the conveyor 329 to close the gap. The continuous haulage apparatus 333 is able to haul coal continuously during the whole retraction process without any interruptions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES 47-69

In order that the invention may be more fully understood and put into practice, certain embodiments thereof will be explained with reference to Figures 47- 69: However, it should also be recalled that (as mentioned above) many of the features discussed above with reference to Figures 1-46 may also be incorporated in, or as part of, embodiments of the invention.

Figures 47 and 48 depict an extendable support apparatus 400 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention which is operable to support the belt of a belt conveyor. Figures 49-60 also show different views of the extendable support apparatus 400, or different parts thereof. It should be appreciated from the outset that the function and operation of the apparatus 400 is similar in many respects to the function and operation of the apparatuses 116, 200, 250 and 290 described above.

The apparatus 400 includes an extendable frame. However, unlike the apparatuses 116, 200, 250 and 290 described above, the extendable frame of the apparatus 400 does not have a pair of laterally separated telescopic rails. Instead, in apparatus 400, on both sides of the extendable frame there are a number of 33

extension segments which can slide/extend relative to respective adjacent segment(s). Specifically, and as clearly visible in the extended configuration in Figures 47, 49 and 50, on either side of the extendable frame there is a first segment 401 , a second segment 402, a third segment 403, a fourth segment 404, a fifth segment 405 and a sixth segment 406. Therefore, when the two sides of the apparatus are considered together, it will be seen that there is a pair of first segments 401 , a pair of second segments 402, and so on. Also, as clearly shown in these Figures, the second segments 402 can be extended relative to the first segments 401 , the third segments 403 can be extended relative to the second segments 402, etc.

To enable the second segments 402 to extend relative to the first segments 401 , a collar 414 is provided on the end of each of the first segments 401. The respective second segments 402 insert into the said collars 414 and they are able to slide back and forth within the collars. The way in which the third segments 403 are slidably mounted relative to the second segments 402 is the same, and it is the same too for the fourth, fifth and sixth segments.

Although not shown in Figures 47-60, the first segment 401 on one side could possibly be connected to the first segment 401 on the other side, and the second segment 402 on one side could be connected to the second segment 402 on the other side, and the same for the third segments, etc. This could be done by having a transverse member extending between the two segments in each respective pair. For each pair, the transverse member could extend between the ends of the two segments which point in the opposite direction to which the members extended. As may be appreciated from Figure 48, if transverse members were to extend between these ends of the respective segments, the transverse members would not prevent the segments from moving into the retracted "stacked together" configuration shown.

The apparatus 400 also includes a base 408 which includes a base plate 407, and a plurality of leg members. Each of the first segments 401 has two connected leg members 409. The two leg members 409 on each first segment 401 extend down, one from either end of the first segment 401 , to connect the first segment 401 to the base plate 407 (i.e. the leg members 409 fixedly mount each first segment 401 in a raised/elevated position relative to the base plate 407).

Each one of the second to sixth segments has a single leg 410. On each of these segments, the leg 410 extends down from the end of the segment which points in the direction that the segment extends relative to the base plate 407. 34

Because the legs 410 of the respective second to sixth segments rest on the base plate 407 when the apparatus is retracted (see Figure 48) but they then become positioned off/beyond the end of the base plate 407 when the apparatus is extended (see Figure 47), therefore each of the legs 410 incorporates height-adjustment means so that the length of the respective legs 410 can be adjusted for correct leveling of the apparatus. This also allows the apparatus to be leveled on uneven ground etc. The height-adjustment means may be of any form. For example, the height-adjustment means could be similar to the height-adjustment means described above with reference to Figures 40-44. Alternatively, each of the legs could be individually telescopically extensible and securable at different extension lengths by clamps or pins, or the length of individual legs may be adjusted using a ratchet-type mechanism, etc. Other arrangements are also possible.

