Removal tunnel for removing bulk material from a bulk material pile

Abstract

The invention relates to a removal tunnel (1) for removing bulk material (2) from a bulk material pile (3), comprising at least two tunnel units (4) for arranging in the bottom region (5) of the bulk material pile (3), wherein each tunnel unit (4) has a housing (6) for covering the tunnel unit (4) at least on the upper and lateral sides facing the bulk material pile (3) in the use state, and for forming a passage space (7) within the tunnel unit (4), wherein in the passage space (7) each tunnel unit (4) has at least one conveying device (9) for removing the bulk material (2), wherein the conveying device (9) of a tunnel unit (4) is designed to transfer and / or eject the bulk material (2) to the adjacent conveying device (9) of the adjacent tunnel unit (4) or to eject the bulk material out of the removal tunnel (1).

Description

[0001] Discharge tunnel for removing bulk material from a bulk material dump

[0002] The invention relates to a discharge tunnel for conveying bulk material from a bulk material dump.

[0003] The invention particularly relates to the technical field of discharge devices for bulk material piled up into a bulk material heap, in particular the transport of bulk material stored in stockpiles. The bulk material is preferably gravel and / or a free-flowing bulk material.

[0004] It is known in the art to use discharge devices beneath stockpiles. The stockpile is then built onto the discharge device. The discharge devices have one or more bulk material inlet openings. The bulk material can be transferred through these inlet openings into a discharge tunnel of the discharge device. This discharge tunnel has a roof-like cover that protects its interior from the ingress of bulk material. A continuous conveyor can then be arranged in the discharge tunnel, which can transport the bulk material introduced through the inlet openings.

[0005] A disadvantage of the prior art extraction systems is that they are very costly to install. This is due to the considerable effort involved in transporting the extraction systems. Firstly, the cover of the extraction tunnel is made of concrete, which results in a high weight and complex handling of the entire extraction tunnel. Secondly, adaptability of the extraction tunnel at the installation site is not possible because the extraction tunnel is a rigid, inflexible component. Therefore, if environmental parameters prevail at the installation site that have not been previously taken into account, such as the maximum length that the extraction tunnel can cover, and which conflict with the planned installation, it is usually not possible to create an appropriately adapted extraction tunnel without considerable effort.

[0006] In practice, the use of discharge devices (of the type mentioned above) is generally avoided. Wheel loaders are used to remove the bulk material, allowing for individually configured removal of the bulk material. A particular advantage of wheel loaders is their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. At the same time, wheel loaders can also be used to remove bulk material from other stockpiles, which cannot be achieved with a discharge device, as this is limited to its installation location. Furthermore, if the bulk material stockpile is relocated - for whatever reason - the wheel loader can also enable the removal of the relocated bulk material stockpile. The discharge device can only continue to enable the removal of the bulk material if the inlet openings remain located below the newly relocated bulk material stockpile, which is usually not the case.A separate, new discharge tunnel must therefore be provided for the relocated bulk material pile, which is associated with considerable costs. By using wheel loaders, these costs can be eliminated from the outset.

[0007] The disadvantage of using wheel loaders, however, is that only the upper bulk material from the bulk material pile can be removed. The bulk material located at the bottom of the bulk material pile can only be collected by the wheel loader once the entire upper section of the bulk material pile has been removed. This means that there is no mixing within the bulk material pile and, in particular, the upper bulk material that can be collected by the wheel loader is damp due to rain or similar, which also has disadvantages. In addition, several wheel loaders are required to remove the bulk material. Since each wheel loader is controlled by a single operator, this method requires a high level of personnel expenditure and thus high operating costs for the gravel plant. Finally, a sufficient number of wheel loaders must always be kept on hand so that sufficient bulk material can be removed and made available when demand is high.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to avoid the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art or at least to substantially reduce them.

[0009] The above object is achieved by a discharge tunnel according to claim 1.

[0010] The discharge tunnel according to the invention can, in particular, form a discharge device and / or a discharge system that can be used in gravel works. In particular, the discharge tunnel is provided for conveying bulk material from a bulk material stockpile. The bulk material stockpile can be constructed and / or filled with gravel by gravel conveyor belts provided externally of the discharge tunnel. The gravel conveyor belts are preferably movable and / or pivotable and thus enable, in particular, an at least substantially uniform construction of the stockpile over the length of the bulk material stockpile. In particular, with a pivotable gravel conveyor belt, the bulk material stockpile is constructed, viewed in plan view, at least substantially in the shape of an arc section and / or an arc segment section.

[0011] The extraction tunnel according to the invention has at least two tunnel units for arrangement in the floor area of ​​the bulk material stockpile. The tunnel units can be directly or indirectly connected to one another. An advantage of the tunnel units is that they are preferably detachably connected or connectable to the floor area of ​​the stockpile. In particular, the extraction tunnel can be dismantled if the extraction tunnel is to be used and / or relocated to another location. This ensures multiple use of the extraction tunnel. Furthermore, transport can also be facilitated by the tunnel units being able to be handled separately from one another and thus also transported separately from one another. In particular, loading onto trains or trucks is possible, which is not readily possible for extraction tunnels known in the prior art.

[0012] Each tunnel unit of the discharge tunnel has an enclosure to cover at least the top and sides of the tunnel unit, facing the bulk material pile when in use, and to create a passageway within the tunnel unit. The enclosure prevents bulk material from penetrating the interior of the discharge tunnel when in use, which could potentially damage the components located in the passageway. The enclosure therefore represents a barrier for the bulk material. The enclosure can extend above the floor of the bulk material pile, but this is not required. In particular, the enclosure ensures isolation from the bulk material pile.

[0013] According to the invention, each tunnel unit has at least one conveyor device for removing the bulk material in the passageway. The conveyor device enables, in particular, the transport of the bulk material supplied via a feed device. Accordingly, the conveyor device is arranged below a feed device and, if necessary, is permanently connected to the feed device. However, the conveyor device can also transport the bulk material without a feed device, in particular by transferring bulk material to the conveyor device by another means. The feed device will be discussed in more detail later. The feed device is a preferred component of the tunnel unit, but does not have to be provided for every tunnel unit.

