Articulated conveyor for earth material processing equipment

Abstract

There is disclosed an articulated conveyor (10) for earth material processing equipment (60), such as a mobile crusher, wherein the conveyor is configured to articulate between an unfolded operative position and a folded transport position, the conveyor comprising: a bottom section (20) and a head section (30) pivotably coupled to a bottom section distal end portion (22), a plurality of rollers (50, 50') for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position, wherein at least one roller (50') of the plurality of rollers (50, 50') is provided on one of the head section (20) and the bottom section (30), wherein the at least one roller (50') is displaceable between a protruding configuration in the operative position wherein the roller (50') protrudes in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension of said one of the head section (30) and the bottom section (20), and a retracted configuration in the transport position.

Description

[0001] ARTICULATED CONVEYOR FOR EARTH MATERIAL PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to conveyors for earth material, and more particularly relates to an articulated conveyor for earth material processing equipment.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005]

[0002] In the realm of earth material processing, the equipment landscape typically encompasses various processing units, ranging from vibratory screening devices to crushers and conveyors. These units facilitate the movement and manipulation of materials within processing systems.

[0006]

[0003] Traditionally, such equipment can be broadly categorized into two types: stationary units firmly entrenched at work sites and mobile units designed for relocation within or between sites, often featuring mobility enhancements like wheels or tracks.

[0007]

[0004] However, a common challenge persists across both stationary and mobile variants: the substantial size of the machinery, which complicates transportation logistics. Transporting such sizable equipment demands meticulous consideration of factors like weight and spatial economy.

[0008]

[0005] To address these challenges, existing solutions often incorporate mechanisms enabling a transition from an operational configuration to a more compact transport configuration. For instance, conveyors may be equipped with slewing capabilities to minimize their footprint during transit. These adaptations aim to ease the burden on operators tasked with equipment transport and enhance compliance with size restrictions.

[0009]

[0006] From US1 190564 A1 there is known a combination with a main feeding conveyer for a threshing machine, of an auxiliary feeding conveyer arranged to deliver material to the main conveyer and adjustably supported in operative relation thereto. The auxiliary feeding conveyer comprising a feed way having a cylindrically curved bottom, a channel iron longitudinally disposed in said bottom and rigidly secured thereto, an endless chain conveyer arranged to travel in said channel iron, and provided with bundle engaging flights, extending above and laterally from said channel iron in the bottom portion of the feed way, and means for actuating said chain conveyer. This solution however lacks at least in spatial economy and robustness.

[0010]

[0007] Furthermore, safety considerations loom large during equipment transformation and transport activities, underscoring the importance of implementing robust safety protocols throughout these processes.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012]

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0013]

[0009] Example embodiments may provide a solution that may enable provision of a conveyor that facilitates improved economy of space and that may be operated in a safe and reliable manner.

[0014]

[0010] There is disclosed an articulated conveyor for earth material processing equipment, such as a mobile crusher, wherein the conveyor is configured to articulate between an unfolded operative position and a folded transport position

[0011] The conveyor comprises a bottom section having a bottom section distal end portion, and a bottom section proximal end portion configured to be pivotably coupled to the equipment via one or more first revolute joint.

[0015]

[0012] The conveyor comprises further comprising a head section having a head section proximal end portion pivotably coupled to the bottom section distal end portion, such as by forming at least one second revolute joint with the bottom section distal end portion.

[0016]

[0013] A plurality of rollers may be provided for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position. The plurality of rollers may be provided on the bottom section and the head section. Thus, one or more rollers may be provided on a respective of the bottom section and the head section.

[0017]

[0014] At least one roller of the plurality of rollers that is provided on one of the head section and the bottom section is displaceable between a protruding configuration relative to the one of the head section and the bottom section in the operative position, and a retracted configuration in the transport position.

[0018]

[0015] The displaceable roller (50’) may in the protruding configuration protrude in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension of the one of the head section (30) and the bottom section (20).

[0019]

[0016] A mechanical transmission may be provided and configured to translate the articulation of the conveyor between the operative position and the transport position into displacement of the roller between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0020]

[0017] In an embodiment, the displaceable roller is pivotable about a third rotational axis that is parallel to one or more of a first rotational axis of the first revolute joint and a second rotation axis of the second revolute joint.

