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, the conveyor comprising: a bottom section (20) and a head section (30), at least one suspender (45) configured to suspend the conveyor (10); the conveyor (10) is configured to articulate in a vertical plane (V) between the operative position and a folded transport position where the conveyor (10) is folded at the first revolute joint (P1); articulation of the head section (30) from the operative position towards the transport position in a first folding direction (F1) is assisted by gravity (G) and drives articulation of the bottom section (20) in a second folding direction (F2) that is opposite the first folding direction (F1) and / or counter the action of gravity (G).

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 consideration of factors like weight and spatial economy.

[0008]

[0005] 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.

[0009]

[0006] To address challenges of the prior art, 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.

[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 articulated conveyor for earth material processing equipment, such as a mobile crusher. The conveyor comprises a bottom section having a bottom section proximal end portion, in relation to the equipment, that may be pivotably coupled to the equipment or configured to be pivotably coupled to the equipment via one or more first revolute joint.

[0015]

[0011] A head section is provided having a proximal end portion pivotably coupled to a bottom section distal end portion of the bottom section via one or more second revolute joint.

[0016]

[0012] At least one suspender is provided that suspends, or that is configured to suspend, the conveyor from the equipment in an unfolded operative position wherein the conveyor projects from the first revolute joint and / or the equipment.

[0017]

[0013] The conveyor may be configured to articulate in a vertical plane between the operative position and a folded transport position where the conveyor is folded at the first revolute joint.

[0018]

[0014] In an embodiment, at least one actuator is provided for driving and / or affecting articulation of the conveyor to the transport position. The actuator may be for driving and / or affecting articulation of the bottom section, such as in the second folding direction, to the transport position. The actuator may be for driving and / or affecting articulation of the head section, such as in the first folding direction, to the transport position. The actuator may be configured to cooperate with one of the bottom section and the head section via a pivot coupling. The actuator may be configured to cooperate with the equipment, such as via a pivot coupling. The bottom section and the head section may in the transport position be aligned generally parallel and / or vertical. That is, in the transport position a respective longitudinal extension of the elongate bottom section and elongate head section may be aligned generally vertically.

[0019]

[0015] In an embodiment, articulation of the head section from the operative position towards the transport position in a first folding direction is assisted by gravity and drives articulation of the bottom section in a second folding direction that may be opposite the first folding direction and / or counter to or contrary to the action of gravity. For example, the first folding direction may be one of clockwise or counterclockwise, and the second folding direction the other of clockwise and counterclockwise.

[0020]

[0016] In some embodiments the suspender connects to the head section such that articulation of the head section in the first folding direction drives articulation of the bottom section in the second folding direction. Put differently, the head section, such as the head section proximal end portion may be configured to connect with the suspender such that articulation of the head section in the first folding direction drives articulation of the bottom section in the second folding direction.

[0021]

[0017] The bottom section, such as the bottom section distal end portion may be configured to articulate from the transport position to the operative position in a second unfolding direction under the action of gravity.

[0022]

[0018] The conveyor may comprise an upper side or region facing in a generally upwards direction in the unfolded position, and a lower side or region facing in a generally downwards direction in the unfolded position.

[0023]

[0019] The head section, such as the head section distal end portion, may be configured to articulate from the operative position towards the transport position in a first folding direction that is directed generally downwards and proximal to the first revolute joint and / or the equipment.

[0024]

[0020] The bottom section, such as the bottom section distal end portion, may be configured to articulate from the operative position towards the transport position in a second folding direction that is directed generally upwards and proximal to the first revolute joint and / or the equipment.

[0025]

[0021] The head section, such as the head section distal end portion, may be configured to articulate from the transport position to the operative position in a first unfolding direction that is directed generally upwards and distal to the first revolute joint and / or the equipment.

[0026]

[0022] The bottom section, such as the bottom section distal end portion, may be configured to articulate from the transport position to the operative position in a second unfolding direction that is directed generally downwards and distal to the first revolute joint and / or the equipment.

[0027]

[0023] The head section may articulate in the first unfolding direction and the bottom section may articulate in the second unfolding direction simultaneously.

