Mobile power supply nexus for industrial machinery

Abstract

Provided is mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement (20) for industrial machinery (12). The nexus arrangement (20) comprises a mobile platform (22) configured for traversing industrial areas, and an electrical cable reeling assembly (24) comprising an electrical input spool (26) onto or from which an input electrical cable (28) is spoolable, and an electrical output spool (30) onto or from which an output electrical cable (32) is spoolable. At least the output spool (30) is configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable by receiving an electrical cable such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate heat transfer therefrom. Nexus arrangement (20) also includes a power converter (34) mounted to the mobile platform (22) and configured to convert a higher voltage from the electrical input (28) to a lower voltage for the electrical output (32) to facilitate electrical transmission efficiency, and an electromechanical drive (36) configured to drive the mobile platform (22) and having an electrochemical energy storage (38) operatively suppliable from either of the input (28) or output (32). Also included is a guide boom (40) arranged on the mobile platform (22) and manipulable to guide the output electrical cable (32) to an industrial machine (12).

Description

MOBILE POWER SUPPLY NEXUS FOR INDUSTRIAL MACHINERYTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates broadly to electrical industrial and mining machinery, and more speci fically to a mobile power supply nexus arrangement for such electrical industrial machinery .BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only . The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application .

[0003] For the last several decades , mining has generally relied on diesel-powered machinery, which tends to be hot and noisy while generating particulate emissions harmful to the environment . With the advent of more modern environmentally- f riendlier or similar ' green' technologies , the mining and industrial sectors are moving to a new generation of industrial machinery and equipment that is powered by electricity, generally being a cleaner, cooler and more ef ficient alternative to conventional diesel-powered machinery . Energy for electri fied equipment and machinery general ly costs less than diesel fuel , and without diesel particulate emissions and an internal combustion process , there is less need for ventilation and cooling, which is a signi ficant cost in mining operations .

[0004] However, supplying heavy machinery such as mining equipment with electrical energy presents its own di f ficulties , as for example mining machinery typically operate in very adverse environments , where tonnes of earth and material are excavated and displaced . Such adverse operating environments pose di f ficultieswhen providing electrical energy to electrically-powered mobile industrial machinery, where dirt and dust contamination is commonplace, equipment is subjected to vigorous vibrations, impact damage can occur frequently, work areas are difficult to access, etc .

[0005] In any mining and associated industrial process, failures, breakages or associated interruptions in energy supply will lead to down-time, which poses significant financial losses to a miner. Machinery that is out of action do not produce saleable product, while still requiring operational expenditure related to mining personnel and machinery maintenance.

[0006] Supplying mining equipment with electrical power is particularly difficult in certain situations. For example, surface mining may occur across benches of an ore body at different levels, e.g. double benching in iron ore surface mining, with an example shown in Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings. In such an example, a multi-bench mine 6 often requires machinery, such as large excavators 12 to excavate material on different levels or benches of the mine 6. With electrical machinery, it is required to supply them with electrical energy via a suitable cable or conductor 16.

[0007] Conventionally, this may be done by a reticulated supply 8 where available, or local generation, which must be provided at the desired voltage level, e.g. 6.6kV for the excavator 12. Such an electrical supply has to be safely positioned over multiple benches and supplied to the excavator 12, often involving a cable reel 10 along with locating or guiding machinery 14 that are tasked with ensuring the supply cable is out of the way of the operating excavator 12.1 at all times.

[0008] Additionally, a distance over which machinery 12 may be supplied with electrical power is limited by power supplyinfrastructure and practices , particularly as heat build-up in conductors is a problem, which further restricts operating capabilities and increases costs . For example , for large excavators that operate on a 6 , 6kV electrical input , large currents are required and resulting electrical distribution losses can be appreciable over distance , which may adversely af fect operating abilities and supply distances .

[0009] As a result , conventional practices of supplying mobile machinery with electrical energy are limited, given the nature of such mobile machinery that is constantly in motion . Additionally, as high voltages are used, safety is paramount , making it di f ficult to ensure a constant and reliable energy supply for excavator 12 while ensuring that the supply cable 16 is out of harm' s way during normal mining operations . As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee , such conventional practices require numerous personnel simply to keep the supply cable safely from damage without interfering with mining practices , making such practices arduous , uneconomical and unreliable .