[0021]

[0018] The at least one displaceable roller may in the retracted configuration be oriented aligned with the longitudinal extension of said one of the head section and the bottom section.

[0022]

[0019] In some embodiments the mechanical transmission comprises a first gear provided on one of the bottom section and the head section.

[0023]

[0020] In some embodiments the first gear is rotatable relative said one of the bottom section and the head section, and a second gear provided on the other of the bottom section and the head section.

[0024]

[0021] In some embodiments the second gear is stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section, he second gear may be arranged in driving engagement with the first gear.

[0022] In some embodiments the first gear is operably coupled to the at least one displaceable roller for displacing the roller between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0025]

[0023] In some embodiments the first gear is provided on the bottom section (20), and wherein the second gear is provided on the head section.

[0026]

[0024] In some embodiments a gearing ratio between the first gear and the second gear is adapted such that the at least one displaceable roller articulates about 90 degrees between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration in response to the conveyor assuming the transport position.

[0027]

[0025] In some embodiments the head section proximal end portion defines a lever in relation to the second revolute joint for facilitating the second moment.

[0028]

[0026] The lever may comprise at least one anchor point for cooperating with a suspender for suspending the conveyor from the equipment in an unfolded operative position.

[0029]

[0027] In some embodiments the conveyor further comprises the at least one suspender for suspending the conveyor from the equipment in an unfolded operative position where the conveyor during use projects from the equipment.

[0030]

[0028] In some embodiments the head section is configured to articulate in the first folding direction for maintaining a tension in the suspender in response to articulation of the bottom section in a second folding direction that is opposite the first folding direction.

[0031]

[0029] In some embodiments the suspender is under tension during articulation of the conveyor from the operative position until the head section reaches an equilibrium point or a vertical orientation or a an equilibrium point and a vertical orientation.

[0032]

[0030] In some embodiments the suspender is a tension-only member, such as a cable.

[0033]

[0031] In some embodiments, in the operative position, a first moment is provided at the second revolute joint in response to gravity acting on the head section, and wherein a corresponding counteracting second moment is provided by the suspender.

[0034]

[0032] In some embodiments the head section is allowed to articulate under the action of gravity while a respective length of the at least one suspender is constant.

[0035]

[0033] In some embodiments the conveyor further comprises actuation means connected to the bottom section and configured to cooperate with the equipment and operable for displacing the bottom section at least in the second folding direction.

[0036]

[0034] In some embodiments, one or both of the bottom section and the head section comprises sub-sections.

[0037]

[0035] There is disclosed an earth material processing equipment, such as a mobile crusher, comprising the articulated conveyor according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0038] BIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0036] Example embodiments will be described in more detail to the following figures, in which:

[0039]

[0037] FIG. 1 shows a side view of the conveyor according to an embodiment of the disclosure in the operative position.

[0040]

[0038] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.1 .

[0041]

[0039] FIG. 3 shows a side view of the conveyor in a partly folded position according to an embodiment.

[0042]

[0040] FIG. 4 shows perspective view of the conveyor of position of FIG. 3.

[0043]

[0041] FIG. 5 shows an earth material processing equipment comprising the conveyor in the transport position according to an embodiment.

[0044]

[0042] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.5.

[0045]

[0043] FIG. 7 shows a side view of the conveyor during in a partly unfolded position, according to an embodiment.

[0046]

[0044] FIG. 8 shows details of the embodiment of FIG. 2 wherein a displaceable roller is configured in a protruding configuration.

[0047]

[0045] FIG. 9 shows details of the embodiment of FIG.6 wherein the displaceable roller is configured in a retracted configuration.

[0048] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049]

[0046] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show an example embodiment of the articulated conveyor 10 for earth material processing equipment 60. The equipment 60 may be a mobile crusher. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 shows an unfolded position of the conveyor 10 wherein FIG.1 shows the conveyor 10 as seen in a vertical plane V. Gravity G indicates a vertically aligned downwards direction.

[0050]

[0047] The conveyor 10 has an upper side or region 11 facing in a generally upwards direction in the unfolded operative position, and a lower side or region 12 facing in a generally downwards direction in the unfolded position. The bottom section 20 and the head section 30 are aligned in the operative position. The head section 30 being contiguous, such as arranged in sequence, with the bottom section 20 in the operative position.