[0014] The conveyor system is preferably protected from the bulk material pile by the enclosure, thus ensuring it is safely located in the passageway. The passageway also provides access for maintenance personnel if the conveyor system needs to be repaired or serviced. These personnel can then be similarly protected by the enclosure in front of the bulk material pile, which is located above the enclosure.

[0015] When, in the context of the present invention, reference is made to above or below and / or above or below, this refers to the operating state of the discharge tunnel. The discharge tunnel is located in the ground area below the bulk material stockpile, whereby the stockpile is constructed above the discharge tunnel. The ground area of ​​the bulk material stockpile is provided below the enclosure, which can ultimately form the lower boundary of the bulk material stockpile.

[0016] According to the invention, the conveyor device of a tunnel unit is designed to transfer and / or discharge the bulk material to the adjacent conveyor device of the adjacent tunnel unit or to discharge it from the discharge tunnel. In this way, the present invention makes it possible to enable a modular design of the discharge tunnel with multiple tunnel units, in which—unlike in practice—it is not necessary to laboriously install a single conveyor device into the discharge tunnel. According to the invention, the entire flow through the discharge tunnel can therefore be conveyed by using a plurality of conveyor devices that can transfer the bulk material accordingly. Therefore, even though the discharge tunnel can be constructed from separately provided tunnel units, reliable material transport can still be ensured.The provision of multiple conveyor systems in a single extraction tunnel is completely unknown in the state of the art. Consequently, the provision of individually manageable tunnel units, each with at least one conveyor system, represents a departure from the extraction tunnels known in practice.

[0017] Only with the invention has it been recognized that a segmented and / or modular design can still enable a safely deployable discharge tunnel, improving not only the assembly and flexibility of the discharge tunnel but also the removal of the bulk material. According to the invention, the discharge tunnel can be individually adapted to different bulk material dumps.

[0018] The arrangement of the conveyor device in a tunnel unit according to the invention enables, in particular, the division of the discharge tunnel into individual tunnel units in a simple manner and further improves assembly.

[0019] Another particularly advantageous feature of the extraction tunnel according to the invention is that it can be relocated relatively easily. This allows the tunnel units, which in particular also include the conveyor systems, to be transported via regular transport routes, such as overland routes, preferably by freight trains, trucks, or the like. This is not possible with a conventional extraction tunnel. These are generally only assembled once on site and cannot be relocated afterwards. The simple transport of the segmented parts of the extraction tunnel, namely in particular the tunnel units, can thus reduce assembly and transport costs. Furthermore, it also allows the extraction tunnel to be used at different locations.If, for example, the discharge tunnel has to be relocated due to a change in the bulk material stockpile in order to continue to enable optimal removal of the bulk material, the entire discharge tunnel or individual tunnel units can easily be relocated as needed.

[0020] Another advantage is that the discharge tunnel can be reused, for example, at different locations within a gravel pit, or even in different gravel pits. This significantly increases the flexibility of the inventive discharge tunnel's use.

[0021] A further advantage is provided by the individual design of the extraction tunnel. By segmenting the extraction tunnel into individual tunnel units, a shape or course of the extraction tunnel that deviates from a straight alignment of the extraction tunnel can be made possible, if required. In particular, an at least substantially curved section-shaped shape can be ensured by the polygonally connected tunnel units. In practice, only straight, linear extraction tunnels could be provided to date, which the extraction tunnel according to the invention can also enable. However, according to the invention, this is in particular not limited to this shape - in this way, a departure from extraction tunnels known from the prior art can be achieved. Finally, the extraction tunnel according to the invention can be provided individually.

[0022] Consequently, the extraction tunnel according to the invention is particularly advantageous from both an economic and an ecological point of view compared to the extraction tunnels known from the prior art.

[0023] The high individual adaptability of the extraction tunnel according to the invention therefore justifies in particular the reusability of an extraction tunnel of the same or a different construction with the same tunnel units.

[0024] The inventive extraction tunnel is also particularly advantageous from a production-technology perspective. This allows for at least essentially identical tunnel units to be provided for different extraction tunnels, which can be used to construct different extraction tunnels. In particular, a large number of tunnel units can be kept in stock, enabling rapid delivery of extraction tunnels, since not every extraction tunnel needs to be manufactured individually for the customer; rather, the extraction tunnel suitable for the customer can be assembled, in particular, from tunnel units already in stock.

[0025] In this way, the delivery time for a vent tunnel according to the invention is significantly shortened, and storage of the tunnel units can also be drastically simplified. Thus, with appropriate provision, a vent tunnel known from the prior art takes up comparatively a lot of space and, in particular, cannot be adapted to different storage environments. The tunnel units provided according to the invention enable, in particular, compact storage and / or provision of the vent tunnel according to the invention, which also reduces storage costs.

[0026] By providing multiple conveyors, the material flow can also be equalized and / or evened out, particularly by transferring it to adjacent conveyors, which is preferable from a conveying perspective. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present inventive concept, the enclosure has an upper ceiling wall and side walls, and if necessary, a bottom wall. In this context, it is particularly understood that the ceiling wall and the side walls, and in particular also the bottom wall, can merge into one another, thus enabling, in particular, a secure closure or secure protection against the penetration of the bulk material.

[0027] The end faces of the enclosure are, in particular, open at least in some areas, thus allowing the passageways of the individual tunnel units to be connected to one another. The extraction tunnel provided according to the invention can thus have an overall passageway formed by the individual passageways. In particular, this allows maintenance personnel to pass through the entire extraction tunnel.

[0028] If necessary, appropriate transitions, such as steps, can be provided between the individual tunnel units; however, in other embodiments, a stepless transition can also be provided. In this context, it can be provided that the tunnel units can be arranged directly or indirectly adjacent to one another in such a way that unwanted penetration of bulk material into the individual passageways can be prevented, particularly over the length of the discharge tunnel.