[0010] The current invention was conceived with these shortcomings in mind .SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The skilled addressee is to appreciate that reference herein to industrial machinery is made in a broad and non-exclusive manner and may comprise various types of electrical industrial machinery, for example electrical excavators , electrical drill rigs , semi-mobile industrial plant , and the like . Such industrial machinery is typically large pieces of equipment and typically requires electrical power in the kilowatt and megawatt range .

[0012] According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement for industrial machinery, said nexus arrangement comprising : a mobile platform configured for traversing industrial areas ; an electrical cable reeling assembly comprising : i . an electrical input spool onto or from which an input electrical cable is spoolable ; and ii . an electrical output spool onto or from which an output electrical cable is spoolable ; wherein at least the output spool is configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable by receiving an electrical cable such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate heat trans fer therefrom; a power converter mounted to the mobile platform and configured to convert a higher voltage from the electrical input to a lower voltage for the electrical output to facilitate electrical transmission ef ficiency; an electromechanical drive configured to drive the mobile platform and operatively suppliable from either of the electrical input or output ; and a guide boom arranged on the mobile platform and manipulable to guide the output electrical cable to an industrial machine , wherein transmission-ef ficient high voltage is convertible and suppliable to a lower voltage mobile industrial machine in the industrial area .

[0013] The skilled addressee is to appreciate that the cable being ' continuously exposed to the atmosphere ' generally comprises the cable not being covered by more cable wound onto the spool , such that at least a portion of the cable is exposed to the atmosphere when wound on the spool to facilitate heat trans fer .

[0014] In an embodiment, the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises input and / or output electrical spools selectable from disc spools, drum spools, or the like.

[0015] In an embodiment, the input spool is configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable by receiving an electrical cable such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate heat transfer therefrom.

[0016] In an embodiment, at least the electrical output spool comprises active cooling for facilitating heat transfer from the electrical output cable.

[0017] In an embodiment, both the input and output spools comprise active cooling for heat transfer from the respective cables .

[0018] In an embodiment, the active cooling is selectable from a fan configured to circulate air through the spool for convective heat transfer, with or without heat sink structures, a closed- circuit fluid heat exchanger, and / or phase-change cooling.

[0019] In an embodiment, the input and output spools comprise disc spools that are rotatably mounted to the mobile platform with one disc spool overlapping the other.

[0020] In an embodiment, at least the output spool comprises a drum spool having two flanges at either end defining an arbor, and a plurality of rods interspaced between said flanges to form a barrel configured to facilitate atmospheric convection for cooling a cable wound on said barrel.

[0021] In an embodiment, the input spool comprises a drum spool having two flanges at either end defining an arbor, and a pluralityof rods interspaced between said flanges to form a barrel configured to facilitate atmospheric convection for cooling a cable wound on said barrel

[0022] In an embodiment, the input and output drum spools are mounted on the mobile platform with the respective arbours in a substantially horizontal orientation.

[0023] In an embodiment, the output spool comprises a disc spool having a spindle with flanges on either end thereof, said spindle dimensioned such that the flanges are separated from each other commensurate to a diameter of the input electrical cable so that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled on the disc spool.

[0024] In an embodiment, the input spool comprises a disc spool having a spindle with flanges on either end thereof, said spindle dimensioned such that the flanges are separated from each other commensurate to a diameter of the output electrical cable so that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled on the disc spool.

[0025] In an embodiment, a ratio of flange diameter to spindle length of a disc spool is at least 10:1.

[0026] In an embodiment, the disc spools are mounted to the mobile platform such that respective spindle axes of the disc spools are substantially parallel.

[0027] In an embodiment, the mobile platform comprises a tracked and / or wheeled platform of sufficient robustness for traversing industrial areas.

[0028] In an embodiment, the mobile power supply nexus comprises a housing enclosing at least the electrical output spool, said housing configured to shield said spool from direct sunlight to facilitate cooling of cable on said spool.

[0029] In an embodiment, the housing includes active cooling for facilitating heat transfer from the electrical cable.

[0030] In an embodiment, the electrical input spool is mounted proximate a rear of the mobile platform, and the electrical output spool is mounted proximate a front of the mobile platform, the guide boom further positioned at a front of the mobile platform.

[0031] In an embodiment, the electrical cable reeling assembly is mounted on top of the mobile platform.

[0032] In an embodiment, the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises a tensioner configured to maintain a desired tension in either of the input and / or output electrical cable as such cable is spooled onto or from the respective spools.