[0051]

[0048] The conveyor 10 comprises a bottom section 20 having a proximal end portion 21 that forms at least one element of one or more first revolute joint P1 for pivotably coupling the conveyor to the equipment 60. By way of example, the conveyor 10 may comprise at least one bracket (not show) wherein the bottom section 20 and the bracket forms respective elements of the kinematic pair of the at least one first revolute joint P1. The bracket may then be attached to the equipment 60.

[0052]

[0049] The at least one first revolute joint P1 has an axis of rotation A1 transverse the vertical plane V as seen in FIG. 1. Hence, articulation about the first revolute joint P1 may comprise articulation about the first axis A1. The conveyor 10 further comprises a head section 30 having a proximal end portion 31 forming at least one second revolute joint P2 with a bottom section distal end portion 22. The second revolute joint P2 has an axis of rotation A2, and hence articulation about the second revolute joint P2 may comprise articulation about the second axis A2. The embodiment shown comprises two first revolute joints P1 and two second revolute joints P2 as is derivable from FIG. 2.

[0053]

[0050] Theat least one suspender 45 may be provided for suspending the conveyor 10 from the equipment 60 in an unfolded operative position where the conveyor during use projects from the equipment 60. That is, the conveyor may comprise the at least one suspender 45. The suspender 45 is configured to cooperate with the equipment. The suspender 45, in particular a length L of the suspender, is adapted to cooperate with the equipment at a position vertically above the first revolute joint P1 and the second revolute joint P2 in the operative position. Suspending may comprise a hanging. The suspender 45 may be connected at one end to the head section proximal end portion 31 and at its opposite end to the equipment 60. The suspender 45 may be a tension-only member, such as a cable. In the embodiment shown, two suspenders are provided.

[0054]

[0051] As derivable for example from FIG. 2, the head section 30 may comprise at least one roller 50 and likewise the bottom section 20 may comprise one or more roller 50, 50’. The rollers 50, 50’ are provided for supporting a conveyor belt 18 in the operative position as indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 2. In the embodiment shown, the rollers 50, 50’ project normal to the plane of the conveyor 10 in an upwards direction in the operative position. The conveyor belt 18 and thus the conveyor 10 has a feeding direction F that aligns with the respective longitudinal directions of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30 in the operative position. The rollers 50, 50’, in particular a respective rotational axis of rotatable roller members 53 of the rollers 50, 50’, therefore extends with their respective rotational axis generally transverse to the feeding direction F and / or the longitudinal directions of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30.

[0055]

[0052] With added reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the conveyor is allowed to articulate during use between the operative position and a folded transport position where the conveyor during use with the equipment is folded at the equipment 60.

[0053] In the embodiment shown the conveyor 10 is folded at a vertical side of the equipment 60, which may be a lateral side.

[0056]

[0054] The operative position is shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, whereas the transport position is shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. In the transport position, the bottom section 20 and the head section 30 are arranged folded next to each other, such as side by side and / or in parallel for a compact arrangement. In the embodiment shown, the bottom section 20 and the head section 30 are arranged extending substantially vertical in the transport position. In the embodiment shown, the bottom section proximal end portion 21 is pivotably coupled to the equipment 60. The at least one suspender 45 connects to the equipment 60 at a position above the first revolute joint P1. The conveyor 10 may be configured to, in the operative position, slope towards the equipment 60 and / or projects from the equipment 60 in a distal and upwards direction.

[0057]

[0055] The head section 30 is configured to articulate from the operative position in a first folding direction F1 towards the transport position under the action of gravity G as shown in FIG. 3. Conversely, articulation of the bottom section 20, such as the bottom section distal end portion 22, from the transport position to the operative position in the second unfolding direction F2’ may be assisted by gravity G.

[0056] The head section 30, such as the head section distal end portion 32, articulates at least about the second revolute joint P2. The first folding direction F1 is directed generally downwards and / or towards / proximal the equipment 60 and / or towards / proximal the bottom section 20. The bottom section 20, such as the bottom section distal end portion 22, is configured to articulate about the first revolute joint P1 in the second folding direction F2. The second folding direction F2 is directed generally upwards and / or towards / proximal the equipment 60 and / or distal / away from the head section 30.