[0028]

[0024] The head section may articulate in the first folding direction and the bottom section may articulate in the second folding direction simultaneously.

[0029]

[0025] In some embodiments the head section is configured to articulate in the first folding direction to maintain 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.

[0030]

[0026] The suspender may be under tension until the head section reaches an equilibrium point, such as an equilibrium point in relation to gravity, such as substantially aligned with the direction of gravity. Upon articulation of the head section in the first folding direction beyond the equilibrium point, the suspender may no longer be under tension. That is, the suspender may be under tension until, such as exclusively until, the head section is aligned vertically.

[0031]

[0027] In some embodiments the suspender is a tension-only member, such as a cable, rope, chain or like.

[0032]

[0028] 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.

[0029] In some embodiments the head section proximal end portion defines a lever in relation to the second revolute joint for facilitating the second moment. The lever may comprise an anchor point for cooperating with the suspender. Hence the suspender may connect to the lever, such as at one of an upper side or lower side of the head section in the operative position.

[0033]

[0030] In some embodiments the anchor point and the second revolute joint are arranged vertically distanced in the operative position, preferably the anchor point and the second revolute joint are provided at vertically opposite sides of the head section in the operative position.

[0034]

[0031] The conveyor may further comprise a plurality of rollers for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position, wherein the plurality of rollers comprises at least one displaceable roller displaceable between a protruding configuration in the operative position and a retracted configuration in the transport position.

[0035]

[0032] In some embodiments the conveyor further comprises a mechanical transmission configured to translate the articulation of the conveyor between the operative position and the transport position into displacement of the at least one displaceable roller between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0036]

[0033] In some embodiments the mechanical transmission comprises: a first gear provided on one of the bottom section and the head section, wherein 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, wherein the second gear is stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section, wherein the second gear is arranged in driving engagement with the first gear, and wherein 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.

[0037]

[0034] The first gear may be provided on the bottom section, and wherein the second gear is provided on the head section, such as at the second revolute joint, for example at an axis of rotation of the second revolute joint.

[0038]

[0035] In some embodiments the bottom section and the head section articulates in respective and opposite directions during the articulation towards the operative position and towards the transport position respectively.

[0039]

[0036] 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.

[0040]

[0037] The conveyer may further comprise actuation means, such as at least one actuator, 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.

[0041]

[0038] In some embodiments the actuator is electronically controllable from a remote location.

[0039] 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 from a protruding position to a retracted position relative the bottom section in response to the conveyor assuming the transport position.

[0042]

[0040] The bottom section distal end portion and the head section proximal end portion may comprise respective locking surfaces configured to be brought into abutment in the operative position for arresting articulation of the conveyor in the first and second unfolding directions beyond the operative position.

[0043]

[0041] In some embodiments the head section distal end portion articulates in a proximal direction in response to articulation of the bottom section distal end portion in a proximal direction.

[0044]

[0042] In some embodiments, one or both of the bottom section and the head section comprises sub-sections.

[0045]

[0043] In a further aspect of the disclosure there is provided an earth material processing equipment, such as a mobile crusher, comprising the articulated conveyor according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0046] BIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0047]

[0044] Example embodiments will be described in more detail to the following figures, in which:

[0048]

[0045] FIG. 1 shows a side view of the conveyor according to an embodiment of the disclosure in the operative position.

[0049]

[0046] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.1 .

[0050]

[0047] FIG. 3 shows a side view of the conveyor in a partly folded position according to an embodiment.

[0051]

[0048] FIG. 4 shows perspective view of the conveyor of position of FIG. 3.

[0052]

[0049] FIG. 5 shows a side view of the conveyor in the transport position at the equipment according to an embodiment.

[0053]

[0050] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.5.

[0054]

[0051] FIG. 7 shows a side view of the conveyor during in a partly unfolded position, according to an embodiment.

[0055]

[0052] FIG. 8 shows details of the embodiment of FIG. 2 wherein a displaceable roller is configured in a protruding position.

[0056]

[0053] FIG. 9 shows details of the embodiment of FIG.6 wherein the displaceable roller is configured in a retracted position.

[0057] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058]

[0054] 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.

[0059]

[0055] 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.