[0033] In an embodiment, the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises actuators for spooling the respective spools.

[0034] In an embodiment, the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises a cable guide configured to guide the input electrical cable for spooling on or from the input spool.

[0035] In an embodiment, the guide boom is configured to guide the output electrical cable for spooling on or from the output spool .

[0036] In an embodiment, the power converter comprises a transformer configured to convert a higher voltage electricalinput to a lower voltage electrical output, e.g. llkV to 6, 6kV, or the like.

[0037] In an embodiment, the power converter comprises active cooling .

[0038] In an embodiment, the nexus arrangement comprises electrical switchgear for isolating the electrical input and / or output for safety purposes.

[0039] In an embodiment, the nexus arrangement comprises electrochemical energy storage, such as a plurality of electrochemical cells, for storing electrical energy.

[0040] In an embodiment, the electromechanical drive comprises an electric motor operatively supplied with electrical energy from the electrical input and / or output and / or an electrochemical energy storage.

[0041] In an embodiment, the electromechanical drive comprises electrical charging circuitry configured to charge said electrochemical cells from either of the electrical input or output .

[0042] In an embodiment, the electromechanical drive comprises an internal combustion engine as a backup should the electrochemical energy storage be depleted.

[0043] In an embodiment, the nexus arrangement comprises a control system configured to control the electrical cable reeling assembly, power converter, drive and / or guide boom as required.

[0044] In an embodiment, the nexus arrangement comprises a wireless remote-control interface with the control system andconfigured to enable remote control and manoeuvring of the nexus arrangement .

[0045] In an embodiment , the guide boom is manipulable to guide the output electrical cable to the industrial machine via the air and without touching the ground .

[0046] In an embodiment , the guide boom comprises a tension sensor whereby the control system is able to monitor and control a tension in the output electrical cable to the industrial machine .

[0047] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided an industrial area, such as a mine site , comprising a mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement for industrial machinery, in accordance with the above aspect of the invention .

[0048] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a mobile power supply nexus arrangement for industrial machinery, and an industrial area, such as a mine site , having such a mobile power supply nexus arrangement , substantially as herein described and / or illustrated .BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :Figure 1 is a diagrammatic overview representation of a conventional multi-bench mine site with an electrical supply for an electrical excavator ;Figure 2 is diagrammatic front perspective-view representation of one embodiment of a mobile power supply nexus arrangement for industrial machinery, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;Figure 3 is a diagrammatic rear perspective-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 3 ;Figure 4 is a diagrammatic side-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 3 ;Figure 5 is a diagrammatic top-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 3 ;Figure 6 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 3 ;Figure 7 is a diagrammatic rear perspective-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 3 ;Figure 8 is a diagrammatic top perspective-view representation of another embodiment of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement , in accordance with aspects of the present invention;Figure 9 is a diagrammatic side perspective-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 8 ;Figure 10 is a diagrammatic rear perspective-view representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 8 ;Figure 11 is a diagrammatic overview representation of the mobile power supply nexus arrangement of Figure 2 or Figure 8 ; and Figure 12 is a broad overview representation of a further embodiment of a mobile power supply nexus arrangement , in accordance with aspects of the present invention .DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0049] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof . This description is included solely for the purposes of exempli fying the present invention to the skilledaddressee . It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above .

[0050] In the figures , incorporated to illustrate features of the example embodiment or embodiments , like reference numerals are used to identi fy like parts throughout . Additionally, features , mechanisms and aspects well-known and understood in the art will not be described in detail , as such features , mechanisms and aspects will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee .

[0051] Addit ionally, the accompanying figures do not represent engineering or design drawings , but provide a functional overview of the invention only . As a result , features and practical construction details required for various embodiments may not be indicated in each figure , but such construction requirements will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee .

[0052] Broadly, the present invention provides for a mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement 20 for industrial machinery, as exempli fied by an electrical mining excavator 12 . Of course , such industrial machinery 12 may take a variety of forms , as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee . Such a nexus arrangement 20 broadly comprises a mobile platform 22 , an electrical cable reeling assembly 24 of speci fic configuration, a power converter 34 , electromechanical drive 36 , and guide boom 40 , as described in more detail below .

