Shovel loop excavator

Abstract

An excavator configured to excavate granular material from one location and deposit it in another location. The excavator includes a continuous shovel loop assembly comprising a plurality of shovels operatively connected together in series along a kinematic axis. Each shovel comprises a blade portion extending towards a driven side of said kinematic axis, a bucket portion located on a driving side of said kinematic axis, and two laterally spaced side wall panels parallel to the kinematic axis. The loop assembly is configured to rotate using driving means. A casing covers the loop assembly. An entrance port is defined at one end of said casing, and an ejection port is defined at another end of said casing, such that, when in use, granular material is collected by the loop assembly at the entrance port, transported inside the casing along a length of the excavator, and deposited through the ejection port.

Description

SHOVEL LOOP EXCAVATORFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an excavator; specifically, the present invention relates to a shovel loop excavator that can be used to excavate granular materials and eject said granular materials in a different location.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Excavators and power diggers are known, and have been for many years. For example, US 766,584 (BATTEY) discloses a relatively cumbersome excavating machine; and US 2,890,532 (ELLISON) discloses a manual power digger for a single operator. In addition, portable excavators and power diggers are known, as well as automatic handheld shovels. For example, US 3,763,581 (WOLFSTON) discloses a hand operated endless trencher for small trench excavation; US 3,953,931 (LEYRAT) discloses an excavator with buckets mounted on a jib; US 3,964,182 (POMERET et al.) discloses a mechanical shovel including a harness to be carried by an operator; US 3,975,843 (ELLISON) discloses a power digging tool for a single operator; and US10309160B1 (GOREN) discloses an automatic handheld shovel with an auger.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an excavator configured to excavate granular material from one location and deposit it in another location, the excavator comprising: a continuous shovel loop assembly comprising a plurality of shovels operatively connected together in series along a kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly, wherein each shovel comprises a blade portion extending towards a driven side of said kinematic axis, a bucket portion located on a driving side of said kinematic axis, and two laterally spaced side wall panels parallel to the kinematic axis and defining a width of each shovel, wherein the continuous shovel loop is configured to rotate using driving means, such that each shovel moves along said kinematic axis; a casing configured to at least partially cover the continuous shovel loop assembly, wherein an entrance port is defined at one end of said casing, and an ejection port is defined at another end of said casing, such that, when in use, granular material is collected by the continuous shovel loop assembly at the entrance port, transported inside the casing along a length of the excavator, and deposited through the ejection port.