[0029] In particular, the upper ceiling wall and the side walls can form and / or have a preferably U-shaped profile in cross-section. A curved ceiling wall is particularly advantageous with regard to the load acting on the ceiling wall, which can be caused by the weight of the bulk material arranged on the ceiling wall. In this way, the weight can be distributed over the outer side of the enclosure. In particular, in further preferred embodiments, the side walls are arranged at least substantially parallel. If necessary, however, the side walls can also be aligned obliquely to one another, particularly if the desired shape of the discharge tunnel requires this.

[0030] Preferably, the ceiling wall, the side walls and / or the base wall is / are designed as outwardly closed components. In particular, the enclosure therefore has no through openings, holes or the like on its outside that would encourage or even enable the penetration of bulk material. However, a closed design does not mean that the enclosure must also be closed at its end faces, with which it can be arranged next to other enclosures if necessary. The closed design of the aforementioned components is to be understood in particular in such a way that at least the area that is directly adjacent to the bulk material pile when in use is closed. In this way, unwanted penetration of bulk material can be prevented.

[0031] The ceiling wall can be made of the same or a different material as the side walls. If necessary, the ceiling wall and / or the side walls can also be reinforced, which will be discussed below with a preferred embodiment.

[0032] The floor wall is optional because it is not absolutely necessary to prevent bulk material from entering the passageway. The floor of the enclosure also forms the floor of the bulk material dump or the subsoil, so that conveying bulk material below the floor of the enclosure is not necessary. However, providing a floor wall is advantageous in order to enable a particularly clean passageway and, for example, to keep any moisture in the ground on which the enclosure is installed away from the passageway or the bulk material transported in the passageway. Cleaning in the passageway can also be improved by providing a predetermined, solid floor wall. The floor wall can - but does not have to - be connected to the side walls.

[0033] The enclosure can be designed as a single-piece component or composed of interconnected parts, in particular parts connected by a material fit, friction fit, and / or form fit, in particular the ceiling wall, the side walls, and, if necessary, the floor wall. It is understood that the enclosure can also comprise further parts in addition to the ceiling wall, the side walls, and, if necessary, the floor wall, particularly if this is required by the shape of the enclosure. Furthermore, a further preferred embodiment provides for at least one connecting element of the extraction tunnel to connect two adjacent tunnel units at the end face.

[0034] The connecting element can thus form an intermediate piece that can enable the transition between two tunnel units. In particular, the connecting element does not have a dedicated conveyor system associated with the connecting element, but rather only allows the passage of at least one conveyor system of an adjacent tunnel unit, so that the conveyor systems of the adjacent tunnel units, separated from each other by the connecting element, are arranged in such a way that the bulk material can be transferred from one conveyor system to the other. This transfer can, for example, take place inside the connecting element.

[0035] Furthermore, the connecting element can be provided in different shapes for the exhaust tunnel. For example, the connecting element can enable a non-straight path of the exhaust tunnel, even if the adjacent tunnel units would otherwise require a straight path. However, with a corresponding design of the connecting element, the same tunnel units can result in a path of the exhaust tunnel that deviates from a straight alignment.

[0036] The connecting elements can therefore be provided as bridging units between adjacent tunnel units.

[0037] In this context, it is understood that a vent tunnel can be formed with or without connecting elements. In particular, a connecting element can be arranged between two adjacent tunnel units, but this is not required. For example, a vent tunnel can be provided, for example, by tunnel units connected to each other via a connecting element, or by tunnel units connected without a connecting element.

[0038] In contrast to the tunnel units, the connecting element is designed differently. To create a vent tunnel, identical or different connecting elements can be used, depending in particular on the desired shape and orientation of the vent tunnel. In particular, however, at least essentially identical tunnel units are used in a vent tunnel, so that the connecting elements can result in a modified course of the tunnel unit.

[0039] The connecting elements can also ensure a tight connection between two adjacent tunnel units, in particular to prevent the ingress of bulk material into the connecting area between two adjacent tunnel units. In this context, the connecting element can be designed, in particular, depending on the loads occurring during use.

[0040] In particular, different connecting elements can also be provided for different extraction tunnels, so that the shape of the extraction tunnel can be changed, particularly depending on the connecting elements.

[0041] Preferably, the tunnel unit, as explained above, is designed for a modular construction of the extraction tunnel. In particular, the extraction tunnel is formed by at least substantially identical tunnel units and / or at least substantially identical connecting elements. As explained above, a connecting element can be provided between two adjacent tunnel units - but this is not required. In this context, it is also understood that an identical construction of the tunnel units is not absolutely necessary to enable a modular construction of the extraction tunnel. In this way, an extraction tunnel composed of individual tunnel units can be arranged in a polygonal manner, in particular so that a non-straight course of the extraction tunnel can be ensured.This is particularly useful for bulk material stockpiles that are not aligned in a straight line, but rather follow a different course, which is often the case in practice. The modular design allows for high flexibility of the discharge tunnel and good adaptability to different desired shapes and orientations for the discharge tunnel.

[0042] Furthermore, in a further preferred embodiment of the inventive concept, the connecting element has a connection housing for covering at least the top and sides of the connecting element, facing the bulk material pile in use, and for forming a connection passageway within the connecting element. Like the housing, the connection housing protects the connection passageway from the penetration of bulk material and thus provides a seal against the bulk material pile. The connection housing can be designed so that it can be arranged adjacent to the housing.

[0043] In particular, the connection enclosure has a top connection ceiling wall and connection side walls. A connection floor wall can be provided if required, but this is not mandatory. The connection ceiling wall can, in particular, merge into the connection side walls.

[0044] Particularly preferably, the connection housing is designed to be open at the end faces—at least partially open. In particular, a curved connection ceiling wall can also be provided, so that the connection ceiling wall, together with the connection side walls, can have, in particular, an at least substantially U-shaped profile—as seen in cross-section. A curved design of the connection ceiling wall has the advantage that the weight of the bulk material acting on the connection element can be better dissipated.

[0045] Preferably, the connecting ceiling wall, the connecting side walls, and / or the connecting floor wall are designed as outwardly closed components. Accordingly, the components of the connecting enclosure preferably have no holes, through-openings, perforations, or the like on the outer side facing the bulk material pile that could allow bulk material to penetrate.