The base 408 may also incorporate its own height-adjustment means. This is not shown in the Figures. However, this height-adjustment means may operate to adjust the height of the first segments 401 (and possibly other parts of the apparatus as well) relative to the surface of the ground. Any means or mechanism suitable for performing this function may be used for this. Typically, a hydraulically actuated means such of hydraulic jacks for struts will be used. As the base's height- adjustment means operates to adjust the height of the first segments 401 above the ground, it will therefore be understood that, in use, the height of the first segments 401 relative to the ground will generally be set first, and then as each of the second to sixth segments extend, the height-adjustment means on the respective legs 410 may be used to ensure that the height of the extension segments remains level with the height of the first segments 401.

More specifically, the height-adjustment means for each of the respective legs 410 maybe "self setting". That is, as the relevant legs 410 extend off the base plate 407 as they extend, the extensible portion thereof may drop/extend down (typically under gravity) so that the length of the leg becomes automatically set to maintain the relevant segment at the appropriate level/height relative to the adjacent segment(s). It is envisaged that each of the legs 410 may often comprise a ratchet mechanism and a portion of the leg will be able to extend downwardly (i.e. to extend the length of the leg) unimpeded by the ratchet mechanism, and when the appropriate length is reached the ratchet mechanism may secure the leg at that length and prevent it from collapsing. The length of the respective legs may therefore be set "automatically" or without the need for manual setting or other user 35

input/adjustment.

The apparatus 400 includes a rest 420 for supporting the conveyor belt. The rest 420 is made up of a plurality of carry idler assemblies 422 and a plurality of return rollers 421. The carry idler assemblies 422 operate to support the upper carry-side of the conveyor belt, and the return rollers 421 function to support the lower retum-side of the conveyor belt.

Each return roller 421 is secured between (or approximately between) a respective pair of legs 409 or 410. For instance, there is a return roller 421 mounted between the two legs 410 on the ends of the sixth segments 406. There is also a return roller 421 mounted approximately between the two legs 410 on the ends of the fifth segments 405. The same is true of the fourth, third and second segments. There is a return roller 421 mounted approximately between both pairs of legs 409 (recall that the legs 409 secure the respective first segments 401 to the base plate 407).

As shown in the Figures, there are two carry idler assemblies 422 extending between the first segments 401. The position of these two idler assemblies 422 along the apparatus' extension axis is fixed relative to the first segments 401. However these two idler assemblies can still pivot or move in a direction perpendicular to the apparatus' extension axis for reasons discussed below.

There are also two carry idler assemblies 422 extending between each of the second segments 402, and it is the same for the third to sixth segments. However, unlike the idler assemblies which extend between the first segments 401 , the idler assemblies 422 which extend between the second to sixth segments are not fixed relative to their respective extension segments. Rather, these idler assemblies 422 are able to slide back and forth along their relevant segments (i.e. back and forth parallel to the apparatus' extension axis). In other words, the two idler assemblies 422 which extend between the second segments 402 can each slide back and forth on/along the second segments 402. The same applies to the carry idler assemblies 422 which extend between the third, fourth, fifth and sixth segments.

The way in which the idler assemblies 422 are slidably mounted to their relevant second to sixth segments will be discussed further below. ^' However, for present purposes, it will be appreciated that the ability of these idler assemblies 422 to slide back and forth along their relevant segments enables them to become spaced apart as shown in Figures 47, 49 and 50 when the apparatus is fully extended. It also allows them to be brought (or "stacked") together as shown in 36

Figures 48, 51 and 52 when the apparatus is retracted.