[0004] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided:1. An excavator configured to excavate granular material from one location and deposit it in another location, said excavator comprising: a continuous shovel loop assembly comprising a plurality of shovels operatively connected together in series along a kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly, wherein each shovel comprises a blade portion extending towards a driven side of said kinematic axis, a bucket portion located on a driving side of said kinematic axis, and two laterally spaced side wall panels parallel to the kinematic axis and defining awidth of each shovel, and wherein the continuous shovel loop assembly is configured to rotate using driving means, such that each shovel moves along said kinematic axis; and a casing configured to at least partially cover the continuous shovel loop assembly, wherein an entrance port is defined at one end of said casing, and an ejection port is defined at another end of said casing, such that, when in use, granular material is collected by the continuous shovel loop assembly at the entrance port, transported inside the casing along a length of the excavator, and deposited through the ejection port.2. The excavator of item 1, wherein each blade portion comprises a tooth portion at a driven end of the blade portion.3. The excavator of item 2, wherein the tooth portion of each blade portion is configured for specific granular material.4. The excavator of item 2 or 3, wherein each tooth portion is removable, such that it can be replaced.5. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the blade portion only extends slightly farther than the side wall panels in the driven direction.6. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the blade portions extend farther than the side wall panels in the driven direction by a few centimeters (for example, by between about 1 cm and about 5 cm, or by about 1 cm, by about 2 cm, by about 3 cm, by about 4 cm, or by about 5 cm).7. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 6, wherein each bucket portion is integrally connected to its corresponding blade portion and side wall panels.8. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 7, wherein each shovel is pivotably connected to an adjacent shovel, such that all the shovels are pivotably connected together in series.9. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 8, wherein each shovel is pivotably connected to an adjacent shovel by pivotably connecting the end of a bucket portion of each shovel to the end of the blade portion closer to the driving side of an adjacent shovel.10. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the plurality of shovels are connected together using a plurality of elongated pins.11 . The excavator of item 10, wherein each elongated pin passes through a corresponding blade portion of one shovel and the end of a bucket portion of an adjacent shovel, such that the elongated pin defines an axis around which the shovels pivot with respect to each other.12. The excavator of item 10 or 11, wherein each elongated pin passes through the two laterally spaced side wall panels defining the width of each shovel.13. The excavator of any one of items 10 to 12, wherein rubber gaskets are implemented to prevent dust from reaching the elongated pins when the excavator is in use.The excavator of any one of items 10 to 13, wherein the casing comprises two channels, each configured to receive an end of the elongated pins such that, when the excavator is in use, the elongated pins travel along the channels. The excavator of item 14, wherein, when viewed from the side, the channels are stadium-shaped or discorectangle-shaped. The excavator of item 14 or 15, wherein the casing is configured such that the weight of the elongated pins and therefore the weight of the continuous shovel loop assembly is at least partially supported by the channels, such that the channels bear some of the stress experienced by the continuous shovel loop assembly when it is in use. The excavator of any one of items 14 to 16, wherein the casing can further comprise guide rails which can define the channels. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 17, wherein the driving means comprise an end tensioner wheel, preferably located at the back end of the continuous shovel loop assembly and a driving wheel, preferably located at the front end of the continuous shovel loop assembly, the driving wheel configured to be driven by a motor system such that the driving wheel is rotated by the motor system, thereby causing the continuous shovel loop assembly to rotate. The excavator of item 18, wherein the motor system is configured to drive the driving wheel at a variable speed or a constant speed and / or is configured to be controlled by an instrumentation system. The excavator of item 18 or 19, wherein the motor in the motor system is an AC motor; a DC motor; or a gas motor. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 20, wherein the motor system comprises a transmission system (torque shaft attachment) powered by an external motor. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 20, wherein the motor in the motor system is an internal motor powered by a supply energy system located on the casing. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 20, wherein the motor in the motor system is an external motor and the motor system comprises a transmission system (such as a torque shaft attachment) in order to drive the driving wheel using said external motor source. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 23, wherein driving of the continuous shovel loop assembly is done using a gear, a chain, a belt, or a wheel motor for “direct driving”. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 24, wherein the driving wheel comprises a plurality of connecting bars configured to be received in a recess defined by an underside of each shovel when said shovel is in contact with the driving wheel. The excavator of item 25, wherein each connecting bar comprises a rubber covering.The excavator of item 25 or 26, wherein the connecting bars are configured to engage with the recess defined by the underside of each shovel close to the driven end of the shovel. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 27, wherein the end tensioner wheel comprises connecting bars. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 28, wherein the motor system is configured to reverse the direction of transmission, meaning it is able to reverse the direction of the continuous shovel loop assembly. The excavator of any one of items 18 to 29, wherein each shovel engages with the driving wheel close to a driven end of the shovel. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 30, wherein opposing surfaces of adjacent blade portions diverge away from each other in the driven direction. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 31 , wherein opposing inner surfaces of each bucket portion diverge away from each other as they approach the driven end of the continuous shovel loop assembly. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 32, wherein the side wall panels partially overlap with adjacent side wall panels, thereby allowing the side wall panels to slidably move relative to each other as the continuous shovel loop assembly rotates, without creating unwanted gaps between them. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 33, wherein the excavator of the present invention comprises a transport tunnel defined by the casing along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly. The excavator (100) of any one of items 1 to 34, wherein the ejection port of the casing allows the ejection of the granular material to be directed according to the user's instantaneous preferences, preferably using an adjustable nozzle or by the user moving the excavator to change the direction in which the ejection port is facing. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 35, wherein the driven edge of each side wall panel comprises teeth. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 36, wherein the excavator further comprises a mechanism configured to shake each shovel as it passes by the ejection port, positioned and configured so as to help expel the granular material from the bucket. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 37, wherein the granular material is dirt, clay, silt, soil, gravel, and sand (including coarse sand, medium sand, and fine sand). The excavator of any one of items 1 to 38, wherein the granular material is already excavated material, non-excavated material, or a mixture of both. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 39, wherein the granular material comprises minerals only, or includes organic materials.The excavator of any one of items 1 to 40, wherein the volume fraction of the granular material with respect to air is between 0.50 and 0.90, and / or the granular material has a particle size of between 0.02 and 7.5 cm in diameter or length. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 41 , wherein the granular material has a volume fraction with respect to air of at least about 0.50, at least about 0.55, at least about 0.60; or at least about 0.65; and / or at most about 0.90, at most about 0.80; at most about 0.75, or at most about 0.70. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 42, wherein the granular material has a diameter or a length of at least about 0.02 cm, at least about 0.5 cm, at least about 0.1 cm; at least about 0.5 cm or at least about 1 cm; and / or at most about 7.5 cm, at most about 5 cm, or at most about 2.5 cm. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 43, wherein the entrance port (1 b) is at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the excavator, preferably between 20-70 degrees, more preferably between 30-60 degrees, most preferably about 45 degrees. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 44, wherein the casing (1 a) further comprises an ejector system. The excavator of item 45, wherein the ejector system comprises a bellows system adjacent to the ejection port configured to trap a gas as said gas travels through the casing and then to expel this gas towards each shovel as said shovel passes near the ejection port, and wherein a stop is placed and configured to force rapid compression of the bellows system, such that the gas passes through the bucket portion of the shovel through judiciously sized and positioned holes in the bucket portion to help expel the granular material from the bucket. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 46, wherein the ejection port comprises an ejection nozzle. The excavator of item 47, wherein the direction of the ejection nozzle is adjustable, so as to allow the user to adjust the direction in which the granular material is ejected from the excavator relatively quickly and easily, according to the user’s instantaneous preference. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 48, wherein the excavator is a man-portable excavator. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 49, wherein the casing further comprises one or more handles configured such that the excavator is man-portable. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 50, wherein the casing comprises a supporting handle and an operating handle. The excavator of item 51 , wherein the operating handle integrates elements of an instrumentation system, such as an on / off switch. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 52, wherein the casing comprises an attachment system. The excavator of item 53, wherein the attachment system comprises a link to another device at one or more points.The excavator of item 54, wherein the other device is a mechanical shovel. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 55, wherein the casing further comprises one or more support bases, such that at least a portion of the weight of the excavator can be supported by the ground, even when the excavator is being used. The excavator of item 56, wherein at least one of the one or more support bases of the excavator is an anti-kickback support base configured to rest on the ground when the excavator is in use. The excavator of item 56 or 57, wherein at least one of the one or more support bases of the excavator further comprises an anti-rollback wheel configured to prevent the excavator from unwantedly moving backwards. The excavator of any one of items 56 to 58, wherein at least one of the one or more support bases of the excavator further comprises at least one self-propelled wheel configured to rest on the ground. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 59, wherein the casing further comprises an instrumentation system. The excavator of item 60, wherein the instrumentation system is controlled, remotely controlled, or robotic. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 61 , wherein the excavator further comprises one or more detectors, preferably one or more metal detectors, more preferably copper detectors. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 62, wherein the excavator further comprises a mechanism for heating the excavator. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 63, wherein the excavator further comprises dust strips configured to prevent the granular material from reaching unwanted areas of the excavator. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 64, wherein the excavator is configured and dimensioned to deposit the granular material at least about 3 metres, preferably about 3 metres, from where the granular material is excavated. The excavator of any one of items 1 to 65, wherein the excavator further comprises an articulating guide proportional in size to the size of the entrance, configured to prevent objects that are too large from entering and blocking the device, and / or to prevent granular material from being ejected from the excavator prior to entering the transport tunnel. A replaceable tooth portion as defined in item 4. A continuous shovel loop assembly as defined in any one of items 1 to 66. A casing as defined in any one of items 1 to 66.70. A vehicle comprising a boom or arm and the excavator of any one of items 1 to 66, wherein the excavator is configured to be mounted on the boom or arm.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a right side view of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention being used by a user.

[0006] Figure 2 is a right side view of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention being used by a user.

[0007] Figure 3 is an exploded isometric view of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 4 is an isometric view of a portion of a continuous shovel loop assembly of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 5 is a right cross-sectional side view of the portion of the continuous shovel loop assembly of Figure 4.

[0010] Figure 6 is an isometric view of a portion of a continuous shovel loop assembly of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 7 is an exploded isometric view of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 8 is an isometric view of a portion of a continuous shovel loop assembly of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 9 is a right cross-sectional side view of the portion of the excavator shown in Figure 8.