[0053] The skilled addressee will further appreciate that reference to a spool or reel broadly comprises some manner of winder onto which a filamentous element , such as an electrical cable or conductor can be wound . Such a spool generally comprises a central spindle with flanges at either end thereof to keep a wound filamentous element on said spindle . In one embodiment , thenexus arrangement 20 comprises a cable reeling assembly 24 that uses speci fically-configured disc spools 26 and 30 in order to achieve a desired outcome . In another embodiment , the nexus arrangement 20 comprises drum spools 54 and 56 , as described in more detail below .

[0054] Importantly, however, the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 comprises at least the output spool 30 or 56 , with the output cable generally trans ferring higher current than the input cable , this generating more heat , being configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable by receiving an electrical cable such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate heat trans fer therefrom . In some embodiments , the input spool 26 or 54 may similarly be configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable wound thereon, as will become apparent to the skilled addressee in light of this disclosure .

[0055] In general , the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 is speci fically configured to avoid multiple layers of cable on a spool that would cause the cable to be derated during use . Such derating typically occurs via overheating, or incorrect handling, with examples hereof found in, for example , Australian Standard AS / NZS 2802 : 2000 or the International Standard IEC 60184 - 1 : 2019 relating to trailing cables for industrial machinery .

[0056] In particular, supplying large industrial machinery with electrical power is problematic, as such machinery 12 may be mobile and require a similarly mobile power supply . Additionally, industrial machinery 12 may require signi ficant electrical power that cannot be local ly generated and typically requires mains or grid power, rather than power locally-generated by means of portable generators , or the like . As a result , there exist a needto supply large amounts of power from a mains or grid supply to mobile machinery in a safe and ef ficient manner .

[0057] With regard to power transmission ef ficiency, it is well-established that power transmission at higher voltage levels generally minimises resistive conductor losses , as such resistive losses are proportional to current flowing in a conductor . Accordingly, i f a remotely-generated mains or grid power supply is transmissible at higher voltage levels with subsequent voltage conversion occurring at or near a load, signi ficant power transmission ef ficiencies are achievable . The conventional solution shown in Figure 1 does not readily allow for this .

[0058] Similarly, transmitting high power levels via conductors , especially at lower voltage levels , causes heat buildup in conductors as a result of higher current with associated Joule heating of the conductor . As large industrial machinery, such as mining excavator 12 , requires signi ficant power at lower than mains or grid power voltage levels , conventional techniques require the transmission of lower voltage power over distance , which causes signi ficant heat build-up in reeled cables or conductor, where lengths of cable are typically layered on top of each other on a reel , which prevents or impedes cooling via atmospheric convection and radiation . As a result , such heat buildup and power requirements typically limit a distance over which electrical energy is practically suppliable on industrial sites , such as mine sites , where mains or grid power is not readily available . The mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement 20 as described herein has been developed to ameliorate the above shortcomings in the art of mobile electrical power supply to industrial machinery .

[0059] With reference now to Figures 2 to 7 of the accompanying drawings , there is exempli fied one embodiment of the mobile powersupply nexus or hub arrangement 20 for industrial machinery 12 . The nexus arrangement 20 broadly comprises a mobile platform 22 which is configured for traversing industrial areas , such as mine sites , or the like . The mobile platform 22 may take a variety of forms , depending on requirements . In the exempli fied embodiment , the mobile platform 22 comprises a tracked platform, such as a conventional tracked mobile hydraulic power unit used with excavators , cranes , etc . Of course , variations hereon are possible , such as a wheeled platform of suf ficient robustness for traversing industrial areas , or the like . Mobile platform 22 may comprise slew capabilities ,

[0060] In the exempli fied embodiment , nexus arrangement 20 comprises the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 which comprises an electrical input disc spool 26 onto or from which an input electrical cable 28 is spoolable , and an electrical output disc spool 30 onto or from which an output electrical cable 32 is spoolable . As the power converter reduces voltage levels from the input 28 to the output 32 , as described in more detail below, in one embodiment at least the output disc spool 30 is configured to receive an electrical cable such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate cooling thereof . In contrast to conventional cable reels , where cables are spooled in layers that cover a previous layer, the disc spools 26 and 30 of the nexus arrangement 20 is configured so that a spooled cable is at all times exposed to the atmosphere to facilitate cooling via convection and radiation of build-up heat to the atmosphere .