Referring to the carry idler assemblies 422 themselves, each carry idler assembly 422 has an idler support frame 426 and three rotatable idler rollers 427 supported by the frame 426. On each idler assembly 422, the three idler rollers 427 5 are arranged end to end. The middle idler roller of each assembly is approximately horizontal, and the idler rollers on either side are sloped so that the rollers 427 of each assembly define a concave or "cup ^* shape. This concave arrangement of the rollers 427 is quite conventional and it assists the carriage of material on the upper carry-side of the conveyor belt.

to The particular idler assembly 422 which is on the second segments 402 and which is closest to the first segments 401 (i.e. the idler assembly indicated 422' in Figures 47, 50 and 59) is connected relative to the first segments 401 by a connecting link (not shown). The other idler assembly 422 on the second segment 402, and the idler assemblies 422 on the third to sixth segments, are also connected i s by such connecting links, each to the next in series along the apparatus. Recall also that the idler assemblies 422 which are carried by the second segments 402 are able to slide on the second segments 402, and those on the third segments 403 are able to slide on the third segments, etc. Therefore, starting in the retracted position, when the second segments 402 initially begin to extend relative to the first segments0 401 , both of the idler assemblies 422 on the second segments will initially move (i.e. extend out) together with (and at the same rate as) the second segments 402. However, when the distance between the idler assembly 422' and the first segments 401 reaches the extent of the connecting link (i.e. the above-mentioned link which connects the idler assembly 422' relative to the first segments 401) the idler 5 , assembly 422' will be halted. The second segments 402 will, however, continue to extend out. In other words, the second segments 402 will effectively continue sliding out beneath the idler assembly 422' which then is held in place (restrained) by the connecting link. Then, when the next idler assembly 422 along (i.e. the other idler assembly on the second segments 402) reaches the extent of the connecting link0 between it and the assembly 422', that next idler assembly will also be halted, although again the second segments 402 will continue extending out until they reach their full extension. The same process occurs as the third segments 403 extend out relative to the second segments 402, and so on. In this way the idler assemblies 422 become spaced out as shown in Figures 47, 49 and 50 when the apparatus is fully 5 extended. It will be understood that, except for the idler assemblies 422 on the first 37

segments 401 which cannot slide along the first segments, for the other idler assemblies 422 the spacing between one idler assembly and the next when the apparatus is extended is defined by the length of the connecting link between one idler assembly and the next.

It should also be appreciated that the extension of the apparatus could alternatively start at the other end. That is to say, starting in the retracted configuration, extension of the apparatus could commence with the sixth segments 406 beginning to extend relative to the fifth segments 405. In this situation, when the sixth segments 406 initially begin to extend relative to the fifth segments 405, both of the idler assemblies 422 on the sixth segments will initially move (i.e. extend out) together with the sixth segments 406. However, when the distance between the idler assembly 422 shown second from the right in Figures 47 and 48 reaches the extent of the connecting link between it and the immediately preceding idler assembly 422 on the fifth segments 405, the said idler assembly 422 on the sixth segments will be halted. The sixth segments 406 will, however, continue to slide out beneath the halted idler assembly 422. Then, when the next idler assembly 422 along (i.e. the other idler assembly on the sixth segments 406) reaches the extent of the connecting link between it and the previous idler assembly 422, that next idler assembly will also be halted, although again the sixth segments 406 will continue extending out until they reach their full extension. The same process occurs as the fifth segments. 405 extend out relative to the fourth segments 404, and the fourth segments relative to the third, and so on.

In use, the apparatus can be connected to a mobile boot end (not shown in Figures 47-60). Therefore the movement of the mobile boot end (which follows/tracks the movement of the continuous mining machine) causes the apparatus to extend. More specifically, means will be provided for connecting the apparatus to the mobile boot end. In the embodiment of apparatus 400, the connecting means comprises a pair of mounting blocks 411 , one on the end of each of the first segments 401 as shown in Figures 47-52. The mobile boot end therefore connects on this end of the apparatus (i.e. the end of the apparatus shown on the left-hand side in Figures 47 and 48). Each lug 411 has a hole therein to enable the boot end to be bolted or otherwise connected thereto. Hence, as the continuous mining machine progresses, the mobile boot end will move with it in the direction of arrow B (see Figure 47), and this will in turn cause the first segments 401 (together with the base plate 407 etc) to be pulled in that direction. As the first segments 401 38

(and the base plate 407 etc) are drawn along in this way, this causes the apparatus 400 to begin extending.