[0058]

[0057]

[0059]

[0058] In the operative position, a first moment M1 is provided at the second revolute joint P2 in response to gravity G acting on the head section 30. A corresponding counteracting second moment M2 is provided by the suspender 45.

[0059] The head section proximal end portion 31 defines a reaction arm or lever 35 in relation to the second revolute joint P2 for facilitating the second moment M2, wherein the lever 35 comprises an anchor point 36 for cooperating with the suspender 45. In the embodiment shown, a respective lever 35 is provided for each suspender 45.

[0060]

[0060] The levers 35 may extend from the second revolute joint P2 and project from an upper side 11 of the head section 30. In the embodiment shown, the second revolute joint P2 is provided at the lower side 12 of the head section 30 and / or conveyor 10 in the operative position. The lever 35 may project from the head section 30 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the head section 30, as shown in FIG.1. In the embodiment show, a respective suspender connects to a respective lever 35 at the upper side 11 of the head section 30 in the operative position. However, similar function of the conveyer may be obtained with the suspender 45 connecting to the head section 30 at the lower side 12 of the head section 30.

[0061]

[0061] As derivable from FIG. 1 , the anchor point 36 and the second revolute joint P2 are arranged vertically distanced in the operative position, as seen in a vertical plane V. The anchor point 36 and the second revolute joint P2 may be provided at vertically opposite sides of the head section 30 in the operative position.

[0062] As derivable from FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 the head section distal end portion 32 articulates in a proximal direction in response to articulation of the bottom section distal end portion 22 in a proximal direction. A proximal direction may comprise a direction towards the equipment 60. Correspondingly, a distal direction may comprise a direction away from the equipment 60.

[0062]

[0063] The bottom section 20 and the head section 30 articulates in respective and opposite directions during the articulation towards the operative position and towards the transport position respectively. That is, the first folding direction F1 and the second folding direction F2 are opposite.

[0064] The head section 30 is allowed to articulate under the action of gravity G, such as from the operative position to an equilibrium point, while a respective length of the at least one suspender 45 is constant. An equilibrium point may imply a position where the head section is vertically oriented.

[0063]

[0065] The equilibrium point may comprise a point where gravity G no longer drives articulation of the head section 30. Although the head section 30 may at the equilibrium point be somewhat misaligned with respect of the direction of gravity G depending on the position of the second revolute joint P2, it may be said typically the head section 30, in particular the longitudinal extension of the head section 30, is aligned substantially with the direction of gravity G and / or substantially vertical.

[0064]

[0066] As mentioned hereinbefore, upon articulation of the head section 30 in the first folding direction F1 beyond the equilibrium point, the suspender 45 may no longer be under tension. That is, the suspender 45 may be under tension until, such as exclusively until, the head section 30 has reached the equilibrium point and / or is aligned substantially vertically.

[0065]

[0067] Once the head section 30 has reached the equilibrium point, the head section 30 may essentially remain the attained alignment, that may be substantially vertical, until the bottom section 20 has articulated to the transport position. As mentioned hereinbefore, articulation of the bottom section 20 in the second folding direction F2’, such as by means of the actuation means 28, may from this point affect further relative articulation of the bottom section 30 and the head section 20 to assume the transport position. However, it may be noted the head section 30 may after reaching the equilibrium point behave as pendulum during the further articulation of the bottom section 20, whereby the head section 30 may be swinging somewhat back and forth in the first unfolding direction F1 ’ and / or the first folding direction F1.

[0066]

[0068] The head section 30 may be configured to articulate in the first folding direction F1 to maintain a tension in the suspender 45 in response to articulation of the bottom section 20 in a second folding direction F2 that is opposite the first folding direction F1. The suspender 45 may be under tension until the head section 30 reaches the equilibrium point.

[0067]

[0069] With added reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the conveyor may further comprise a plurality of rollers 50, 50’ for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position. The rollers 50, 50’ may be provided on one or more of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30. In some embodiments the plurality of rollers 50, 50’ comprises at least one displaceable roller 50’ displaceable between a protruding configuration in the operative position and a retracted configuration in the transport position. In the protruding configuration, the displaceable roller 50’ may extend substantially transverse the longitudinal extension of the relevant section to which the displaceable roller 50’ is provided, such as the bottom section as shown in FIG.8. Alternatively, or in addition, the displaceable roller 50’ protrudes in a direction substantially normal to a plane of the relevant section to which the displaceable roller 50’ is provided, such as substantially normal the plane of the bottom section, as shown in FIG.8. As derivable from FIG. 8, the displaceable roller 50’ protrudes in the protruding configuration from an upper side 11 of the conveyor 10 in the operative position.