[0014] Figure 10 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 11 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 12 is a right side view of a back portion of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 13 is a right cross-sectional side view of a portion of a casing of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 14 is an isometric view of guide rails of an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Referring first to Figure 1 , as well as Figures 2-14, an excavator, generally referred to using the reference numeral 100, will be described.

[0020] As shown for example in Figure 1, this excavator 100 is configured to excavate granular material from one location and deposit it in another location. The excavator 100 includes: a continuous shovel loop assembly 5 comprising a plurality of shovels operatively connected together in series along a kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, wherein each shovel comprises a blade portion 11 extending towards a driven side of said kinematic axis, a bucket portion 10 located on a driving side of said kinematic axis, and two laterally spaced side wall panels 9 parallel to the kinematic axis and defining a width of each shovel, and wherein the continuous shovel loop is configured to rotate using driving means, such that each shovel moves along said kinematic axis; and a casing 1a configured to at least partially cover the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, wherein an entrance port 1 b is defined at one end of said casing 1 a, and an ejection port 1 c is defined at another end of said casing 1 a, such that, when in use, granular material is collected by the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 at the entrance port 1 b, transported inside the casing 1 a along a length of the excavator 100, and deposited through the ejection port 1c.

[0021] As mentioned above, the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 comprises a plurality of shovels connected in series along a kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. As shown for example in Figure 4, each shovel comprises a blade portion 11 extending along a width of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 and extending outward towards the driven side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. When in use, the blade portion 11 is moved continuously along the kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, such that each blade portion 11 passes from a front end to a back end along a top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 before returning to the front end along a bottom side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5.

[0022] During use of the excavator 100, each blade portion 11 engages with the granular material as it passes the front end of the excavator 100 (specifically, as it passes the entrance port 1 b), thereby collecting the granular material in the shovel. As the blade portion 11 is transported to the top surface of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 and to the back end thereof, the collected granular material collects in that blade portion 1 Ts corresponding bucket portion 10, located at a driving end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. For clarity, in embodiments, if a larger quantity of granular material is collected in the shovel, then not only can the collected granular material collect in said shovel’s bucket portion 10, but it may also collect in the space defined by two adjacent blade portions 11 . As can be seen in Figure 4, each shovel comprises two side wall panels 9 on either side thereof; this prevents the granular material from escaping while it is being transported along the continuous shovel loop assembly 5.

[0023] In preferred embodiments, each blade portion 11 comprises a tooth portion 14 at a driven end of the blade portion 11 (as shown in Figure 10).

[0024] In embodiments, the blade portion 11 only extends slightly farther than the side wall panels 9 in the driven direction. In embodiments, the blade portions 11 extend farther than the side wall panels 9 in the driven direction by a few centimeters (for example, by between about 1 cm and about 5 cm, or by about 1 cm, by about 2 cm, by about 3 cm, by about 4 cm, or by about 5 cm); the skilled person would understand that the length of the blade portions 11 can vary depending on the needs of the user. For example, the blade portions 11 can extend farther than the side wall panels 9 in the driven direction by more than 5 cm, especially when the excavator 100 is configured to be larger in size and / or mounted on a boom or arm of a vehicle, such as a truck or an excavator. In embodiments, the blade portions11 extend farther than the side wall panels 9 in the driven direction by a distance approximate to the length of each tooth portion (if present).

[0025] In embodiments, each bucket portion 10 is integrally connected to its corresponding blade portion 11 and side wall panels 9 (for example, they are made of one piece of metal (such as stainless steel), or whatever material is used, that has been folded).

[0026] In embodiments, as shown for example in Figure 5, each shovel is pivotably connected to an adjacent shovel, such that all the shovels are pivotably connected together in series. In preferred embodiments, this is accomplished by pivotably connecting the end of a bucket portion 10 of each shovel to the end of the blade portion 11 closer to the driving side of an adjacent shovel (as shown in Figure 5). This allows the shovels to slightly pivot with respect to each other (for example, by about 30 degrees) as the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 rotates.

[0027] In embodiments, the shovels are connected together using a plurality of elongated pins 12 (see Figures 4 and 5, for example). In embodiments, each elongated pin 12 passes through a corresponding blade portion 11 of one shovel and the end of a bucket portion 10 of an adjacent shovel (as shown in Figure 5, for example), such that the elongated pin 12 defines the axis around which the shovels pivot with respect to each other, as shown for example in Figure 5.

[0028] In preferred embodiments, and as shown for example in Figures 10 and 11, each elongated pin 12 comprises a covering 12’ (such as a steel bushing) at each end thereof, which can function as bearings and help keep the pins12 maintained in channels 16 as defined below.

[0029] In embodiments, rubber gaskets 15 can be implemented to prevent dust from reaching the elongated pins 12 when the excavator 100 is in use, as shown for example in Figure 9.

[0030] In preferred embodiments, the casing comprises two channels 16, each configured to receive an end of the elongated pins 12, as shown in Figure 10. Each of these channels 16 receives an end of each elongated pin 12, such that, when the excavator 100 is in use, the elongated pins travel along the channels 16. This would mean that the channels 16 would be shaped to correspond to the path along which the elongated pins 12 would travel when the excavator 100 is in use. Typically, this would mean that, when viewed from the side, the channels 16 would be stadiumshaped or discorectangle-shaped. In embodiments, the casing 1 a is configured such that the weight of the elongated pins 12 (and therefore the weight of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5) is at least partially supported by the channels 16, such that the channels 16 bear some of the stress experienced by the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 when it is in use. Naturally, the casing 1a should be durable enough to withstand use of the excavator 100.

[0031] In embodiments, the casing can further comprise guide rails 19 which can partially define the channels 16, as shown for example in Figure 3.

[0032] As stated, the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, as partially shown in Figure 4, is configured to be rotated using driving means. In embodiments, said driving means comprise an end tensioner wheel 6a and a driving wheel 6b, the driving wheel 6b configured to be driven by a motor system 8. In this embodiment, the driving wheel 6b (preferablylocated at the front end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5) is rotated by the motor system 8, thereby causing the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 to rotate, with the end tensioner wheel 6a preferably located at the back end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. In such embodiments, when the excavator 100 is in use, each shovel collects granular material while going around the driving wheel 6b, and then deposits said granular material as it passes around the end tensioner wheel 6a. In embodiments, a certain level of tension can be maintained in the tensioner wheel 6a using, for example, adjustable screws, or a spring. This can help maintain tension in the tensioner wheel 6a even after the excavator has been in use for a while.