[0060]

[0056] 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 61 (see FIG. 5) wherein the bottom section 20 and the bracket 61 forms respective elements of the kinematic pair of the at least one first revolute joint P1 . The bracket 61 may then be attached to the equipment 60.

[0061]

[0057] 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.

[0062]

[0058] At 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. 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.

[0063]

[0059] As derivable from FIG. 1 , the conveyor 10 in the operative position slopes towards the first revolute joint P1 and may form an angle in the range of 20 to 50 degrees with a horizontal plane H.

[0064]

[0060] 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 60 is folded at the equipment 60. In the embodiment shown the conveyor 10 is folded at a vertical side of the equipment 60, which may be a lateral side. 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 for a compact arrangement. Alternatively, or in addition the bottom section 20 and the head section 30 are arranged substantially parallel for a compact arrangement. In the embodiment shown, the bottom section 20 and the head section 30 are arranged extending substantially vertical.

[0061] 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, the bottom section 20, such as the bottom section distal end portion 22, is configured to articulate from the transport position to the operative position in the second unfolding direction F2’ under the action of gravity G. 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 a 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.

[0065]

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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. The lever 35 comprises an anchor point 36 for cooperating, such as connecting, with the suspender 45. In the embodiment shown, a respective lever 35 is provided for each suspender 45. The levers 35 extend from the second revolute joint P2 towards 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.

[0066]

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0067]

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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 arranged. Once the head section has reached the vertical equilibrium point, the head section essentially remains the vertical alignment until the bottom section 20 has articulated to the transport position. However, the head section may after reaching the vertical alignment behave as pendulum during the further articulation of the bottom section 20, whereby the head section 30 may be swinging somewhat in the first unfolding direction F1 ’ and / or the first folding direction F1.

[0068]

[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.

[0069]

[0069] The suspender 45 may be under tension until, including only until, the head section 30 reaches the equilibrium point.

[0070]

[0070] 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. 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 FIG. 7 a displaceable roller 50’ is configured in a protruding position corresponding to the operative position of FIG.1. In FIG.9 the displaceable roller 50 ‘is configured in a retracted position 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 earth material processing equipment 60 as derivable from FIG. 5, which is favorable for the economy of space of the equipment i.e. it is rendered more compact.

[0071]

[0071] 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.

[0072]

[0072] 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.

[0073]

[0073] The first gear 41 may be provided on the bottom section 20 and have an axis of rotation A3, and 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. 8 and FIG. 9, 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.

[0074]

[0074] 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 position to a retracted position relative the bottom section 20 in response to the conveyor 10 assuming the transport position.

[0075]

[0075] The conveyor 10 may further comprise an actuator 28 articulating the bottom section 20 between the operative position and the transport position. The actuator 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. The actuator 28 may be connected to the bottom section 20 and configured to cooperate with the equipment 60, such pivotably coupled to the equipment 60. The actuator 28 is operable for displacing the bottom section 20 at least in the second folding direction F2. The actuator 28 may be operable for displacing the bottom section 20 in the second unfolding direction F2’.

[0076]

[0076] The actuator 28 may comprises at least one hydraulic cylinder, including a pneumatic cylinder. In the embodiment shown, the actuator 28 is connected, such as pivotably connected, to the equipment 60 at a location below the first revolute joint P1.

[0077]

[0077] The hydraulic cylinder may affect articulation of the bottom section 20 in the second unfolding direction F2’, such as by contraction of the actuator 28, such as pulling the bottom section 20 in the second unfolding direction F2’. Thereby, the bottom section 20 is affecting articulation of the head section 30 in the first unfolding direction F1 ’ as indicated in FIG. 7. Once the conveyor 10 has assumed the operative position, the actuator 28 may act to lock the conveyor 10 in the operative position.

[0078] Conversely, the actuator 28 may affect articulation of the bottom section 20 in the second folding direction F2 by expansion of the actuator 28, as indicated in FIG. 3, such as pushing the bottom section in the second folding direction. As described hereinbefore, articulation of the head section 30 in the first folding direction F1 may urge the bottom section 30 to articulate in the second folding direction F2, and the head section 20 articulating to the equilibrium point in response to gravity G. Hence, the lever 35 may be configured such that articulation of the head section 30 in the first folding direction F1 urges the bottom section 30 to articulate in the second folding direction F2.