[0046] As previously explained in connection with the enclosure, the connecting floor wall can be provided if necessary. This is then associated with improved cleaning in the connecting passageway, as well as with improved stability of the entire connecting enclosure. However, a connecting floor wall is not mandatory to protect the connecting passageway from the ingress of bulk material.

[0047] In a further, particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connecting ceiling wall, when in use, protrudes and / or projects beyond the ceiling wall of the adjacent enclosure, preferably being arranged to overlap it at least in some areas. Most preferably, the connecting ceiling wall protrudes from the enclosure ceiling wall directly adjacent to the connecting ceiling wall and, at the same time, is arranged to overlap the enclosure at least in the region of the connection between the tunnel unit and the connecting element. This has the advantage that the connecting ceiling wall can protect the connection area between the connecting element and the tunnel unit adjacent to the connecting element.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the inventive concept, each tunnel unit and / or at least one tunnel unit has at least one feed device for feeding the bulk material into the passageway. The feed device assigned to the tunnel unit enables the bulk material to be fed as needed, in particular such that the feed device transfers the bulk material to the conveying device, specifically in the passageway.

[0049] The feed device thus has, in particular, a receiving or inlet opening on the outside of the tunnel unit, which faces the bulk material pile. The feed device is thus preferably directly adjacent to the bulk material. The feed device also enables the bulk material to be fed into the tunnel unit as needed. Multiple feed devices in several tunnel units enable the bulk material to be fed to the respective conveyors as needed, particularly evenly. This also ensures thorough mixing or the provision of a specific mixing ratio as needed.

[0050] If, for example, the bulk material stockpile contains different types of bulk material in certain areas, a controlled and / or defined mixing and / or dosing of the bulk material can be carried out via the feed devices arranged in the respective areas of the bulk material stockpile, in particular in order to generate a desired total flow of the bulk material.

[0051] In this context, it is understood that a tunnel unit can have at least one conveyor and, if necessary, at least one feed device. Furthermore, tunnel units can also be provided in the discharge tunnel that have a conveyor but no feed device. These tunnel units then serve primarily to convey the bulk material and extend the length of the entire discharge tunnel.

[0052] If necessary, the feeder can also be referred to as a dosing device, as it enables targeted dosing of the bulk material. For this purpose, the feeder can be controlled accordingly.

[0053] In particular, the feed device comprises a hopper arranged on the outside of the housing and a closure located underneath the hopper and / or underneath the hopper for feeding the bulk material to the conveyor as needed. The closure is arranged in particular in the passageway or below the outside of the housing. Thus, the hopper, in particular, allows for placement in the bulk material stockpile area, and the closure, in turn, can be protected by the housing, enabling targeted transfer to the conveyor arranged in the passageway.

[0054] The hopper can, in particular, be continuously filled with bulk material, with appropriate dosing being possible via the closure. The closure can, in particular, be a sliding closure that can be opened or closed. In further embodiments, the passage width or the passage opening of the hopper's outlet opening can also be controlled accordingly by the closure, especially if the closure allows such regulation of the opening. However, this is not mandatory.

[0055] Furthermore, the volume flow of the bulk material fed to the conveying device can be determined in a particularly targeted manner by means of the correspondingly controllable closure, since the feeding device can enable a targeted and determinable supply of the volume flow of the bulk material fed to the conveying device via the outlet opening of the hopper.

[0056] Preferably, a control device is provided for controlling and / or regulating the closure and / or the conveying device, in particular the transport speed of a continuous conveyor of the conveying device. The control device can enable the opening or closing of individual closures of individual feed devices as required, particularly depending on the desired total discharge of the bulk material from the discharge tunnel. The speed of the conveying devices can also be adjusted or changed as required depending on the total flow.

[0057] In particular, the control system can determine the total flow of bulk material entering the respective conveyor system and how this can be regulated as needed. In this context, it should be noted that a conveyor system in a tunnel unit can not only transport the flow of bulk material supplied via the feed device, but must also preferably receive the bulk material transferred from the adjacent conveyor system to the adjacent tunnel unit. This can be taken into account by the control system accordingly, enabling targeted and efficient operation of the entire discharge tunnel.

[0058] Furthermore, the conveying device can comprise a continuous conveyor, preferably a conveyor belt. The continuous conveyor enables, in particular, continuous conveying operation or continuous transport of the bulk material. Preferably, the continuous conveyor is inclined and / or arranged in the passageway with a gradient that increases in the conveying direction of the continuous conveyor. An inclined arrangement of the continuous conveyor has the advantage that, on the one hand, the bulk material can be picked up via the feed device and, on the other hand, a corresponding discharge of the bulk material onto the adjacent conveyor device, as well as, at the same time, the bulk material can be picked up at the opposite end of the belt by the other adjacent conveyor device.

[0059] In particular, the inclination can be provided in such a way that the smallest distance to the floor area is included in the area of ​​the belt end at which the bulk material from the adjacent conveyor device is transferred to the continuous conveyor, and an incline is provided rising from this point or area to the opposite end of the tunnel unit in the conveying direction, so that the greatest distance to the floor area is present at the belt end at which the conveyor device transfers the bulk material to the adjacent conveyor device. In this way, a space-saving alignment of the conveyor device in the tunnel unit can be made possible at the same time, whereby both a targeted feeding of the bulk material can be made possible, but at the same time the bulk material can also be discharged. In the assembled state, the continuous conveyor particularly preferably extends beyond the tunnel unit with at least one belt end.Preferably, both belt ends of the continuous conveyor extend beyond the respective end face of the tunnel unit. Particularly preferably, at least that belt end of the continuous conveyor extends beyond the respective end face of the tunnel unit, which in particular enables discharge onto the adjacent conveyor device of another tunnel unit.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, at least the belt end of the continuous conveyor can extend beyond the tunnel unit, protruding beyond the connecting element into the adjacent tunnel unit and preferably being designed for discharge onto the conveyor device of the adjacent and / or upstream tunnel unit. In this way, a material flow of the bulk material in the discharge tunnel can be enabled according to the invention.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment, the closure of the feed device is connected to the conveying device, in particular to the continuous conveyor, to form a common structural unit, in particular via a connecting device, preferably a connecting box. In this way, a secure arrangement of the feed device on the continuous conveyor or the conveying device and thus also an accurate discharge of the bulk material from the feed device to the conveying device can be made possible. Furthermore, mounting via the connecting device is also preferable for static reasons, since the feed device is exposed to high forces when in use, which can then be introduced into the ground or the ground area via the housing, to which the feed device is also arranged, but also via the conveying device.