[0033] In embodiments, the motor system 8 is configured to drive the driving wheel 6b at a variable speed or a constant speed and / or is configured to be controlled by an instrumentation system 3. The skilled person would understand that a number of driving means are possible (for example, there can be multiple driving wheels, each being powered by a different or the same motor system 8), and that what matters is that the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 receives sufficient power to rotate, while collecting, transporting, and ejecting granular material.

[0034] In embodiments comprising the driving wheel 6b located at the front end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 and the tensioner wheel 6a located at the back end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, each shovel, as it moves along the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, alternates in function between digging and ejecting the granular material, depending on whether or not it is in contact with the driving wheel 6b or the tensioner wheel 6a during each turn along the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. When each shovel is in direct contact with driving wheel 6b, the driving energy received from the gear system 7 is directly transmitted to a corresponding shovel, which in turn transmits it to the blade portion 11 , which uses said driving energy when in contact with the granular material to excavate said granular material. When each shovel is not in direct contact with driving wheel 6b, the driving energy received from the gear system 7 and passing through the driving wheel 6b is transmitted to other shovels, thereby rotating the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, such that each shovel also passes around the end tensioner wheel 6a (allowing the granular material to be ejected), before returning back to the driving wheel 6b along an underside of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5.

[0035] The motor system 8 used by the excavator 100 can comprise any suitable motor used in the art. For example, the motor can be an AC motor; a DC motor; a hydraulic motor; or a gas motor.

[0036] In embodiments, the motor system 8 comprises a transmission system (torque shaft attachment) powered by an external motor.

[0037] In embodiments comprising an internal motor, the motor can be powered by a battery or electrical plug. In embodiments, the motor can be powered by a supply energy system 4 located on the casing 1 a, as shown in Figure 3. Said supply energy system 4 can comprise a battery sufficient to power the excavator 100. In embodiments comprising an external motor, the motor system 8 can comprise a transmission system (such as a torque shaft attachment) in order to drive the driving wheel 6b using said external motor source.

[0038] The driving of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 (as in, the manner in which the energy of the motor is transmitted to the driving wheel 6b), could be done using a gear, a chain, a belt, or a wheel motor for “direct driving”, which would mean that the gear system 7 and the motor system 8 would be integrated into the driving wheel 6b.

[0039] In embodiments, the driving energy received from gear system 7 is directly transmitted to each blade portion 11 through the driving wheel 6b, preferably in that, as shown for example in Figures 4 and 5, as well as in the embodiment of Figure 6, the elongated pins 12 are configured to be received in notches of the driving wheel 6b when said elongated pin’s corresponding shovel is in contact with the driving wheel 6b. Specifically, in such embodiments, each elongated pin 12 is dimensioned and configured to be received in a notch of the driving wheel 6b, such that the elongated pin 12 is received inside one of said notches as said elongated pin’s corresponding shovel is going around the driving wheel 6b. This means that, as the driving wheel 6b is turned, it will directly drive any shovels whose elongated pin 12 is received in a notch of the driving wheel 6b, thereby causing said shovel to move around the driving wheel 6b (and thereby driving the continuous shovel loop assembly 5), whereupon the elongated pin 12 is eventually released from the notch in question.

[0040] In such embodiments, the driving wheel 6b preferably comprises a plurality of notches, such that it can engage with and directly drive multiple shovels at once. By doing this continuously, the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 is driven and rotated, meaning the shovels continuously move along the kinematic axis. Preferably, each notch on one side of the driving wheel 6b has a corresponding notch on the other side thereof, such that both notches receive the same elongated pin 12 simultaneously. Further, in embodiments, and as shown in Figures 13 and 14, the guide rails 19 can comprise transfer bases 20. This allows for a smoother transfer of each shovel as it passes around the channels, specifically before and after it engages with the driving wheel 6b, thereby reducing vibrations.

[0041] The skilled person would understand that the driving energy received from gear system 7 can be directly transmitted to each blade portion 11 through the driving wheel 6b using other configurations. For example, in an alternate embodiment of the excavator 100 of the present invention, the driving wheel 6b comprises a plurality of connecting bars 13 configured to be received in a recess defined by an underside of each shovel (as shown in Figures 8 and 9) when said shovel is in contact with the driving wheel 6b. Specifically, in such embodiments, each connecting bar 13 is dimensioned and configured to be received in a recess defined by an underside of each shovel, such that the connecting bar 13 is received inside a recess as the corresponding shovel is going around the driving wheel 6b. This means that, as the driving wheel 6b is turned, it will directly drive any shovels whose recess is currently receiving a connecting bar 13 of the driving wheel 6b, thereby causing said shovel to move around the driving wheel 6b (and thereby driving the continuous shovel loop assembly 5), whereupon the connecting bar 13 is eventually released from the recess in question (as shown in Figure 9). By doing this continuously, the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 is driven and rotated, meaning the shovels continuously move along the kinematic axis.

[0042] In preferred embodiments, each connecting bar comprises a rubber covering 13’ (as shown in Figure 9), which can function as bearings and can also help prevent unwanted vibrations of the driving wheel 6b when the excavator 100 is in use.

[0043] In embodiments, the end tensioner wheel 6a comprises connecting bars (as shown in Figure 7, for example), which can be the same as the connecting bars 13 of the driving wheel 6b.

[0044] In embodiments, and as shown for example in Figure 4, the side wall panels 9 partially overlap with adjacent side wall panels 9. In Figure 4, for example, the “inside” surface (the surface facing the continuous shovel loop assembly 5) of one side wall panel 9 partially overlaps with the “outer” surface (the surface facing away from the continuous shovel loop assembly 5) of an adjacent side wall panel 9. This allows the side wall panels 9 to slidably move relative to each other as the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 rotates, without creating unwanted gaps between them. In embodiments comprising elongated pins 12, it is preferable that each elongated pin 12 passes through the two laterally spaced side wall panels 9 defining the width of each shovel.

[0045] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 10, the excavator 100 of the present invention comprises a transport tunnel 1e defined by the casing along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. This tunnel will help prevent granular material from being flung out of the excavator as it is being transported therethrough until it is ejected through the ejection port 1c (even when the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 is rotating at high speeds). This mechanism is known as the “anti-projection” feature of the excavator 100 of the present invention, as it allows the granular material to be stabilized (by preventing its unwanted exit from the excavator) before ejecting it through the ejection port 1c. Also, in preferred embodiments, the ejection port 1c of the casing 1 a allows the ejection of the granular material to be directed according to the user's instantaneous preferences (this can be done using an adjustable nozzle, or by the user moving the excavator to change the direction in which the ejection port 1c is facing).