[0078]

[0079] Alternatively, the actuator 28 may connect to the equipment 60 at a location above the first revolute joint P1 such that the bottom section 30 articulates in the second folding direction F2 is response to contraction of the actuator 28. Consequently, the bottom section then articulates in the second unfolding direction F2’ in response to expansion of the actuator 28.

[0079]

[0080] 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 actuator 28, in the present embodiment a hydraulic cylinder.

[0080]

[0081] The actuator 28 may be controllable, such as electronically or hydraulically, 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.

[0081]

[0082] 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 a 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. 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 a 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.

[0082]

[0083] 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.

[0083]

[0084] 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.

[0084]

[0085] 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.

[0085]

[0086] 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.

[0086] ITEMS

[0087] Item 1 . Articulated conveyor 10 for earth material processing equipment 60, such as a mobile crusher, the conveyor comprising: a bottom section 20 having 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 proximal end 31 forming at least one second revolute joint P2 with a bottom section distal end portion 22, at least one suspender 45 for suspending the conveyor 10 from the equipment 60 in an unfolded operative position wherein the conveyor during use projects from the equipment 60; wherein the conveyor is allowed to articulate during use between the operative position and a folded transport position where the conveyor during use is folded at the equipment 60, and wherein 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.

[0088] Item 2. The conveyor 10 according to item 1 , wherein the head section 30 is 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.

[0089] Item 3. The conveyor 10 according to item 1 or 2, wherein the suspender 45 is under tension until the head section reaches an equilibrium point.

[0090] Item 4. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 3, wherein the suspender is a tension-only member.

[0091] Item 5. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items, 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.

[0092] Item 6. The conveyor 10 according to the preceding item 5, wherein the head section proximal end portion defines a lever 35 in relation to the second revolute joint P2 for facilitating the second moment M2, wherein the lever comprises an anchor point 36 for connecting the suspender 45.

[0093] Item 7. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 6, further comprising a plurality of rollers 50, 50’ for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position, wherein 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.

[0094] Item 8. The conveyor 10 according to the preceding item 7, 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 9. The conveyor 10 according to the preceding item 8, wherein the mechanical transmission 40 comprises: a first gear 41 , 42 provided on one of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30, wherein the first gear 41 , 42 is rotatable relative said one of the bottom section and the head section, and a second gear 41 , 42 provided on the other of the bottom section 20 and the head section 30, wherein the second gear 41 , 42 is stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section, wherein the second gear 41 , 42 is arranged in driving engagement with the first gear 41 , 42, and wherein the first gear 41 , 42 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 10. The conveyor 10 according to the preceding item 9, 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 11. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 10, 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.

[0098] Item 12. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 11 , further comprising actuation means 28 connected to the bottom section 20, wherein the actuation means 28 are configured to cooperate with the equipment 60 and operable for displacing the bottom section 20 at least in the second folding direction F2 during use.

[0099] Item 13. The conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 12, wherein the actuation means 28 is electronically controllable from a remote location.

[0100] Item 14. The conveyor according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 13, wherein the [a] bottom section distal end portion 22 and the head section proximal end portion 31 comprises respective locking surfaces 27, 37 configured to be brought into abutment in the operative position for arresting articulation of the conveyor 10, such as in the first and second unfolding directions F1 , F2, beyond the operative position. Item 15. An earth material processing equipment 60, such as a mobile crusher, comprising the articulated conveyor 10 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 14.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Articulated conveyor (10) for earth material processing equipment (60), such as a mobile crusher, the conveyor comprising: a bottom section (20) having a bottom section proximal end portion (21) configured to be pivotably coupled to the equipment (60) via one or more first revolute joint (P1); a head section (30) having a proximal end portion (31 ) pivotably coupled to a bottom section distal end portion (22) of the bottom section (20) via one or more second revolute joint (P2), at least one suspender (45) configured to suspend the conveyor (10) from the equipment (60) in an unfolded operative position wherein the conveyor (10) projects from the first revolute joint (P1); wherein the conveyor (10) is configured to articulate in a vertical plane (V) between the operative position and a folded transport position where the conveyor (10) is folded at the first revolute joint (P1 ), and wherein articulation of the head section (30) from the operative position towards the transport position in a first folding direction (F1) is assisted by gravity (G); at least one actuator (28) for driving articulation of the conveyor (10) to the transport position wherein preferably the bottom section (20) and the head section (30) are aligned generally vertical or parallel or vertical and parallel.