[0062] Preferably, guide elements, in particular guide plates, extending in the conveying direction are provided to guide the bulk material on the continuous conveyor. These guide elements can be arranged in particular above the continuous conveyor and preferably perpendicular to it. The guide elements can also be connected to the housing and / or the continuous conveyor via holding arms. The guide elements make it possible, in particular, to prevent unwanted discharge of the bulk material over the long sides of the continuous conveyor. Furthermore, safe guidance of the bulk material can be enabled. The guide elements also make it possible to determine the volume flow of the bulk material transported on the respective conveyor device, at least essentially for determining the total flow leaving the discharge tunnel.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, the continuous conveyor can be provided with a troughed belt for conveying bulk material. Guide elements can be arranged on the troughed belt if required, but this is not absolutely necessary, since the trough of the continuous conveyor already allows for a high level of bulk material to be accommodated and, at the same time, ensures that the bulk material is not thrown over the long sides of the continuous conveyor during use.

[0064] The continuous conveyor can be operated, in particular, with a plurality of rollers, in particular support rollers or bottom belt rollers, which can be driven by at least one drive motor. Furthermore, the continuous conveyor can have a belt, which is in particular straight or troughed. This belt can be arranged above the rollers and moved by the rollers.

[0065] In addition, an additional guide element can be provided at the end of the belt, extending transversely to the conveying direction of the continuous conveyor, to guide the bulk material on the continuous conveyor. This additional guide element is connected to the guide elements, in particular at the end. The additional guide element is arranged, in particular, at the end of the belt of the continuous conveyor where the adjacent conveyor device is received. This prevents the bulk material from "slipping down" in this area. This is also particularly advantageous because the continuous conveyor is arranged at an angle, and the end of the belt, which in particular has the additional guide element or to which the additional guide element is assigned, can form the lowest point of the continuous conveyor, so that unwanted discharge of the bulk material could occur at this point or in this area even without the additional guide element.

[0066] Particularly preferably, a sealing device, in particular a circumferential sealing device, is arranged in the region of at least one open end face of the connection housing of the connection element. This sealing device can particularly preferably be arranged in a sealing manner against the adjacent open end face of the tunnel unit. Furthermore, when two tunnel units are arranged directly adjacent to one another, with no connection element being provided for this connection, a corresponding sealing device can also be arranged on at least one open end face of a tunnel unit, which enables a preferred sealing arrangement against the other end face of the adjacent tunnel unit. The sealing device can also allow a certain flexibility in the connection area between the connection element and the adjacent tunnel unit or in the connection area between two adjacent tunnel units.

[0067] In this context, the sealing device preferably has an adaptable, adjustable, and / or variable width. Most preferably, the sealing device is elastic and / or flexible at least in some regions. The sealing device can in particular have or consist of a rubber seal. The sealing device particularly preferably serves to compensate for an offset between two adjacent tunnel units. For example, the connection between two tunnel units or between a tunnel unit and a connecting element is subjected to a high force in use due to the bulk material arranged on this connection. A certain degree of flexibility in the connection area is therefore particularly preferred in order to enable long-term use and, in particular, to avoid unwanted collisions between components.

[0068] In addition, it may be provided that different sealing devices can also be provided.

[0069] Preferably, the sealing device is covered by the connection housing. In particular, the sealing device is covered by the connection housing on top and / or sides. Thus, the connection housing can protect the sealing device from the bulk material during use and also reliably prevent unwanted contamination in the area of ​​the sealing device.

[0070] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the sealing device is covered by the enclosure, in particular on the top and / or side, preferably in any case when two directly adjacent tunnel units are connected to one another.

[0071] In particular, the sealing device is set back from the open end face of the connection housing of the connection element, to which the sealing device is arranged, and / or from the open end face of the housing on which the sealing device is arranged. A corresponding offset of the sealing device enables, in particular, protection of the sealing device by the housing or the connection housing when in use. Thus, it is not necessary for the sealing device to protrude from the end face of the tunnel unit or the connection element, thus forming the outermost point; rather, appropriate protection can be ensured in a particularly preferred manner.

[0072] In a further preferred embodiment, a stop edge protrudes, in particular at a right angle, from the inside of the connection housing. The inside of the connection housing faces in particular the connection passageway and thus also the side opposite the outside of the connection housing. The stop edge is preferably arranged in the region of an open end face of the connection element. However, the stop edge can be set back from the open end face of the connection element, preferably between 1 cm and 100 cm, preferably between 2 cm and 50 cm. The stop edge serves in particular for the arrangement of the sealing device. The sealing device can be firmly connected to the stop edge, in particular by means of a material fit, friction fit and / or force fit. In further embodiments, the sealing device can also be screwed to the stop edge.In addition, the stop edge can be designed to connect and / or abut against the open end face of the adjacent tunnel unit.

[0073] Preferably, the connection housing has a stop edge in the region of the respective end faces, which can then be set back in particular relative to the respective open end faces, as explained above.

[0074] Particularly preferably, the tunnel unit has at least one counter-stop edge in the region of at least one open end face, in particular in the region of both open end faces. The counter-stop edge can (like the stop edge) protrude from the inner side of the enclosure facing the passageway, preferably at a right angle. The counter-stop edge can then be set back from the open end face of the tunnel unit or be flush with the open end face of the tunnel unit. The counter-stop edge, in turn, can be designed to abut against the stop edge of the adjacent connecting element if a connecting element is to be arranged on the tunnel unit. In further embodiments, however, the counter-stop edge can also be designed to abut against another counter-stop edge of an adjacent tunnel unit, if required, in particular if two tunnel units are connected to one another without a connecting element.