[0068]

[0070] In the retracted configuration, the displaceable roller 50’ is retracted in relation to the protruding configuration. Put differently, the displaceable roller 50’ is retracted in relation to the section it is provided to, which in the embodiment shown is the bottom section 20. That is, the displaceable roller 50’ is retracted in a direction opposite to the normal of the plane of the bottom section 20 or where applicable the head section 30.

[0069]

[0071] The displacement of the displaceable roller 50’ pay comprise a pivoting displacement relative to the section the displaceable roller 50’ is provided to, i.e. the bottom section 20 or the head section 30.

[0070]

[0072] A respective displaceable roller 50’ may be pivotable about a respective third rotation axis A3. The displaceable roller 50’ may comprise opposing holding members 52 extending normal to the third rotation axis A3. The holding members 52 may pivot about the third rotation axis A3. The holding members 52 may rotate with the first gear 41. The holding members 52 may be provided to an axle 51 and may rotate with axle 51 and / or the first gear 41. Each roller 50’ may further comprise one or more roller member 53 independently rotatably coupled to one of the opposing holding members 52. In the embodiment shown two roller members 53 are provided on each roller 50, 50’. The roller members 52 may comprise generally cylindrical members that may be rotational symmetrical.

[0071]

[0073] The conveyor 10 may comprise one or more displaceable roller 50’ on one or more of the bottom section 20 and head section 30.

[0072]

[0074] In FIG. 8 a displaceable roller 50’ is configured in the protruding configuration corresponding to the operative position of FIG.1 . In FIG.9 the displaceable roller 50’ is configured in a retracted configuration corresponding to the transport position shown in FIG. 5. Curtesy of the displaceable roller 50’, the bottom section distal end 22 may be arranged in close proximity of the equipment as derivable from FIG. 5, which is favorable for the economy of space of the equipment i.e. it is rendered more compact.

[0073]

[0075] Referring again to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the displaceable roller 50’ may comprise or be provided independently rotatable on an axle 51 extending parallel to the first rotation axis A1 of the first revolute joint P1. In the embodiment shown, the axle 43 is provided on the bottom section 20. The axle 51 may be rotatable relative to the bottom section 20 and may rotate with a first gear 41 as will be further elucidated herein. The displaceable roller 50’ may rotate with the axle 51 and thus be pivotable about the third rotation axis A3.

[0074]

[0076] The displaceable roller 50’ projects in a direction normal to the third rotation axis A3. The displaceable roller 50’ may thus be pivotable between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0075]

[0077] In the protruding configuration shown in FIG. 8 the displaceable roller 50’ is extending substantially transverse to the longitudinal extension of the bottom section 20. In FIG. 9 the displaceable roller 50’ is extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension of the bottom section 20.

[0078] Although the feature of the displaceable roller 50’ has been explained mainly with reference to the bottom section 20 of the exemplary embodiments, it should be appreciated that the displaceable roller 50’ may alternatively or in addition be implemented on the head section 30.

[0076]

[0079] The conveyor 10 may further comprise a mechanical transmission 40 adapted to displace the at least one displaceable roller 50’ between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration in response to the articulation of the conveyor 10 between the operative position and the transport position.

[0077]

[0080] The mechanical transmission 40 may comprise a first gear 41 , 42 provided on one of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30. The first gear 41, 42 may be rotatable relative said one of the bottom section and the head section. A second gear 41 , 42 may be provided on the other of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30. The second gear 41 , 42 may be stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section. The second gear 41 , 42 may be arranged in driving engagement with the first gear 41 , 42. The first gear 41 , 42 may be operably coupled to the at least one displaceable roller 50’ for displacing the displaceable roller 50’ between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0078]

[0081] The first gear 41 may be provided on the bottom section 20 and have a third axis of rotation A3. The second gear 42 may be provided on the head section 30, such as at the second revolute joint P2, such as at an axis of rotation A2 of the second revolute joint P2. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the second gear 42 is smaller than the first gear 41. That is, the second gear 42 is provided with fewer gears than the first gear 41.