2. The conveyor (10) according to claim 1 , wherein the first folding direction (F1) is directed generally downwards and proximal to the first revolute joint (P1), and wherein the second folding direction (F2) is directed generally upwards and proximal to the first revolute joint (P1).

3. The conveyor (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the head section (30) is configured to articulate from the transport position to the operative position in a first unfolding direction (F1 ’) that is directed generally upwards and distal to the first revolute joint (P1) and / or the equipment (60).

4. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the bottom section (20), such as the bottom section distal end portion (22), is configured to articulate from the transport position to the operative position in a second unfolding direction (F2’) that is directed generally downwards and distal to the first revolute joint (P1) and / or the equipment (60).

5. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, wherein the head section (30) is 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 the second folding direction (F2) that is opposite the first folding direction (F1 ).

6. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, wherein the suspender (45) is under tension until the head section (30) hasarticulated in the first folding direction (F1) to an equilibrium point where the head section (30) is aligned vertically.

7. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, wherein the suspender (45) is a tension-only member, such as a cable.

8. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, 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).

9. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, wherein the head section proximal end portion (31) defines a lever (35) in relation to the second revolute joint (P2), the lever (35) connecting to the suspender (45).

10. The conveyor (10) according to the preceding claim 9, wherein the suspender (45) connects to the lever (35) at one of an upper side (1 1) or lower side (12) of the head section (20) in the operative position.

11. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 10, further comprising a plurality of rollers (50, 50’) for supporting a conveyor belt in the operative position, wherein 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.

12. The conveyor (10) according to the preceding claim 11 , 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.

13. The conveyor (10) according to the preceding claim 12, wherein the mechanical transmission (40) comprises: a first gear (41 , 42) provided on one of the bottom section (20) and the head section (30), wherein the first gear (41 , 42) is rotatable relative said one of the bottom section and the head section, and a second gear (41 , 42) provided on the other of the bottom section (20) and the head section (30), wherein the second gear (41 , 42) is stationary relative said other of the bottom section and the head section, wherein the second gear (41 , 42) is arranged in driving engagement with the first gear (41 , 42), andwherein the first gear (41 , 42) is operably coupled to the at least one displaceable roller (50) for displacing the roller (50) between the protruding configuration and the retracted configuration.

14. The conveyor (10) according to the preceding claim 13, 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).

15. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 14, wherein the head section (30) is allowed to articulate under the action of gravity (G), such as to the equilibrium point, 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, wherein the lever (35) is configured such that articulation of the head section (30) in the first folding direction (F1 ) urges the bottom section (20) to articulate in the second folding direction (F2).

17. The conveyor (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 16, further comprising at least one actuator (28) connected to the bottom section (20), wherein the actuator (28) is configured to cooperate with the equipment (60) and operable for displacing the bottom section (20) in one or more of the second folding direction (F2) and the second unfolding direction (F2’) during use.

18. The conveyor (10) according to claim 17, wherein the actuator (28) is controllable from a remote location, such as by a wired, wireless or hydraulic connection.

19. The conveyor according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 18, wherein the bottom section distal end portion (22) and the head section proximal end portion (31) comprises respective locking surfaces (27, 37) configured to be brought into abutment in the operative position for arresting articulation of the conveyor (10), such as in a first and second unfolding directions (F1 ’, F2’), beyond the operative position.

20. 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 18.21 . The earth material processing equipment (60) according to claim 20, wherein the bottom section proximal end portion (21 ) is pivotably coupled to the equipment (60).

22. The earth material processing equipment (60) according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein the at least one suspender (45) connects to the equipment (60) at a position above the first revolute joint (P1) such that the conveyor 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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