[0061] To achieve this , at least the output disc spool 30 typically comprises a spindle 44 with flanges 46 on either end thereof , as shown, with the spindle 44 dimensioned such that the flanges 46 are separated from each other commensurate to a diameter of the output electrical cable 32 so that the cable is continuouslyexposed to the atmosphere when spooled on the disc spool 30 . In other words , the disc spool 30 typically comprises a large and wide flange 46 with a shorter spindle 44 , so that when the cable is spooled thereon the sides of the cable are generally exposed to the atmosphere via the flanges 46 , rather than being layered underneath subsequent layers of cable during spooling . In one embodiment , a ratio of the flange 46 diameter to spindle 44 length is at least 10 : 1 , but of course variations hereon are possible and anticipated .

[0062] For example , the disc spool 30 may be configured via suitable spindle 44 and flange 46 dimensions such that two layers of spooled cable is able to lie side-by-side so that one side is exposed to the atmosphere , or the like . In addition, each flange 46 generally includes convection apertures , as shown, to facilitate airflow to the cable spooled on the disc . In another embodiment , the disc spool 30 may comprise active cooling 33 , such as a fan, or the like and described in more detail below, to facilitate cooling of the lower voltage higher current electrical output cable 32 .

[0063] In the exempli fied embodiment , the input disc spool 26 is also similarly configured to receive the input electrical cable 28 such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate cooling thereof . As with the output disc spool 30 , the input disc spool 26 comprises a spindle 44 with flanges 46 on either end thereof , the spindle 44 similarly dimensioned such that the flanges 46 are separated from each other commensurate to a diameter of the input electrical cable so that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled on the disc spool . However, as the input electrical cable 28 typically carries a higher voltage than the output cable 32 , the input disc spool 26 may comprise a conventional cable reel as this cable may not require cooling during operation .

[0064] The electrical cable reeling assembly 24 is typically rotatably mounted on top of the mobile platform 22 with one disc spool 26 overlapping the other 30 , as shown . Such an overlapping arrangement makes for a compact footprint . In one embodiment , the disc spools 26 and 30 are mounted to the mobile platform 22 such that respective spindle 44 axes of the disc spools are substantially parallel , as shown . Of course , variations hereon are possible and expected . For example , each disc spool may be mounted at a relative angle , or upright , or the like .

[0065] In the exempli fied embodiment , the electrical input disc spool 26 is mounted proximate a rear of the mobile platform 22 , and the electrical output disc spool 32 is mounted proximate a front of the mobile platform 22 , with the guide boom 40 further positioned at a front of the mobile platform 22 , as shown . Such an arrangement allows the electrical input cable 28 to be received at the rear of the mobile platform 22 , with the electrical output cable 32 'dispensed' or guided from the guide boom at the front of the platform 22 . However, variations hereon are possible and anticipated .

[0066] In one embodiment , the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 further comprises a tensioner 42 which is configured to maintain a desired tension in either of the input and / or output electrical cables 26 and 32 as such respective cable is spooled onto or from the respective disc spools 26 and 30 . For example , the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 may comprise actuators , such as electrical motors 42 or magnetic drives with or without suitable gearing, which are configured for respectively spooling the respective disc spools during operation, as required . Such tensioners 42 are typically conf igured to monitor and maintain a tension in a cable via a suitable control system 52 , as describedin more detail below, in order to prevent mechanical damage to a cable .

[0067] In one embodiment , the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 comprises a cable guide 48 which is configured to guide the input electrical cable 28 for spooling on or from the input disc spool 26 . The nexus arrangement 20 also includes the guide boom 40 which is arranged on the mobile platform 22 and is manipulable to guide the output electrical cable 32 to an industrial machine , as required . In one embodiment , the guide boom 40 is configured to guide the output electrical cable 32 for spooling on or from the output disc spool 30 . In one embodiment , the guide boom 40 may be manipulable to guide the output electrical cable 32 to the industrial machine via the air and without touching the ground, or the like .

[0068] In one embodiment , the guide boom 40 may comprise a tension sensor (not shown) or similar indexing device whereby the control system 52 is able to monitor and control a tension in the output electrical cable 32 to the industrial machine 12 , or the like . Such a tension sensor is again to ensure a mechanical integrity of the output cable 32 , and is typically controlled via the control system 52 , or the like .