Naturally, if the mobile boot end were to move in the reverse direction to that just described (i.e. the opposite direction to arrow B) this could cause the apparatus to commence retracting (i.e. simply the reverse of the extension process described above). However, it may often be necessary to retract the apparatus from the extended configuration after the apparatus has been detached from the mobile boot end. To enable this, retraction means (not shown) may be provided. It is envisaged that the retraction means for assisting in retracting the respective second to sixth segments relative to the first segments 401 will be hydraulically actuated, although any other suitable means could also be used. In any case, when the apparatus is retracted, the idler assemblies 422 on the second to sixth segments will come together as the segments retract relative to each other, and those idler assemblies 422 will ultimately become "stacked" together as shown in Figures 48, 51 and 52 when the apparatus fully retracted.

The operation of the apparatus 400 in use may be further understood with reference back to Figures 14-20. That is to say, the extendable support apparatus 400 may be used in the same way as the extendable support apparatus 200 shown in and described with reference to those Figures. The extendable support apparatus 400 might also incorporate, for example, shifting means for shifting sideways, as well as other features shown and explained in Figures 1-46.

However, the extendable support apparatus 400 (which is an apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention) also provides functionality not provided by the extendable support apparatuses 116, 200, 250 and 290 described above. In particular, the apparatus 400 provides means which enable it to be installed on a continuous belt of a belt conveyor without the need to disconnect, deconstruct, disassemble, break, or otherwise separate the continuous belt. In other words, the apparatus 400 can be installed while the belt remains intact and continuous. In fact, it is even possible to install the apparatus 400 while the belt is in motion (circulating). Those skilled in the art will recognise that there are significant advantages associated with the ability to install the apparatus without having to break or disconnect the continuous belt. These include significantly reduced downtimes required to install the apparatus on the belt. Such time savings may significantly increase mining productivity.

The way in which the functionality described in the previous paragraph is 39

achieved in the embodiment of apparatus 400 is illustrated in Figure 54. As shown in Figure 54, the carry idler assemblies 422 (all of them) are able to pivot so that they lift or tilt up (or one side thereof lifts or tilts up relative to the other). In this way, the apparatus can be "opened", and this allows the apparatus 400 to be installed on a continuous conveyor belt (or even on a moving conveyor belt) without breaking or disconnecting the belt.

More specifically, in order to install the apparatus 400 on a continuous conveyor belt, all of the carry idler assemblies 422 on the apparatus are first pivoted/lifted into the open position (the open position of the idler assemblies 422 is shown in phantom in Figure 54). Then, with the carry idler assemblies 422 in the open position, the apparatus 400 can be moved into position relative to the belt such that the lower return-side of the belt passes beneath the raised idler assemblies 422 but the upper carry-side of the belt passes over the top of the raised idler assemblies 422. Then, the idler assemblies 422 can be moved back down into their "closed" position whereupon the return-side of the belt becomes positioned on, and supported by, the return rollers 421 , and the carry-side of the belt becomes positioned on, and supported by, the rollers 427 of the carry idler assemblies 422. It is also significant that, when the idler assemblies 422 are in the closed position, both ends of each idler assembly 422 (i.e. the ends of the idler assembly on either side of the apparatus) will be supported by the relevant extension segment, one on each side. This is important because it provides rigidity and prevents the idler assemblies from flexing or deflecting unduly under the weight of material on the conveyor belt, etc.