[0046] In preferred embodiments, opposing surfaces of adjacent blade portions 11 diverge away from each other in the driven direction. This means that opposing surfaces of adjacent blade portions 11 will be closer together at the driving end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, and further away from each other at the driven end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. Similarly, in preferred embodiments, opposing inner surfaces of each bucket portion 10 diverge away from each other as they approach the driven end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. Typically, as the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 rotates, the blade portions 11 will be farther apart as they rotate around the driving wheel 6b, and closer together as they move along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5; this is shown in Figure 5, where Xi is greater than X2. Accordingly, two adjacent blade portions 11 will “squeeze” any granular material collected therebetween as said two adjacent blade portions 11 move towards the top surface of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. By having opposing surfaces of adjacent blade portions 11 diverge away from each other in the driven direction and opposing inner surfaces of the same bucket portion 10 diverge away from each other in the driven direction, this “squeezing” action merely pushes the collected granular material outward (in the direction of the driven end). This prevents unwanted pinching of the granular material, and helps prevent the excavator 100 from getting blocked. In addition, this increases the likelihood that granular material that is too large for the excavator will be “pushed out” of the shovel before said shovel enters transport tunnel 1 e, further reducing the likelihood that the excavator will become blocked. This mechanism is known as the “anti-breakage” feature of the excavator 100 of the present invention.

[0047] Conversely, if the opposing surfaces of adjacent blade portions 11 and opposing inner surfaces of the same bucket portion 10 converged towards each other in the driven direction, or remained parallel to each other, then there would be a risk that the "squeezing” action described above would break, damage, or block the machine, as the granular material would become trapped, preventing movement of the blade portions 11 in question.

[0048] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 10, while each side wall panel 9 is generally parallel to the kinematic axis, said side wall panels 9 can extend outwardly at an angle, such that opposing surfaces of two laterally spaced side wall panels 9 diverge away from each other in the driven direction.

[0049] In preferred embodiments, each shovel engages with the driving wheel 6b close to the driven end of the shovel. As mentioned, as the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 rotates, the blade portions 11 will be farther apart as they rotate around the driving wheel 6b, and closer together as they move along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5; this is shown in Figure 5, where Xi is greater than X2. However, when the shovel engages with the driving wheel 6b close to the driven end of the shovel, this increases the length of the arc travelled by each shovel as it goes from a bottom side to a top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, thereby reducing the change in distance between adjacent blade portions 11 as they rotate around the driving wheel 6b to the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. This means that the difference between Xi and X2 is reduced, which further reduces the “squeezing” action described above, which reduces the likelihood that the machine will become broken, damaged, or blocked during use.

[0050] This can be accomplished in several manners. In embodiments where elongated pins 12 are used to engage the shovel with the driving wheel 6b via notches therein (as mentioned above, and as shown in Figure 5), then each blade portion 11 should not extend far beyond the elongated pins 12 in the driven direction. This also causes the blade portion 11 (or the tooth portion thereof, if present) to experience less leverage (and therefor less stress) upon impact with the granular material, compared to if the blade portion 11 extended a greater distance outward in the driven direction relative to where the shovel engages with the driving wheel 6b.

[0051] Alternatively, if the driving wheel 6b comprises a plurality of connecting bars 13 configured to be received in a recess defined by an underside of each shovel when said shovel is in contact with the driving wheel 6b (as defined above, and as shown in Figure 9), said connecting bars 13 can be configured to engage with the recess defined by the underside of each shovel close to the driven end of the shovel. This also causes the blade portion 11 (or the tooth portion thereof, if present) to experience less leverage (and therefor less stress) upon impact with the granular material, compared to if the blade portion 11 extended a greater distance outward in the driven direction relative to where the shovel engages with the driving wheel 6b, as would be the case if chains connected to the driving end of the bucket portions 10 were used instead of elongated pins 12, for example.

[0052] It is important to note that, in general, the closer the point of engagement between each shovel and the driving wheel 6b is to the driven end of said shovel (meaning the greater the length of the arc travelled by each shovel as it goes from the bottom side to the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5), the larger the size of thecontinuous shovel loop assembly 5. Accordingly, this parameter of the excavator 100 may need to be balanced with the user’s desire for a smaller, more portable excavator.

[0053] In embodiments, the gear system 7 further comprises “torque absorber” (or a torque limiter) protection.

[0054] In preferred embodiments, the motor system 8 is able to reverse the direction of transmission, meaning it would be able to reverse the direction of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. This would allow the user to unblock the device, if necessary.

[0055] In embodiments, the tooth portion 14 (if present) of each blade portion 11 is configured for specific granular material. In addition, in embodiments, each tooth portion is removable, such that it can be replaced, for example, if it breaks, or if different teeth are required for different granular material.

[0056] In embodiments, the driven edge of each side wall panel 9 can comprise teeth.

[0057] In embodiments, one or more of the bucket portions 10 is configured (for example, shaped) to prevent certain materials like clay from sticking thereto (not shown in the figures).

[0058] In embodiments, the excavator 100 can further comprise a mechanism configured to shake each shovel as it passes by the ejection port 1c (for example, as it passes around the tensioner wheel 6a), positioned and configured so as to help expel the granular material from the bucket (not shown in the figures).

[0059] In embodiments, each shovel ejects granular material from both a driven side and a driving side thereof.

[0060] In embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention is used to poke, push and dislodge unexcavated granular materials, and in the same continuous rotating movement, capture, lift and throw loose granular materials within a “hand shoveling location” range (meaning a distance similar to the distance one would displace said granular material if they were using a conventional hand shovel).

[0061] In embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention is capable of collecting and transporting a wide variety of granular materials, such as dirt, clay, silt, soil, gravel, and sand (including coarse sand, medium sand, and fine sand). The granular material may be already excavated material, non-excavated material, or a mixture of both. It may comprise minerals only, or it may include organic materials. In embodiments, the volume fraction of the granular material with respect to air (or “pores”) is between 0.50 and 0.90, and / or the granular material has a particle size of between 0.02 and 7.5 cm in diameter or length. In embodiments, the granular material has a volume fraction with respect to air of at least about 0.50, at least about 0.55, at least about 0.60; or at least about 0.65; and / or at most about 0.90, at most about 0.80; at most about 0.75, or at most about 0.70. In embodiments, the granular material has a diameter or a length of at least about 0.02 cm, at least about 0.5 cm, at least about 0.1 cm; at least about 0.5 cm or at least about 1 cm; and / or at most about 7.5 cm, at most about 5 cm, or at most about 2.5 cm.