[0069] Importantly, the nexus arrangement 20 also includes a power converter 34 mounted to the mobile platform 22 and which is generally configured to convert a higher voltage from the electrical input 28 to a lower voltage for the electrical output 32 to facilitate electrical transmission ef ficiency . In one embodiment , the power converter 34 comprises a trans former which is configured to convert an l l kV electrical input to a 6 , 6kV electrical output . Of course , variations hereon are possible and within the scope of the present invention . For example , a 44 kV or 66kV input may be converted to a 6 , 6kV output , a 3 , 3kV output , a400V output, or the like. Similarly, power converter 34 may comprise a power electronic switching converter, or the like, and / or the power converter 34 may be configured to provide a plurality of outputs each at different voltage levels, etc. In this manner, a transmission efficient high voltage input, such as llkV, is convertible and suppliable proximate a lower voltage mobile industrial machine 12 in the industrial area. The power converter 34 may also include active cooling to facilitate heat dispersion .

[0070] In one embodiment, the power converter 34 comprises a neutral earthing resistor (NER) earth continuity protection back to an electrical power supply system via the input electrical cable 28. In one embodiment, the nexus arrangement 20 further comprises electrical switchgear, such as the components diagrammatically indicated in Figure 11, for isolating the electrical input 28 and / or output 32 for safety purposes and operational reasons. Such switchgear is well-known in the art and may include switches, circuit breakers, safety switches, residual current devices, and the like.

[0071] In a typical embodiment, the nexus arrangement 20 comprises a control system 52 which is configured to control the electrical cable reeling assembly 24, power converter 34, drive 36 and / or guide boom 40, as required. Such machinery control systems are well-known in the art and will not be described in detail herein, e.g. CAN bus network control, or the like. Such a control system 52 may include suitable sensors, such as cameras, lidar and radar in order to facilitate situational awareness for autonomous cable handling, as is known in the art. In one embodiment, the nexus arrangement 20 also comprises a wireless remote-control interface with the control system and configured to enable remote control and manoeuvring of the nexus arrangement 20, such as via a mobile device 50, or the like. The control system 52 may furtherbe configured for integration with industrial site control systems , such as mine control networks or related Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition ( SCADA) systems for diagnostics and telemetry, and the like .

[0072] The nexus arrangement 20 also includes an electromechanical drive 36 which is configured to drive the mobile platform 22 which is operatively suppliable from either of the input 28 or output 32 . For example , a recti former or similar power electronic converters for converting powers from either of the electrical input or output 26 or 18 for use by the electromechanical drive 36 , or the like . In one embodiment , the electromechanical drive 36 comprises an electric motor operatively supplied from an electrochemical energy storage 38 . In one embodiment , the electrochemical energy storage 38 comprises a plurality of electrochemical cel ls , such as a battery . In one embodiment , the electrochemical energy storage 38 comprises electrical charging circuitry (not shown) which is configured to charge said electrochemical cells from either of the electrical input 26 or output 28 .

[0073] For example , such electrical charging circuitry may draw electric energy from the power converter 34 in one embodiment , such as a recti former, a power electronic switching converter, or the like , but of course variations hereon are possible and expected . In one embodiment , the electromechanical drive 36 may comprise an internal combustion engine as a backup should the electrochemical energy storage 38 be depleted .

[0074] With reference now to Figures 8 to 10 of the accompanying figures , there is shown another embodiment of the nexus arrangement 20 . The nexus arrangement 20 of this embodiment is similar to the embodiment of Figures 2 to 7 described above , but the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 has a di f ferent configuration to providesimilar functionality of enabling high-voltage energy supply to be converted to a lower-voltage energy supply at the load, being the industrial machinery such as mobile excavator 12 . In this embodiment , the electrical cable reeling assembly 24 comprises electrical drum spools 54 and 56 , rather than di sc spools 26 and 30 . Generally, the reeling assembly comprises at least the output drum spool 54 onto or from which the low-voltage high-current output electrical cable 32 is spoolable . However, in the exempli fied embodiment , both input and output drum spools 54 and 56 have speci fic configurations to facilitate heat trans fer and dispersal , as follows .

[0075] The drum spools 54 and 56 each comprise two flanges 58 arranged at either end and defining an arbor 60 , via which the spools 54 and 56 are typically mounted on the mobile platform 22 . Each drum spool 54 and 56 further comprise a plurality of rods 62 that are interspaced between said flanges 58 , as shown, to form a barrel 64 which i s configured to facilitate atmospheric convection for cooling a cable wound on said barrel 64 . By having such interspaced rods 62 , which are interspaced to provide large apertures whilst still functioning as a spool barrel , air can easily pass through the drum spool via convection . In this manner, an electrical cable wound on the barrel 64 is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate cooling thereo f . As with the embodiment of Figures 2 to 7 , a single layer of cable is generally wound onto the drum spools .