The process for installing the apparatus 400 on a conveyor belt is represented schematically in Figures 66 and 67. In Figure 66, the extendable support apparatus is shown beside the belt prior to installation on the belt. When the apparatus is in this position relative to the belt, the carry idler assemblies 422 are first raised into their open position, and the apparatus is then slid or otherwise moved towards the belt. As the apparatus moves towards and becomes correctly positioned relative to the belt, the raised idler assemblies 422 pass between the upper carry- side of the belt and the lower return-site of the belt. That is, the carry-side of the belt passes over the top of the idler assemblies and the return-side of the belt passes below the idler assemblies. Hence, when the apparatus is correctly positioned relative to the belt, the idler assemblies 422 can be moved back down into their closed position such that the return side of the belt becomes supported on the return rollers 421 and the carry-side of the belt becomes supported on the carry idler 40

assemblies 422.

Figures 68 and 69 are essentially the same as Figures 66 and 67 respectively, except that whereas Figures 66 and 67 illustrate the installation of a single apparatus 400 (i.e. the installation of a first extendable support apparatus 400) on the section of belt between the mobile boot and 114 and the station 119, Figures 68 and 69 on the other hand illustrate the situation where a first apparatus 400 has already been installed on the belt immediately behind the mobile boot and 144 and a second apparatus 400 is shown pre- and post- installation between the existing apparatus and the station 119. Figures 68 and 69 highlight the fact that, in practice, not every one of the apparatuses needs to connect directly to the mobile boot end. Indeed, a number of the apparatuses 400 may be connected together in series, with the first being connected to the mobile boot end (via mounting blocks 411 as described above), and each subsequent apparatus 400 in the series being connected to the previous apparatus, etc. To enable this, Figures 48-52 show that the apparatus 400 has a pair of lugs 412, one on the end of each of the sixth segments 406. The lugs 412 can connect to the mounting blocks 411 of the next apparatus 400 in the series.

In some embodiments, the idler assemblies 422 could be raised from the closed position to the open position manually. Alternatively some form of lifting means (not shown on apparatus 400 in the Figures) may be provided. The lifting means could be any kind of mechanical or electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically powered means.

It should be noted that, whilst all of the carry idler assemblies 422 should be raised into the open position together (or at least generally together) so that they are all open at the same time to allow the apparatus to be installed on the belt, and whilst they should all then be lowered together to complete the installation (and this opening and closing may be achieved by the above-mentioned lifting means), nevertheless in the apparatus 400 as shown in the Figures each of the idler assemblies 422 can pivot independently (i.e. each one can be raised and lowered independently of the others). This is because each one is independently pivotally mounted to the relevant first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth segment. The way in which each idler assembly 422 on the second to sixth segments is pivotally mounted to the relevant segment is illustrated in Figure 57 (recall that the idler assemblies 422 on the first segments 401 are different because they cannot slide along the first segments). 41

Figure 57 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the connection between the frame 426 of one of the idler assemblies 422 and the extendable segment to which that idler assembly is attached on one side of the apparatus. For the purposes of explanation, let it be assumed that the idler assembly which is part-shown in Figure 57 is the idler assembly designated 422' in Figures 47, 50, 55 and 59. Thus, the extension segment shown in cross-section in Figure 57 is the second segment 402 on the right-hand side of the apparatus in Figure 56. However, it will be understood that all of the slidable idler assemblies 422 connect to their relevant segments on that side of the apparatus in the same way as is shown in Figure 57.

It can be seen in Figure 57 that the frame 426 of the idler assembly 422' is mounted to the second segment 402 by a sliding collar 450. The sliding collar 450 is essentially a box-section of slightly larger dimension than the segment 402 and it is therefore able to slide back and forth along the segment. To further permit sliding, a low friction material 451 (for example nylon or the like) is inserted between the outside of the second segment 402 and the internal surface of the collar 450. The frame 426 of the idler assembly is pivotally mounted to the collar 450 by a hinge 452. Hence, the frame 426 can be pivoted in the direction of arrow A in order to pivot the idler assembly into the open position shown in phantom in Figure 54, and likewise it can be pivoted in the opposite direction in order to move it back into the closed position.