[0079]

[0082] A gearing ratio between the first gear 41 , 42 and the second gear 41 , 42 may be adapted such that the at least one displaceable roller 50’ articulates from a protruding configuration to a retracted configuration relative the bottom section 20 in response to the conveyor 10 assuming the transport position.

[0080]

[0083] It should be appreciated that although the embodiments shown in the drawings comprises a single displaceable roller 50’, the conveyor could be provided with more than one displaceable roller, such as a plurality of displaceable rollers. Thus, a plurality of displaceable rollers may be displaced by means of a mechanical transmission according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0081]

[0084] As explained hereinbefore, the conveyor 10 may further comprise actuation means 28 articulating the bottom section 20 between the operative position and the transport position.

[0082]

[0085] The actuation means 28 may be for affecting articulation of the bottom section 20 in one or more of the second unfolding direction F2’, such as to the operative position, and the second folding direction F2, such as to the transport position.

[0083]

[0086] The actuation means 28 may be connected to the bottom section 20 and configured to cooperate with the equipment 60. The actuation means 28 are operable for displacing the bottom section 20 at least in the second folding direction F2.

[0084]

[0087] The actuation means 28 may be operable for displacing the bottom section 20 in the second unfolding direction F2’.

[0088] The actuation means 28 may comprise a linear displacement device, such as a servo, hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder or like. In the embodiment shown, the actuation means 28 is connected, such as pivotably connected, to the equipment 60 at a location below the first revolute joint P1 .

[0085]

[0089] The actuator 28 may during the articulation of the head section 30 to the equilibrium point exert a braking force to the bottom section 20 such that the head section 30 articulates, i.e. folds in a controlled manner in response to gravity G. The braking force may be achieved for example by utilizing the inertia or passive resistance to expansion of the actuation means 28, in the present embodiment a hydraulic cylinder.

[0086]

[0090] The actuation means 28 may be controllable, such as electronically or hydraulically, such as from a remote location. This configuration may be achieved for example by wired or wireless connection. For this purpose, the actuator 28 may be configured to be connected to a source of hydraulic pressure. The source of hydraulic pressure may be facilitated by a main engine of the equipment driving a pump. Alternatively, or in addition, the source of hydraulic pressure may be provided by means of a battery driving a pump.

[0087]

[0091] FIG. 7 shows the conveyor 10 articulating from the transport position towards the operative position. The head section 30, such as the head section distal end portion 32, articulates in the first unfolding direction F1 ’ about the second revolute joint P2, that is, about the second axis A2. The first unfolding direction F1 ’ is directed generally upwards and / or away from or distal the equipment 60 and / or a distal direction relative to the equipment 60 and / or distal direction relative to the bottom section 20 and / or a distal direction relative to the first revolute joint P1.

[0088]

[0092] Conversely, the bottom section 20, such as the bottom section distal end portion 22, articulates about the first revolute joint P1 , that is the first axis A1 , in the second unfolding direction F2’. The second unfolding direction F2’ is directed downwards and / or in a distal direction relative to the equipment 60 and / or towards / proximal the head section 30.

[0089]

[0093] The bottom section distal end portion 22 and the head section proximal end portion 31 may comprise respective locking surfaces 27, 37 configured to be brought into abutment in the operative position for arresting articulation of the conveyor 10 in the first and second unfolding directions F1 , F2 beyond the operative position.

[0090]

[0094] The term “revolute joint” as used herein may comprise any known type of joint allowing for relative rotation, including pivoting, of the bottom section and the head section or the equipment and the bottom section. Although the first and second revolute joint may preferably comprise a non-flexible connection, it has been contemplated that the first revolute joint and / or the second revolute joint may alternatively be realized by means of connecting flexible members allowing relative pivoting.

[0091]

[0095] The terms “distal” and “proximal” as used herein refers generally to the conveyor 10 in the operative position and relative to the first revolute joint P1 and / or the equipment 60.

[0096] It will be understood that the above description is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments. Although various embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from scope of this specification.