[0076] In one embodiment , the input and output drum spools 54 and 56 are mounted on the mobile platform 22 with the respective arbours 60 in a substantially hori zontal orientation . Of course , variations hereon are possible and expected without departing from the functionality of the invention . In the exempli fied embodiment , the electrical input drum spool 54 is mounted proximate a rear of the mobile platform 22 , and the electrical output drum spool 56 ismounted proximate a front of the mobile platform 22 , with the guide boom 40 further positioned at a front of the mobile platform, as shown .

[0077] In one embodiment , at least the electrical output spool 30 or 56 comprises active cooling 33 for facilitating heat trans fer from the electrical output cable 32 . In one embodiment , both the input and output spools 26 , 54 and 30 , 56 comprise active cooling 33 for heat trans fer from the respective input and output cables 28 and 32 . The skilled addressee is to appreciate that such active cooling 33 may take various forms , for example one embodiment may include a fan configured to circulate or force air through the relevant spool for convective heat trans fer . The relevant spool may also include or define suitable heat sink structures , such as finds or similar members for increasing a surface area for heat dissipation, or the like . Alternatively, or additionally, the active cooling 33 may comprise a closed-circuit fluid heat exchanger for trans ferring heat from the spool for atmospheric dispersion via a radiator, or the like , and / or phase-change cooling, or the like .

[0078] In such a manner, the power converter 34 , drive 36 , energy storage 38 , and control system 52 , etc . are mounted onto the mobile platform 22 and in-between the input and output drum spools 54 and 56 , as shown . In one embodiment , the nexus arrangement 20 may also include additional components , such as for example photovoltaic cells 66 arranged to energise the electrochemical energy storage 38 , or the like .

[0079] Applicant believes it particularly advantageous that the present invention provides for nexus arrangement 20 which is able ef ficiently to manage electrical cables to minimise mechanical and heat damage thereto in order to improve electrical power delivery for mobile machinery production . Nexus arrangement 20 eliminatesthe need for a separate motivator to move cable reels from an industrial area, cutting down on time and costs, and arrangement 20 offers on-site, high-voltage isolation, enhancing safety and efficiency, which enhances the electrical infrastructure in an industrial area. Nexus arrangement 20 extends operational range, allowing machinery to function up to several kilometres from a mains or grid power source without costly infrastructure expansion, and may significantly reduce cable costs by enabling the use of more economical high-voltage cables, e.g. llkv cables, for power transmission over distances.

[0080] In the example embodiments, well-known processes, well- known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail, as such will be readily understood by the skilled addressee. Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features. Where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0081] It is to be appreciated that reference to "one example" or "an example" of the invention, or similar exemplary language (e.g., "such as") herein, is not made in an exclusive sense. Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein, textually and / or graphically, for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, one example may exemplify certain aspects of the invention, whilst other aspects are exemplified in a different example. These examples are intended to assist the skilled person in performing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way unless thecontext clearly indicates otherwise. Variations (e.g. modifications and / or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application.