Figures 58 and 60 are enlarged top and side-on views respectively of the connection between the frame 426 of the idler assembly 422" and the second segment 402 on the other side of the apparatus (the left-hand side in Figures 55 and 56). Again, whilst it is the connection between the particular idler assembly 422' and the said second segment 402 which is shown in Figures 58 and 60, the way in which all of the other slidable idler assemblies connect to their relevant segments on this side is the same.

Importantly, the side of the idler assembly 422' shown in Figures 58 and 60 is the side which lifts up when the idler assembly 422 is pivoted/raised into the open position. It will therefore be recognised that the idler assembly is shown in the closed position in Figures 58 and 60.

As can be seen in Figure 60, when viewed side-on, the idler assembly's frame 426 comprises an inverted angle section. When the idler assembly 422' is in the closed position, the inverted angle section is received on a slightly smaller angled mount 453. The mount 453 is fixedly connected on top of a slidable collar 454. Like 42

the slidable collar 450 described above, slidable collar 454 is able to slide back and forth along the segment, and a low friction material is provided between it and the segment to further permit sliding.

Figures 58 and 60 also illustrate a pair of locking pins 460. Each of the locking pins 460 inserts through holes in both the frame 426 and the mount 453 to secure the frame 426 to the mount 453. Hence, when the idler assembly 422' is in the closed position and the locking pins 460 are inserted, the pins 460 function to prevent the idler assembly 422' from being raised into the open position. This prevents the idler assembly 422' from pivoting into the open position accidentally or during use. The pins 460 must therefore both be removed before it is possible to pivot the idler assemblies into the open position. A range of other methods and mechanisms for securing the idler assemblies in the closed position may alternatively be used.

Figures 61-65 depict an extendable support apparatus 500 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention which is again operable to support the belt of a belt conveyor. It should be appreciated that the function and operation of the apparatus 500 is mostly similar to the function and operation of the apparatus 400 described above. Therefore, aspect and features of the apparatus 500 which are similar to the equivalent aspects and features of the . apparatus 400 will be described only briefly or not at all.

As in the apparatus 400 described above, on both sides of the extendable frame in the apparatus 500 there are a number of extension segments each of which can slide/extend relative to the adjacent segment(s). As shown in the Figure 64, on either side of the extendable frame there is a first segment 501 , a second segment 502, a third segment 503, a fourth segment 504, a fifth segment 505 and a sixth segment 506. Therefore, when the two sides of the apparatus are considered together, there is a pair of first segments 401 , a pair of second segments 402, and so on. Also, the second segments 502 can be extended relative to the first segments 501 , the third segments 503 can be extended relative to the second segments 502, etc.

Like in the apparatus 400, the various extension segments in the apparatus 500 are supported on legs. Each of the legs incorporates height-adjustment means so that the length of the respective legs can be adjusted for correct leveling of the apparatus. This also allows the apparatus to be leveled on uneven ground etc. As for the apparatus 400 above, the height-adjustment means for the legs of the 43

extension segments in apparatus 500 may be of any form. For example, the height- adjustment means could be similar to the height-adjustment means described with reference to Figures 40-44. Alternatively, each of the legs could be individually telescopically extensible and securable at different extension lengths by clamps or pins, or the length of individual legs may be adjusted using a ratchet-type mechanism, etc. Other arrangements are also possible.

The apparatus 500 also incorporates further height-adjustment means in addition to the height-adjustment means of the individual legs described above. This height-adjustment means operates to adjust the height of the extension segments relative to the surface of the ground. Any means or mechanism suitable for performing this function may be used for this. In the apparatus 500 hydraulic lifting struts 513 are used. Thus, the hydraulic struts 513 can be used to adjust the height of the respective extension segments relative to the ground.

The apparatus 500 has a plurality of carry idler assemblies 522 and a plurality of return rollers 521. The carry idler assemblies 522 operate to support the upper carry-side of the conveyor belt, and the return rollers 521 function to support the lower return-side of the conveyor belt.