[0092] ITEMS

[0093] Item 1 . Articulated conveyor 10 for earth material processing equipment 60, such as a mobile crusher, wherein the conveyor is configured to articulate between an unfolded operative position and a folded transport position, the conveyor comprising: a bottom section 20 having a bottom section distal end portion 22, and a bottom section proximal end portion 21 forming at least part of one or more first revolute joint P1 for coupling the conveyor to the equipment 60, a head section 30 having a head section proximal end portion 31 forming at least one second revolute joint P2 with the bottom section distal end portion 22, a plurality of rollers 50, 50’ for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position, wherein at least one roller 50’ of the plurality of rollers 50, 50’ is displaceable between a protruding configuration in the operative position and a retracted configuration in the transport position relative one of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30.

[0094] Item 2. The conveyor 10 according to the preceding claim 1 , further comprising a mechanical transmission 40 configured to translate the articulation of the conveyor 10 between the operative position and the transport position into displacement of the at least one displaceable roller 50’ between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0095] Item 3. The conveyor 10 according to claim 2, wherein the mechanical transmission 40 comprises: a first gear 41 provided on one of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30, wherein the first gear 41 is rotatable relative said one of the bottom section and the head section, and a second gear 42 provided on the other of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30, wherein the second gear 42 is stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section, wherein the second gear 42 is arranged in driving engagement with the first gear 41 , and wherein the first gear 41 is operably coupled to the at least one displaceable roller 50’ for displacing the roller 50’ between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0096] Item 4. The conveyor 10 according to the preceding claim 3, wherein the first gear 41 is provided on the bottom section 20, and wherein the second gear 42 is provided on the head section 30.

[0097] Item 5. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 4, wherein a gearing ratio between the first gear 41 and the second gear 42 is adapted such that the at least one displaceable roller 50’ articulates about 90 degrees between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration in response to the conveyor 10 assuming the transport position.

[0098] Item 6. The conveyor according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, wherein the head section proximal end portion 31 defines a lever 35 in relation to the second revolute joint P2 for facilitating the second moment M2, wherein the lever 35 comprises at least one anchor point 36 for cooperating with a suspender 45 for suspending the conveyor 10 from the equipment 60 in an unfolded operative position.

[0099] Item 7. The conveyor 10 according to any preceding claim, further comprising the at least one suspender 45 for suspending the conveyor 10 from the equipment 60 in an unfolded operative position where the conveyor during use projects from the equipment 60.

[0100] Item 8. The conveyor 10 according to claim 1 , wherein the head section 30 is configured to articulate in the first folding direction F1 for maintaining a tension in the suspender 45 in response to articulation of the bottom section 20 in a second folding direction F2 that is opposite the first folding direction F1.

[0101] Item 9. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 8, wherein the suspender 45 is under tension during articulation of the conveyor from the operative position until the head section 30 reaches an equilibrium point.

[0102] Item 10. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 9, wherein the suspender 45 is a tension-only member.

[0103] Item 11. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 10, wherein the operative position, a first moment M1 is provided at the second revolute joint P2 in response to gravity G acting on the head section 30, and wherein a corresponding counteracting second moment M2 is provided by the suspender 45.

[0104] Item 12. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 11 , wherein the head section 30 is allowed to articulate under the action of gravity G while a respective length L of the at least one suspender 45 is constant.

[0105] Item 13. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 12, further comprising actuation means 28 connected to the bottom section 20 and configured to cooperate with the equipment 60 and operable for displacing the bottom section 20 at least in the second folding direction F2.

[0106] Item 14. An earth material processing equipment 60, such as a mobile crusher, comprising the articulated conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding claims

Claims

CLAIMS1. Articulated conveyor (10) for earth material processing equipment (60), such as a mobile crusher, wherein the conveyor is configured to articulate between an unfolded operative position and a folded transport position, the conveyor comprising: a bottom section (20) having a bottom section distal end portion (22), and a bottom section proximal end portion (21) configured to be pivotably coupled to the equipment via one or more first revolute joint (P1 ), a head section (30) having a head section proximal end portion (31 ) forming at least one second revolute joint (P2) with the bottom section distal end portion (22), a plurality of rollers (50, 50’) for supporting a conveyor belt (18) in the operative position, wherein at least one roller (50’) of the plurality of rollers (50, 50’) that is provided on one of the head section (20) and the bottom section (30) is displaceable between a protruding configuration relative to the one of the head section (20) and the bottom section (30) in the operative position, and a retracted configuration in the transport position, wherein the roller (50’) in the protruding configuration protrudes in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension of the one of the head section (30) and the bottom section (20).