[0075] Furthermore, the counter-stop edge – regardless of whether it is connected to a stop edge or another counter-stop edge – can be designed for connection, preferably by screwing, to a sealing device adjacent thereto. The sealing device can then, if required, be connected to an adjacent connecting element or an adjacent tunnel unit. Thus, in the use state, the sealing device can be enclosed, in particular, between a counter-stop edge and a stop edge or between two counter-stop edges. In this context, it is understood that different embodiments of the sealing device can exist in the use state, in particular depending on whether the use of connecting elements is intended to connect individual tunnel units or not.

[0076] Preferably, in the in-use state, a sealing device is located on the end face of each tunnel unit. Thus, in the in-use state, the tunnel unit can be connected to adjacent connecting elements or tunnel units with at least two sealing devices. In this case, the respective sealing device can, in particular, be located on a counter-stop edge of the respective open end face of the tunnel unit.

[0077] Particularly preferably, a first sealing device is designed as a sealing lip and / or flat lip or as a flat, cavity-free seal. In this context, it is particularly preferred that the first sealing device is a rubber seal or an adhesive sealing tape. However, the tunnel unit can also be connected to or have a further sealing device. The further sealing device can then be arranged in particular on the end face opposite the first sealing device. In the use state, the further sealing device can in particular form a cavity, enclose one, or create a distance between the mutually facing edges, in particular a counter-stop edge and a stop edge or between two counter-stop edges. Particularly preferably, the further sealing device is designed as a U-shaped seal.The further sealing device is in particular larger than the first sealing device and thus enables compensation of an offset between two tunnel units facing each other - initially independent of whether a connecting element is enclosed between these tunnel units or not.

[0078] A particularly advantageous feature of the combination of a first sealing device and a further sealing device for arrangement on the respective open end face of the tunnel unit is that the tunnel unit is allowed greater play on an open end face than on the opposite end face, which can result in greater stability of the entire extraction tunnel.

[0079] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present inventive concept, it is provided that the first and / or the further sealing device is connected to the adjacent counter-stop edge and / or stop edge in a frictionally engaged and / or positively engaged manner, preferably by screwing. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the first and / or the further sealing device is connected to two edges each, in particular a stop edge and a counter-stop edge, or to two counter-stop edges.

[0080] This arrangement enables the aforementioned advantages of improved stability of the extraction tunnel while simultaneously allowing relative mobility between two adjacent tunnel units. This allows the tunnel units to be arranged in a sealed manner, thus ensuring long-term use.

[0081] Furthermore, in a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one reinforcing rib is arranged on the inner side of the housing facing the passageway. The reinforcing rib can in particular protrude at least substantially at right angles from the inner side of the housing. Particularly preferably, the reinforcing rib is arranged at least on the ceiling wall and / or on at least one side wall, preferably on both side walls. The reinforcing rib can particularly preferably extend over the side walls and the ceiling wall, so that more preferably the reinforcing rib, viewed in cross-section, is designed as a U-shaped profile and / or U-shaped reinforcing rib. Particularly preferably, a plurality of reinforcing ribs is provided, which can be spaced apart from one another. The spacing of the reinforcing ribs can be the same or different.

[0082] Advantageously, a reinforcing rib can have at least one through-hole. This through-hole can then be used to route cables in the passageway of the tunnel unit. This also allows for a clean and, in particular, structured passageway of the tunnel unit.

[0083] In addition, the reinforcing ribs enable a particularly stable base structure for the tunnel unit by stabilizing the enclosure. This allows the tunnel unit to be constructed without concrete and, in particular, to be made of steel, which can facilitate easy transport of the tunnel unit, as previously explained.

[0084] Preferably, at least one pivotable grating element is provided on the floor or in the floor area of ​​the enclosure, at least in some areas. In particular, a plurality of grating elements, which may be adjacent to one another, is provided. The grating element can, in particular, be provided adjacent to the conveyor system at the floor of the tunnel unit. The grating element can thus form a path for maintenance personnel who wish to move alongside the conveyor system in the passageway of the tunnel unit.

[0085] The advantage of the pivoting grating element is that it can be pivoted open for cleaning, thus creating a particularly clean passageway. Despite the presence of guide elements, bulk material can sometimes leave the conveyor and fall to the floor, especially near conveyors. The grating elements then provide a path for maintenance personnel that is little to not at all affected by fallen bulk material, which can fall through the openings in the grating elements. In this context, it may also be possible to provide for not all grating elements to be pivoting.

[0086] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the tunnel units and / or the connecting elements of the extraction tunnel are arranged at least substantially polygonally in plan view. The individual sections of the extraction tunnel can be formed by the connecting elements and the tunnel units, which can each be arranged obliquely and / or offset from one another. In this way, an arcuate section shape of the extraction tunnel can particularly preferably be achieved, at least substantially seen in plan view. In this context, it is understood that due to the design of the tunnel units and the connecting elements, an exact arcuate section shape cannot be achieved. However, the extraction tunnel can approximate such an arcuate section shape due to its polygonal or modular structure.

[0087] An at least substantially curved section design of the discharge tunnel is particularly advantageous with regard to bulk material stockpiles commonly found in gravel works. In practice, bulk material stockpiles are generally constructed using a pivoting gravel conveyor. Due to the pivoting range of this gravel conveyor, the bulk material stockpile is at least substantially shaped like a circular arc simply by discharging the bulk material. The discharge tunnel can then be designed based on this shape or adapted accordingly. If the discharge tunnel were merely straight, not all areas of the bulk material stockpile could be covered accordingly, so that the use of wheel loaders or the like would still be necessary. According to the invention, the construction of the discharge tunnel into individual tunnel units enables a high degree of adaptability of the discharge tunnel to differently constructed bulk material stockpiles.This means that shapes of the exhaust tunnel that deviate from a straight line can also be provided.

[0088] In this context, however, it is also understood that, if necessary, the tunnel units and / or end elements of the discharge tunnel are arranged at least essentially along a straight line in plan view. Should this also be advantageous in certain gravel works, this form of discharge tunnel can of course also be ensured according to the invention.