The idler assemblies 522 which extend between the second to sixth segments are not fixed relative to their extension segments. Rather, these idler assemblies are able to slide back and forth along their relevant segments (i.e. back and forth parallel to the apparatus' extension axis). The way in which the idler assemblies 522 are slidably mounted to their relevant second to sixth segments is generally the same as described in relation to the apparatus 400 above. Therefore, as for the apparatus 400 above, the ability of the idler assemblies 522 on the second to sixth segments to slide back and forth along their relevant segments enables them to become spaced apart when the apparatus is fully extended. It also allows them to be brought (or "stacked") together when the apparatus is retracted.

Each carry idler assembly 522 has an idler support frame 526 and three rotatable idler rollers 527 supported by the frame 526. On each idler assembly, the three idler rollers are arranged in generally the same way as in the apparatus 400 above. Also, as for the apparatus 400 above, the particular idler assembly 522 which is on the second segments 502 and which is closest to the first segments 501 (i.e. the idler assembly indicated 522' in Figure 65) is connected relative to the first segments 501 by a connecting link (not shown). The other idler assembly 522 on the second segment 502, and the idler assemblies 522 on the third to sixth segments, are also connected by such connecting links, each to the next in series along the apparatus. Therefore, starting in the retracted position, when the second segments 502 initially begin to extend relative to the first segments 501 , both of the idler assemblies 522 on the second segments will initially move (i.e. extend out) with the second segments 502. However, when the distance between the idler assembly 522' and the first segment 501 reaches the extent of the connecting link (i.e. the above-mentioned link which connects the idler assembly 522' relative to the first segments 501) the idler assembly 522' will be halted. The second segments 502 will, however, continue to extend out. In other words, the second segments 502 will effectively continue sliding out beneath the idler assembly 522' which is held in place by the connecting link. Then, when the next idler assembly 522 along (i.e. the other idler assembly on the second segments 502) reaches the extent of the connecting link between it and the assembly 522', that next idler assembly will also be halted, although again the second segments 502 will continue extending out until they reach their full extension. The same process occurs as the third segments 503 extend out relative to the second segments 502, and so on.

It will be appreciated that the process of extending the apparatus 500 just described is the same as the process of extending the apparatus 400 above. Therefore, it will also be understood that, just like the apparatus 400, the extension of the apparatus 500 could alternatively start at the other end. This was explained for the apparatus 400 and therefore need not be repeated for the apparatus 500.

In use (as was the case for the apparatus 400) the apparatus 500 can be connected to a mobile boot end (the mobile boot end is not shown in Figures 61-65). Therefore the movement of the mobile boot end causes the apparatus 500 to extend. Means will again be provided for connecting the apparatus to the mobile boot end. In the embodiment of apparatus 500, the connecting means comprises one or more pivoting hooks 515. One of the pivoting hooks 515 is visible in Figure 65. The mobile boot end therefore connects on this end of the apparatus (i.e. the end of the apparatus shown on the left-hand side in Figures 64 and 65). Hence, as the continuous mining machine progresses, the mobile boot end will move with it in the direction of arrow C (see Figures 64 and 65), and this will in turn cause the first segments 501 (together with the base of the apparatus 500 etc) to be pulled in that direction. As the first segments 501 etc are drawn along in this way, this causes the apparatus 500 to begin extending.

Naturally, if the mobile boot end were to move in the reverse direction to that 45

just described (i.e. the opposite direction to arrow C) this could cause the apparatus to commence retracting. However, as for the apparatus 400, it may often be necessary to retract the apparatus 500 from the extended configuration after the apparatus has been detached from the mobile boot end. To enable this, retraction means (not shown) may again be provided. The retraction means may be similar to those used for the apparatus 400. In any case, when the apparatus is retracted, the idler assemblies 522 on the second to sixth segments will come together as the segments retract relative to each other, and the idler assemblies 522 will ultimately become "stacked" together as shown in Figures 64 and 65 when the apparatus fully retracted.