2. The conveyor (10) according to claim 1 comprising a mechanical transmission (40) configured to translate the articulation of the conveyor (10) between the operative position and the transport position into displacement of the roller (50’) between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

3. The conveyor (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the displaceable roller (50’) is pivotable about a third rotational axis (A3) that is parallel to one or more of a first rotational axis (A1 ) of the first revolute joint (P1 ) and a second rotation axis (A2) of the second revolute joint (P2).

4. The conveyor (10) according to any claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one displaceable roller (50’) is in the retracted configuration oriented aligned with the longitudinal extension of said one of the head section (30) and the bottom section (20).

5. The conveyor (10) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mechanical transmission (40) comprises cooperating gears (41 , 42) on the bottom section (20) and the head section (30) wherein the gears (41 , 42) are operatively coupled to the at least one displaceable roller (50’), such as to pivot the roller (50’) in response to articulation of the conveyor (10).

6. The conveyor (10) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the mechanical transmission (40) comprises:a first gear (41 ) provided on one of the bottom section (20) and the head section (30), wherein the first gear (41) is rotatable relative said one of the bottom section and the head section, and a second gear (42) provided on the other of the bottom section (20) and the head section (30), wherein the second gear (42) is stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section, wherein the second gear (42) is arranged in driving engagement with the first gear (41), and wherein the first gear (41) is operably coupled to the displaceable roller (50’) for displacing the roller (50’) between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration, preferably the displaceable roller (50’) rotates with the first gear (41).

7. The conveyor (10) according to the preceding claim 5 or 6, wherein the first gear (41) is provided on the bottom section (20), and wherein the second gear (42) is provided on the head section (30).

8. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 6 or 7, wherein a gearing ratio between the first gear (41 ) and the second gear (42) is adapted such that the at least one displaceable roller (50’) articulates about 90 degrees between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration in response to the conveyor (10) assuming the transport position.

9. The conveyor according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, wherein the head section proximal end portion (31 ) defines a lever (35) in relation to the second revolute joint (P2) for facilitating the second moment (M2), wherein the lever (35) comprises at least one anchor point (36) for cooperating with a suspender (45) for suspending the conveyor (10) from the equipment (60) in an unfolded operative position.

10. The conveyor (10) according to any preceding claim 1 to 9, further comprising at least one suspender (45) for suspending the conveyor (10) from the equipment (60) in an unfolded operative position where the conveyor during use projects from the equipment (60).

11. The conveyor (10) according to claim 10, wherein the head section (30) is configured to articulate in the first folding direction (F1 ) for maintaining a tension in the suspender (45) in response to articulation of the bottom section (20) in a second folding direction (F2) that is opposite the first folding direction (F1).

12. The conveyor (10) according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein the suspender (45) is under tension during articulation of the conveyor (10) from the operative position until the head section (30) reaches an equilibrium point.

13. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 12, wherein the suspender (45) is a tension-only member.

14. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 13, wherein the operative position, a first moment (M1) is provided at the second revolute joint (P2) in response to gravity (G) acting on the head section (30), and wherein a corresponding counteracting second moment (M2) is provided by the suspender (45).

15. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 14, wherein the head section (30) is allowed to articulate under the action of gravity (G) while a respective length (L) of the at least one suspender (45) is constant.

16. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 15, further comprising actuation means (28) for affecting articulation of the bottom section (20) at least in the second folding direction (F2).

17. An earth material processing equipment (60), such as a mobile crusher, comprising the articulated conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 14.

18. The earth material processing equipment (60) according to claim 17, wherein the bottom section proximal end portion (21) is pivotably coupled to the equipment (60).

19. The earth material processing equipment (60) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the at least one suspender (45) connects to the equipment (60) at a position above the first revolute joint (P1 ).

20. The earth material processing equipment (60) according to any claim 17 to 19, wherein the conveyor (10) in the operative position slopes towards the equipment (60) and / or projects from the equipment (60) in a distal and upwards direction.

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