[0089] To create a curved section of the extraction tunnel, it is particularly advantageous if the connection housing is at least substantially wedge-shaped from one connection side wall to the opposite connection side wall. The connection element can thus particularly preferably be considered a wedge piece. A rounding and / or a corresponding offset between two tunnel units can then be ensured, in particular, by the wedge shape of the connection element. In this way, the aforementioned curved section shape of the extraction tunnel can be achieved.

[0090] The housing and / or the connection housing preferably comprises and / or consists of metal, in particular steel and / or aluminum, as a material. Metal as a material is particularly advantageous with regard to the overall weight of the tunnel unit. Tunnel units known from practice have concrete as the material for their housing. A corresponding concrete wall is very heavy, which makes transport of the extraction tunnel difficult or even impossible. According to the invention, this can now be avoided by providing the housing or the connection housing with the material metal. Reinforcement of the connection housing or the housing, if required, can be achieved in particular with reinforcing ribs arranged on the inside of the housing or the connection housing.

[0091] In tests carried out during the development of the invention, it was found that the inventive construction of the tunnel units can ensure sufficient strength and stability even with the material metal.

[0092] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to the tunnel unit for a discharge tunnel. The discharge tunnel is designed in particular according to one of the aforementioned embodiments. Accordingly, the present invention also relates to the tunnel unit itself. The tunnel unit according to the invention is intended for conveying bulk material from a bulk material stockpile. Furthermore, the tunnel unit according to the invention is intended for arrangement in the floor area of ​​the bulk material stockpile. The tunnel unit according to the invention has an enclosure for covering at least the top and sides of the tunnel unit, facing the bulk material stockpile in the use state, and for forming a passageway within the tunnel unit. Furthermore, the tunnel unit comprises a conveyor device in the passageway for conveying bulk material away.

[0093] According to the invention, the conveyor device protrudes from the housing on at least one end face of the housing and / or protrudes from the housing. The conveyor device can also be arranged only within the housing. In this context, it is understood that with regard to preferred embodiments of the tunnel unit, reference may be made to the aforementioned embodiments of the extraction tunnel, which also apply equally to the tunnel unit without the need for further explicit explanation. Furthermore, the statements regarding the tunnel unit according to the invention also apply equally to the extraction tunnel according to the invention without the need for further explanation. Therefore, to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference may be made to the aforementioned statements.

[0094] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the tunnel unit has a feed device for feeding the bulk material into the passageway. The conveying device can then be designed, in particular, to remove the bulk material fed in via the feed device.

[0095] Furthermore, it is expressly pointed out that all the intervals mentioned above and below include all intermediate intervals and individual values ​​contained therein and that these intermediate intervals and individual values ​​are to be regarded as essential to the invention, even if these intermediate intervals or individual values ​​are not specifically specified in detail.

[0096] Further features, advantages and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings and the drawings themselves. All described and / or illustrated features, individually or in any combination, form the subject matter of the present invention, regardless of their summary in the claims or their reference back to them.

[0097] It shows:

[0098] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a discharge tunnel according to the invention,

[0099] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a plurality of conveyor devices according to the invention,

[0100] Fig. 3 is a schematic plan view of a further embodiment of a discharge tunnel according to the invention, Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view of a further embodiment of a discharge tunnel according to the invention,

[0101] Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view of two conveyor devices according to the invention,

[0102] Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view of part of another embodiment of a discharge tunnel according to the invention,

[0103] Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of two conveyor devices according to the invention,

[0104] Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the part of the extraction tunnel shown in Fig. 6,

[0105] Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a tunnel unit according to the invention connected to a connecting element according to the invention,

[0106] Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting element according to the invention,

[0107] Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the extraction tunnel according to the invention in use,

[0108] Fig. 12 is a schematic sectional view of a conveyor device according to the invention,

[0109] Fig. 13 is a schematic plan view of a further embodiment of a conveyor device according to the invention,

[0110] Fig. 14 is a schematic side view of a conveyor device according to the invention, Fig. 15 is a schematic sectional view of a conveyor device according to the invention with a feed device according to the invention arranged thereon,

[0111] Fig. 16 is a schematic sectional view of a conveyor device according to the invention connected to a feed device according to the invention,

[0112] Fig. 17 is a schematic representation of a discharge tunnel according to the invention, which is arranged below a bulk material dump,

[0113] Fig. 18 is a schematic detailed view of Fig. 17,

[0114] Fig. 19 is a schematic sectional view along section XIX-XIX of

[0115] Fig. 17 and

[0116] Fig. 20 is a schematic sectional view along section XX-XX of Fig. 19.

[0117] Fig. 1 shows a discharge tunnel 1 for conveying bulk material 2 from a bulk material dump 3. The operational state or the state of use of a discharge tunnel 1 is shown in Figs. 11 and 17 for different discharge tunnels 1. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 11, the bulk material dump 3 is constructed by a pivotable gravel conveyor 41, which is movable along its pivot axis and can thus enable an at least substantially curved section-shaped construction of the bulk material dump 3.

[0118] Fig. 17 schematically shows that, in use, the discharge tunnel 1 is arranged in the bulk material pile 3 and is thus also covered on top by the bulk material 2. Particularly preferably, the discharge tunnel 1 is arranged at least substantially centrally in the bulk material pile 3, thus enabling improved removal of the bulk material 2.

[0119] Fig. 11 shows that the discharge tunnel 1 can also protrude or protrude beyond the bulk material stockpile 3, at least with one end, preferably with both ends. In this way, the bulk material 2 transported in the discharge tunnel 1 can be removed from the discharge tunnel 1 again. Furthermore, Fig. 1 shows that the discharge tunnel 1 has at least two tunnel units 4 for arrangement in the floor area 5 of the bulk material stockpile 3. As previously explained, Fig. 17 shows the arrangement of the tunnel units 4 and also of the discharge tunnel 1 in the floor area of ​​the bulk material stockpile 3.

[0120] Each tunnel unit 4 has an enclosure 6 for covering at least the top and sides of the tunnel unit 4, facing the bulk material dump 3 in the in-use state, and for forming a passageway 7 within the tunnel unit 4. Such an enclosure is shown, for example, in Fig. 9 for a tunnel unit 4. Fig. 9 also illustrates that the enclosure 6 encloses a hollow space, which is open at the ends if necessary. This hollow space can then form the passageway 7.