The extendable support apparatus 500 may thus be used in the same way as the extendable support apparatus 200 shown in and described with reference to Figures 14-20. The extendable support apparatus 500 might also incorporate, for example, shifting means for shifting sideways, as well as other features shown and explained in Figures 1-46.

The extendable support apparatus 500 also provides means which enable it to be installed on a continuous belt of a belt conveyor without the need to disconnect, deconstruct, disassemble, break, or otherwise separate the continuous belt. The way in which this is achieved in the embodiment of apparatus 500 is illustrated in Figures 61 and 62. As shown in Figure 61 , the carry idler assemblies 522 are able to pivot so that they lift or tilt up (or one side thereof lifts or tilts up relative to the other). In this way, the apparatus can be "opened", and this allows the apparatus 500 to be installed on a continuous conveyor belt (or even on a moving conveyor belt) without breaking or disconnecting the belt. This is generally the same as for the apparatus 400 described above. In other words, when the carry idler assemblies 522 are in the open position, the apparatus 500 can be moved into position relative to the belt such that the lower return-side of the belt passes beneath the raised idler assemblies 522 but the upper carry-side of the belt passes over the top of the raised idler assemblies 522. In fact, in apparatus 500, when the return- side of the belt passes beneath the raised idler assemblies 522, the return-side of the belt is received on the belt guide 528. Then, the idler assemblies 422 can be moved back down into their "closed" position whereupon the belt guide 528 functions to position the return-side of the belt on the return rollers 421 , and the carry-side of the belt becomes positioned on, and supported by, the carry idler assemblies 522. Also, like in the apparatus 400, when the idler assemblies 522 of the apparatus 500 46

are in the closed position, both ends of each idler assembly 522 (i.e. the ends of the idler assembly on either side of the apparatus) will be supported by the relevant extension segment one on each side. This provides rigidity and prevents the idler assemblies from flexing or deflecting unduly under the weight of material on the conveyor belt, etc.

It should also be noted that, as was pointed out for the apparatus 400, not every one of the apparatuses 500 needs to connect directly to the mobile boot end. Indeed, a number of the apparatuses 500 may be connected together in series, with the first being connected to the mobile boot end (via pivoting hooks 515 as described above), and each subsequent apparatus 500 in the series being connected to the previous apparatus via the pivoting hooks 515.

In the apparatus 500, hydraulic lifting struts 529 are provided to raise the idler assemblies 522 from the closed position to the open position. That is, the lifting struts 529 function to raise the idler assemblies 522 from the closed position shown in Figure 62 into the slightly pivoted/raised position shown in Figure 61. In Figures 61 and 62, the hydraulic lifting struts 529 are shown as part of the extendable support apparatus 500. However, it should be recalled that the lifting means could alternatively be provided separately, or could be a detachable and detachable relative to the apparatus 500. This could enable the same lifting means to be used repeatedly in the installation of different apparatuses 500 (whether one at a time for multiple together at one time).

The way in which each idler assembly 522 on the second to sixth segments in apparatus 500 is pivotally mounted to the relevant segment is essentially the same as in apparatus 400 (recall also that the idler assemblies 522 on the first segments 501 cannot slide along the first segments).

In the embodiment of apparatus 400, a locking pin arrangement is provided which functions to prevent the idler assemblies 522 from pivoting from the closed position into the open position (unless the pins are removed). No equivalent mechanism is provided in the apparatus 500 because the idler assemblies 522 cannot move from the closed into the open position unless caused to do so by the struts 529. Hence, the struts 529 function to maintain the other assemblies 522 in the closed position, as well as functioning to move them into the open position.

Throughout the specification and the claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to apply the inclusion of the stated integer or group of integers but 47

not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that variations and modifications to the invention described herein will be apparent without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. The variations and modifications as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the invention as herein set forth.