[0062] The casing 1 a of the excavator 100 is intended to at least partially cover the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. Naturally, the casing 1 a should be dimensioned so as not to impede or block the rotation of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. The entrance port 1 b should be dimensioned and configured so as to allow the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 to dig into the granular material. Accordingly, and as shown in Figure 1, the blade portion 11 of eachshovel should extend slightly beyond the entrance port 1b of the casing 1 a as it passes along the entrance port 1 b, so as to allow said blade portion 11 to engage with the granular material when the entrance port 1b of the excavator 100 is pressed against the granular material.

[0063] In preferred embodiments, the casing should sufficiently cover enough of the excavator 100 to prevent the granular material from escaping the excavator while it is being transported therethrough during use. In preferred embodiments, the casing defines a transport tunnel 1e along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, such that it covers the shovels as they transport the granular material along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 while the excavator 100 is in use.

[0064] The entrance port 1b should also be positioned and configured such that it is relatively easy to bring it into contact with the granular material to be excavated. As shown in Figure 1 , in embodiments, the entrance port 1 b can be at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the excavator 100, preferably between 20-70 degrees, more preferably between 30-60 degrees, most preferably about 45 degrees.

[0065] Similarly, the ejection port 1c of the casing 1 a should be dimensioned and positioned so as to cause the granular material carried by the shovels to be ejected from the excavator 100 as the shovels pass along the ejection port 1c.

[0066] In embodiments, the casing 1a further comprises an ejector system. The ejector system can be any means that will forcefully eject the granular material from the ejection port 1c. In embodiments, the ejector system comprises a bellows system adjacent to the ejection port 1c configured to trap a gas as said gas travels through the casing 1 a and then to expel this gas towards each shovel as said shovel passes near the ejection port 1c (for example, as each shovel passes around the tensioner wheel 6a). A stop can be placed and configured to force rapid compression of the bellows system, such that the gas passes through the bucket portion 10 of the shovel through judiciously sized and positioned holes in the bucket portion 10 to help expel the granular material from the bucket (not shown on the figures). This can be advantageous, as it will allow the excavator 100 to better expel the granular material from the ejection port 1c (as opposed to simply relying on the movement of the shovels and gravity, for example).

[0067] In addition, as mentioned previously, and as shown in Figure 12, the ejection port 1c can comprise an ejection nozzle. In preferred embodiments, the direction of the ejection nozzle is adjustable, so as to allow the user to adjust the direction in which the granular material is ejected from the excavator 100 relatively quickly and easily, according to the user’s instantaneous preference.

[0068] In preferred embodiments, the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 is almost completely covered by the casing 1 a, save for the entrance port 1 b and the ejection port 1c of the casing 1a.

[0069] In embodiments, the excavator 100 is a man-portable excavator, meaning it can be used, controlled, and transported by a singled person, as shown for example in Figure 1. In such an embodiment, the excavator 100 should be dimensioned and weighted so as to facilitate being carried by a single person. To make the excavator 100 portable, light, and easy to handle, its design can be minimalist and it is preferable to keep the number, size, and weight of the mechanical parts to a minimum.

[0070] In preferred embodiments, the casing 1 a further comprises one or more handles configured such that the excavator 100 is man-portable, for example as shown in Figure 1. In preferred embodiments, the casing 1 a can comprise a supporting handle 2a and an operating handle 2b, as shown for example in Figure 1 . In embodiments, the weight of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 is balanced near the center of the supporting handle 2a, like a power saw. In embodiments, the operating handle 2b could integrate elements of the instrumentation system 3 (if present), such as an on / off switch. In embodiments, the position of one or both of the supporting handle 2a or the operating handle 2b along the length of the excavator 100 is adjustable.

[0071] In embodiments, the casing 1a comprises an attachment system. In embodiments, this attachment system comprises a link to another device at one or more points. This other device could comprise two or more self-propelled mechanisms (not shown in the figures). In embodiments, the excavator can comprise a mechanism configured to allow said another device to be attached thereto and towed (not shown). Moreover, the link to the other device can be articulatable on one or more axes (not shown in the figures). In embodiments, this other device is a mechanical shovel.

[0072] In embodiments, the casing 1a comprises one or more support bases 1d, such that at least a portion of the weight of the excavator 100 can be supported by the ground, even when the excavator 100 is being used.

[0073] In embodiments, at least one of the one or more support bases 1d of the excavator 100 is an anti-kickback support base 1d configured to rest on the ground when the excavator 100 is in use.

[0074] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 2, at least one of the one or more support bases 1d of excavator 100 can further comprise a wheel, for example a free wheel, or an anti-rollback wheel configured to prevent the excavator 100 from unwantedly moving backwards.

[0075] In embodiments, at least one of the one or more support bases 1d of the excavator 100 can further comprise at least one self-propelled wheel configured to rest on the ground.

[0076] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 2, at least one of the one or more support bases 1d of the excavator 100 is adjustable in height, and in terms of distance from the centre of the excavator 100 along the longitudinal axis thereof.

[0077] In embodiments, at least one of the one or more support bases 1d of the excavator 100 is a springback support base.

[0078] In embodiments, the instrumentation system 3 is controlled, remotely controlled, or robotic (not shown in the figures). Furthermore, in embodiments, said instrumentation system 3 can be controlled or remotely controlled in part by artificial intelligence (not shown in the figures).

[0079] In embodiments, the excavator 100 can further comprise one or more detectors (not shown in the figures).

[0080] In embodiments, the excavator 100 can further comprise one or more metal detectors, preferably copper detectors. (Not shown in the figures).

[0081] In embodiments, the instrumentation system 3 can be laser guided (not shown in the figures).

[0082] In embodiments, the excavator 100 can further comprise a mechanism for heating the excavator 100 so as to allow the excavator 100 to work in ambient temperatures of slightly below 0°C (not shown in the figures).

[0083] In embodiments, if there is no heating source for the excavator 100, use in a minimum of 0°C ambient temperature is preferable; otherwise, ice could block the device.