[0082] The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and / or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the claimed subject matter) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. 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. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement for industrial machinery, said nexus arrangement comprising : a mobile platform configured for traversing industrial areas ; an electrical cable reeling assembly comprising : i . an electrical input spool onto or from which an input electrical cable is spoolable ; and ii . an electrical output spool onto or from which an output electrical cable is spoolable ; wherein at least the output spool is configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable by receiving an electrical cable such that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate heat trans fer therefrom; a power converter mounted to the mobile platform and configured to convert a higher voltage from the electrical input to a lower voltage for the electrical output to facilitate electrical transmission ef ficiency; an electromechanical drive configured to drive the mobile platform and operatively suppliable from either of the electrical input or output ; and a guide boom arranged on the mobile platform and manipulable to guide the output electrical cable to an industrial machine , wherein transmission-ef ficient high voltage is convertible and suppliable to a lower voltage mobile industrial machine in the industrial area .2 . The nexus arrangement of claim 1 , wherein the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises input and / or output electrical spools selectable from disc spools , drum spools , or the like .3 . The nexus arrangement of either of claims 1 or 2 , wherein the input spool is configured to facilitate passive cooling of cable by receiving an electrical cable such that the cable iscontinuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled to facilitate heat trans fer therefrom .4 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 3 , wherein at least the electrical output spool comprises active cooling for facilitating heat trans fer or dissipation from the electrical output cable .5 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 3 , wherein both the input and output spools comprise active cooling for facilitating heat trans fer or dissipation from the respective cables .6 . The nexus arrangement of either of claims 4 or 5 , wherein the active cooling is selectable from a fan configured to circulate air through the spool for convective heat trans fer, with or without heat sink structures , a closed-circuit fluid heat exchanger, and / or phase-change cooling .7 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the input and output spools comprise disc spools that are rotatably mounted to the mobile platform with one disc spool overlapping the other .8 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the output spool comprises a disc spool having a spindle with flanges on either end thereof , said spindle dimensioned such that the flanges are separated from each other commensurate to a diameter of the input electrical cable so that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled on the disc spool .9 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the input spool comprises a disc spool having a spindle with flanges on either end thereof , said spindle dimensioned such that theflanges are separated from each other commensurate to a diameter of the output electrical cable so that the cable is continuously exposed to the atmosphere when spooled on the disc spool .10 . The nexus arrangement of either of claims 8 or 9 , wherein a ratio of flange diameter to spindle length of a disc spool is at least 10 : 1 .11 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 7 to 10 , wherein the disc spools are mounted to the mobile platform such that respective spindle axes of the disc spools are substantially parallel .12 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 6 , wherein at least the output spool comprises a drum spool having two flanges at either end defining an arbor, and a plurality of rods interspaced between said flanges to form a barrel configured to facilitate atmospheric convection for cooling a cable wound on said barrel .13 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the input spool comprises a drum spool having two flanges at either end defining an arbor, and a plurality of rods interspaced between said flanges to form a barrel configured to facilitate atmospheric convection for cooling a cable wound on said barrel14 . The nexus arrangement of either of claims 12 or 13 , wherein the input and output drum spools are mounted on the mobile platform with the respective arbours in a substantially hori zontal orientation .15 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 14 , wherein the mobile platform comprises a tracked and / or wheeled platform of suf ficient robustness for traversing industrial areas .16 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 15 , which comprises a housing enclosing at least the electrical output spool , said housing configured to shield said spool from direct sunlight to facilitate cooling of cable on said spool .17 . The nexus arrangement of claim 16 , wherein the housing includes active cooling for facilitating heat trans fer from the electrical cable .18 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 17 , wherein the electrical input spool is mounted proximate a rear of the mobile platform, and the electrical output spool is mounted proximate a front of the mobile platform, the guide boom further positioned at a front of the mobile platform .19 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 18 , wherein the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises a tensioner configured to maintain a des ired tension in either of the input and / or output electrical cable as such cable is spooled onto or from the respective spools .20 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 19 , wherein the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises actuators for spooling the respective spools .21 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 20 , wherein the electrical cable reeling assembly comprises a cable guide configured to guide the input electrical cable for spooling on or from the input spool .22 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the guide boom is configured to guide the output electrical cable for spooling on or from the output spool .23 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 22 , wherein the power converter comprises a trans former configured to convert a higher voltage electrical input to a lower voltage electrical output .24 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 23 , which comprises electrical switchgear for isolating the electrical input and / or output for safety purposes .25 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 24 , which comprises electrochemical energy storage , such as a plurality of electrochemical cells , for storing electrical energy .26 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 25 , wherein the electromechanical drive comprises an electric motor operatively supplied with electrical energy from the electrical input and / or output and / or, via claim 25 , the electrochemical energy storage .27 . The nexus arrangement of claim 26 , wherein the electromechanical drive comprises electrical charging circuitry configured to charge said electrochemical cells from either of the electrical input or output .28 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 27 , which comprises a control system configured to control the electrical cable reeling assembly, power converter, drive and / or guide boom as required .29 . The nexus arrangement of claim 28 , which comprises a wireless remote-control interface with the control system and configured to enable remote control and manoeuvring of the nexus arrangement .30 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 29 , wherein the guide boom is manipulable to guide the output electrical cable to the industrial machine via the air and without touching the ground .31 . The nexus arrangement of any of claims 1 to 30 , wherein the guide boom comprises a tension sensor whereby the control system is able to monitor and control a tension in the output electrical cable to the industrial machine .32 . An industrial area, such as a mine site , comprising a mobile power supply nexus or hub arrangement for industrial machinery, in accordance with any of claims 1 to 31 .

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