[0084] In embodiments, the excavator 100 is portable in that it allows users to carry out work similar to that carried out using a hand shovel, even in places that are difficult to access, with the same ease of getting started and / or the same level of precision, both when digging and when throwing material.

[0085] In embodiments, the throwing orientation can be changed at any time as is customary with a hand shovel.

[0086] In embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention comprises dust strips 17, which prevent the granular material from reaching unwanted areas of the excavator 100 (for example, from reaching the elongated pins 12).

[0087] In embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention further comprises a dust extractor, for example a vacuum for dust.

[0088] In embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention further comprises an oil dispenser operatively configured to add oil to the shovels (for example, to the bucket portions) so as to prevent granular material (e.g., mud) from sticking thereto. In such embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention preferably comprises an oil reservoir operatively connected to the oil dispenser. The skilled person would understand that such an oil dispenser can be operated in many ways, such as through the use of a button, or it can be a spray dispenser that is always on when the excavator 100 is in operation.

[0089] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 2, the excavator 100 of the present invention further comprises a knee rest 21, for example a knee rest 21 that can be connected to supporting handle 2a.

[0090] In alternative embodiments of the excavator 100 of the present invention, the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 transports granular material along a bottom side thereof, or even along a side surface thereof. For example, in the case of transporting granular material along a bottom side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, this would mean that the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 would rotate in the opposite direction to what is defined above. This would mean that, when in use, the blade portion 11 is moved continuously along the kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, such that each blade portion 11 passes from a front end to a back end along a bottom side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 before returning to the front end along a top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. Naturally, the shape and orientation of each shovel and the transport tunnel 1e would have to be modified to accommodate such a configuration, and the ejection capabilities of the excavator 100 would likely suffer.

[0091] In preferred embodiments, the excavator 100, preferably when it is portable, is capable of one or more of the following:Motor power: About 750 Watts or more, preferably about 750 Watts.• Volume of materials moved: at least about 120 liters / min, more preferably about 120 liters / min.• Max volume, materials in the device: 8 liters (this amount would vary depending on the size of the device, including the size of each shovel).• Max. weight, materials in the device: 16 kilos (this amount would vary depending on the size of the device, including the size of each shovel)• Time to fill an 80 liter wheelbarrow: About 40 seconds or less, preferably about 40 second.• Max. weight, of the device: About 22 kilos or less, preferably about 22 kilos.• Distance from a “hand shoveling location”: 0.5 to 3 meters (approximately).

[0092] In embodiments, in addition to the advantages previously discussed, the excavator 100 of the present invention may present one or more of the following advantages:• Conventional excavators “spit’ the excavated material, without knowing or being able to adequately direct where it will be ejected. However, in embodiments, the excavator 100 of the present invention is configured to allow users to direct where the granular material will be ejected.• The present excavator 100 can take terrain into account and / or work for a long period of time compared to conventional excavators.• The present excavator 100 is less likely to exhibit the “nutcracker” (“squeezing”) effect (described above) and is therefore less likely to become blocked with granular material during use.• The excavator 100 of the present invention can easily be miniaturized to the point where it could be supported and used by a single person.• Many conventional excavators replicate tasks of other hand tools, such as a pickaxe or burrow, in that they can dig, but they deposit the excavated material right next to the resulting hole. The present excavator 100 is able to eject the excavated material in a different location than where it is excavated.• The present excavator 100 can easily be made portable, such that it can be carried and used by a single human.• The present excavator 100 can comprise an anti-breakage design (defined above).• The present excavator 100 can comprise an articulating guide 18 (see Figure 13) proportional in size to the size of the entrance, in order to prevent objects that are too large from entering and blocking the device, and to prevent granular material from being ejected from the excavator 100 prior to entering the transport tunnel 1e.• The present excavator 100 can comprise anti-projection technology, as defined above, to protect the components thereof as well as the user, even when the device is shaken.• The present excavator 100 may be able to function with only one point of support on the ground.

[0093] For clarity, in the present application, the term “kinematic axis” refers to the axis defining the direction of movement of the shovels along the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. As an example, along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, the kinematic axis is parallel to (and slightly above) the longitudinal axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, whereas, at the front end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5, the kinematic axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. Typically, this would mean that, when viewed from the side, the kinematic axis would be stadium-shaped or discorectangle-shaped.

[0094] In addition, the terms “driving” and “driven” refer to the “inner” and “outer” portions of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5. For clarity, the “driving” side or end of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 would refer to the inner portion of the continuous shovel loop assembly 5 (the “inner side” relative to the kinematic axis), while the driven side or end would refer to the outer portion thereof (the “outer side” relative to the kinematic axis).

[0095] Numerical references:• Casing (1 a)• support base (1 d) (in preferred embodiments, a socle base)• transport tunnel (1e)• Entrance port (1 b)• Ejection port (1c) to direct the excavated granular material.• Supporting handle (2a)• operating handle (2b)• Instrumentation system (3)• Supply energy system (4)• continuous shovel loop assembly (5),• Driving wheel (6b)• end tensioner wheel (6a)• Gear system (7)• Motor system (8)• Side wall panels (9)• Bucket portions of shovels (10)• Blade portions (11)• Elongated pins (12)• Bushing covering (12’)• Connecting bars (13)• Rubber covering for connecting bars (13’)• Tooth portion (14)• Rubber gasket (15)• Channels (16)Dust strip (17)Articulating guide (18)• Guide rails 19• T ransfer bases 20• Knee rest 21

[0096] The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

[0097] In embodiments, the excavator 100 is configured to be mounted on a boom or arm of a vehicle, such as a truck or an excavator.DEFINITIONS

[0098] The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

[0099] The terms "comprising", "having", "including", and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to") unless otherwise noted.

[0100] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein.

[0101] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0102] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed.

[0103] No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0104] Herein, the term "about" has its ordinary meaning. In embodiments, it may mean plus or minus 10% or plus or minus 5% of the numerical value qualified.

[0105] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An excavator (100) configured to excavate granular material from one location and deposit it in another location, said excavator (100) comprising: a continuous shovel loop assembly (5) comprising a plurality of shovels operatively connected together in series along a kinematic axis of the continuous shovel loop assembly (5), wherein each shovel comprises a blade portion (11) extending towards a driven side of said kinematic axis, a bucket portion (10) located on a driving side of said kinematic axis, and two laterally spaced side wall panels (9) parallel to the kinematic axis and defining a width of each shovel, and wherein the continuous shovel loop assembly (5) is configured to rotate using driving means, such that each shovel moves along said kinematic axis; and a casing (1 a) configured to at least partially cover the continuous shovel loop assembly (5), wherein an entrance port (1b) is defined at one end of said casing (1 a), and an ejection port (1c) is defined at another end of said casing (1 a), such that, when in use, granular material is collected by the continuous shovel loop assembly (5) at the entrance port (1 b), transported inside the casing (1a) along a length of the excavator (100), and deposited through the ejection port (1c).

2. The excavator (100) of claim 1 , wherein each blade portion (11) comprises a tooth portion (14) at a driven end of the blade portion (11), optionally wherein the tooth portion (14) of each blade portion (11) is configured for specific granular material, and optionally wherein each tooth portion (14) is removable, such that it can be replaced.

3. The excavator (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the blade portion (11) only extends slightly farther than the side wall panels (9) in the driven direction, preferably wherein the blade portions (11) extend farther than the side wall panels (9) in the driven direction by a few centimeters (for example, by between about 1 cm and about 5 cm, or by about 1 cm, by about 2 cm, by about 3 cm, by about 4 cm, or by about 5 cm).

4. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each shovel is pivotably connected to an adjacent shovel, such that all the shovels are pivotably connected together in series, optionally wherein each shovel is pivotably connected to an adjacent shovel by pivotably connecting the end of a bucket portion (10) of each shovel to the end of the blade portion (11) closer to the driving side of an adjacent shovel.

5. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of shovels are connected together using a plurality of elongated pins (12), optionally wherein each elongated pin (12) passes through a corresponding blade portion (11 ) of one shovel and the end of a bucket portion (10) of an adjacent shovel, such that the elongated pin (12) defines an axis around which the shovels pivot with respect to each other; wherein each elongated pin (12) passes through the two laterally spaced side wall panels (9) defining the width of each shovel; and / or wherein each elongated pin 12 comprises a covering 12’ (such as a steel bushing) at each end thereof.

6. The excavator (100) of claim 5, wherein the casing (1 a) comprises two channels (16), each configured to receive an end of the elongated pins (12) such that, when the excavator (100) is in use, the elongated pins travel along the channels (16), optionally wherein, when viewed from the side, the channels (16) are stadium-shaped or discorectangle-shaped, and / or wherein the casing (1 a) is configured such that the weight of the elongated pins (12) (and therefore the weight of the continuous shovel loop assembly (5) is at least partially supported by the channels (16), such that the channels (16) bear some of the stress experienced by the continuous shovel loop assembly (5) when it is in use.

7. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the driving means comprise an end tensioner wheel (6a) (preferably located at the back end of the continuous shovel loop assembly (5)) and a driving wheel (6b) (preferably located at the front end of the continuous shovel loop assembly (5)), the driving wheel (6b) configured to be driven by a motor system (8) such that the driving wheel (6b) is rotated by the motor system (8), thereby causing the continuous shovel loop assembly (5) to rotate.

8. The excavator (100) of claim 7, wherein the elongated pins (12) are configured to be received in notches of the driving wheel (6b) when said elongated pin’s corresponding shovel is in contact with the driving wheel (6b), optionally wherein each blade portion (11) does not extend far beyond the elongated pins (12) in the driven direction, preferably only by a few centimeters (for example, by between about 1 cm and about 5 cm, or by about 1 cm, by about 2 cm, by about 3 cm, by about 4 cm, or by about 5 cm).

9. The excavator (100) of claim 7 or 8, wherein each shovel engages with the driving wheel (6b) close to a driven end of the shovel.

10. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein opposing surfaces of adjacent blade portions (11) diverge away from each other in the driven direction, and / or wherein opposing inner surfaces of each bucket portion (10) diverge away from each other in the driven direction of the continuous shovel loop assembly (5).

11. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the side wall panels (9) partially overlap with adjacent side wall panels (9), thereby allowing the side wall panels (9) to slidably move relative to each other as the continuous shovel loop assembly (5) rotates, without creating unwanted gaps between them.

12. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the excavator (100) of the present invention comprises a transport tunnel (1 e) defined by the casing (1 a) along the top side of the continuous shovel loop assembly (5); wherein the ejection port (1c) of the casing (1a) allows the ejection of the granular material to be directed according to the user's instantaneous preferences, optionally using an adjustable nozzle or by the user moving the excavator to change the direction in which the ejection port (1 c) is facing; and / or wherein the entrance port (1 b) is at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the excavator (100), preferably between 20-70 degrees, more preferably between 30-60 degrees, most preferably about 45 degrees.

13. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the casing (1a) further comprises an ejector system, optionally wherein the ejector system comprises a bellows system adjacent to the ejection port (1c) configured to trap a gas as said gas travels through the casing (1 a) and then to expel this gas towardseach shovel as said shovel passes near the ejection port (1c), and wherein a stop is placed and configured to force rapid compression of the bellows system, such that the gas passes through the bucket portion (10) of the shovel through judiciously sized and positioned holes in the bucket portion (10) to help expel the granular material from the bucket.

14. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the ejection port (1c) comprises an ejection nozzle, optionally wherein the direction of the ejection nozzle is adjustable, so as to allow the user to adjust the direction in which the granular material is ejected from the excavator (100) relatively quickly and easily, according to the user’s instantaneous preference.

15. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the excavator (100) is a man-portable excavator; wherein the casing (1 a) further comprises one or more handles configured such that the excavator (100) is man-portable; and / or wherein the casing (1 a) comprises a supporting handle (2a) and an operating handle (2b).

16. The excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the casing (1 a) further comprises one or more support bases (1 d), such that at least a portion of the weight of the excavator (100) can be supported by the ground, even when the excavator (100) is being used, optionally wherein at least one of the one or more support bases (1d) of the excavator (100) is an anti-kickback support base (1 d) configured to rest on the ground when the excavator (100) is in use, optionally wherein at least one of the one or more support bases (1 d) of the excavator (100) further comprises an anti-rollback wheel configured to prevent the excavator (100) from unwantedly moving backwards, and optionally wherein at least one of the one or more support bases (1 d) of the excavator (100) further comprises at least one self-propelled wheel configured to rest on the ground.

17. A replaceable tooth portion as defined in claim 2.

18. A continuous shovel loop assembly (5) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 16.

19. A casing as defined in any one of claims 1 to 16.

20. A vehicle comprising a boom or arm and the excavator (100) of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the excavator is configured to be mounted on the boom or arm.

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