[0121] Fig. 1 shows that when several tunnel units 4 are arranged next to one another, the respective passageways 7 can also be connected, so that maintenance personnel, in particular, can walk the entire length of the extraction tunnel 1 by passing through several passageways 7. For this purpose, the enclosure 6 can be designed to be open, in particular at its end faces 35, as illustrated, for example, in Fig. 9.

[0122] For schematic reasons, the enclosure 6 of the tunnel units 4 has not been shown in Fig. 2. However, Fig. 2 shows the conveyor device 9 of a tunnel unit 4, wherein the individual conveyor devices 9 of the tunnel units 4 of a discharge tunnel 1 are operatively connected to one another for transferring the respective bulk material 2 to the adjacent conveyor device 9.

[0123] Fig. 1 shows that each tunnel unit 4 has at least one conveyor 9 for conveying the bulk material 2 in the passageway 7. This bulk material 2 can be made available to the respective conveyor 9, for example, via the adjacent conveyor 9. If necessary, the bulk material 2 can also be made available to the respective conveyor 9 via a feed device 8, which will be discussed below.

[0124] Fig. 6 clearly shows that the conveyor device 9 of a tunnel unit 4 is designed to transfer and / or discharge the bulk material 2 to the adjacent conveyor device 9 of the adjacent tunnel unit 4 or to discharge it from the discharge tunnel 1. Thus, Fig. 6 shows that the conveyor device 9 is designed to discharge it from the discharge tunnel 1.

[0125] Fig. 7 shows that two adjacent conveyor devices 9 of two tunnel units 4 are arranged overlapping one another, so that the discharge from one conveyor device 9 in the conveying direction F onto the further conveyor device 9 arranged below the discharge point can be enabled.

[0126] Fig. 2 and Fig. 5 also show that adjacent conveyor devices 9 of adjacent tunnel units 4 are arranged to overlap, at least in the region of the discharge point, such that the bulk material 2 can be discharged from one conveyor device 9 onto the other conveyor device 9, so that overall material transport in the discharge tunnel 1 can be enabled by all conveyor devices 9, as is schematically shown in Fig. 1. The bulk material 2 is thus discharged multiple times from individual conveyor devices 9 and can, however, be transported as a whole over the length of the discharge tunnel 1.

[0127] Fig. 9 shows that the housing 6 has an upper ceiling wall 10 and side walls 11, 12. Fig. 9 also shows that the housing 6 comprises a lower floor wall 13, which, however, can optionally be omitted. However, for reasons of stability, the presence of a floor wall 13 is particularly preferred. Fig. 9 also shows that the ceiling wall 10 merges seamlessly into the side walls 11, 12. The ceiling wall 10 and the side walls 11, 12 make it possible to prevent bulk material 2 from penetrating into the passage space 7. For this purpose, the ceiling wall 10 and the side walls 11, 12 can be designed in particular as closed components or as closed components facing outwards, towards the bulk material 2.In particular, neither the ceiling wall 10 nor the side walls 11, 12 have any through-openings or holes on their outer sides that would allow bulk material 2 to undesirably penetrate into the passage space 7. This does not include through-openings that are deliberately introduced, for example to allow a targeted supply of bulk material 2 into the passage space 7. Such a through-opening is also shown, for example, in Fig. 9, which serves for the later arrangement of a supply device 8, as shown, for example, in Fig. 8. Such through-openings are then also closed, if necessary, during use, in order to continue to prevent the penetration of bulk material 2 into the passage space 7.

[0128] The bottom wall 13 also merges seamlessly into the side walls 11, 12. Fig. 9 further shows that the top wall 10 is curved, which is particularly advantageous for stability reasons. Thus, the side walls 11, 12 and the top wall 10 result in an egg-shaped cross-section for the housing 6. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible in further embodiments. The housing 6 can be formed in one piece or in multiple parts. In a multiple-part design, a fixed and preferably sealed arrangement of the individual parts of the housing 6 is particularly preferred.

[0129] Fig. 10 shows a connecting element 14 of the extraction tunnel 1. Fig. 1 shows a plurality of connecting elements 14 which are provided for connecting two adjacent tunnel units 4. A connecting element 14 is in particular designed to be significantly shorter in length than a tunnel unit 4. Preferably, the connecting element 14 also does not have its own conveyor device 9, but merely serves to arrange or guide at least one conveyor device 9 of at least one adjacent tunnel unit 4. However, the connecting elements 14 enable a preferably tight connection between two adjacent tunnel units 4, which in particular allows a certain degree of flexibility. Thus, the connecting elements 14 can also be regarded as intermediate pieces.

[0130] The frontal connection of two tunnel units 4 via the connecting element 14 is also clearly shown in Figs. 6 and 8, which also illustrate that the tunnel units 4 can be arranged obliquely to one another via the connecting element 14.

[0131] The tunnel units 4 shown in the figures are designed for the modular construction of the extraction tunnel 1. Thus, in particular, the extraction tunnel 1 can be formed by at least substantially identical tunnel units 4 and / or by at least substantially identical connecting elements 14. It is understood that different tunnel units 4 can, of course, also be used in an extraction tunnel 1 as required; however, a construction with identical tunnel units 4 is fundamentally possible, which in turn characterizes the modular construction of the extraction tunnel 1. For example, Fig. 3, in which the tunnel units 4 are shown without the housings 6, shows that tunnel units 4 can also be provided, for example, without a feed device 8, in which case, however, the conveyor devices 9 can still be provided.

[0132] Fig. 10 shows that the connecting element 14 has a connection housing 15 for covering at least the top and sides of the connecting element 14, which faces the bulk material pile 3 in the use state, and for forming a connection passageway 16 within the connecting element 14. The connection housing 15 can have a top-side connecting ceiling wall 17 and connecting side walls 18, 19 and, if required, a connecting bottom wall 20. The connecting ceiling wall 17 or one of the connecting side walls 18, 19, in particular both connecting side walls 18, 19, and / or the connecting bottom wall 20 can be designed as outwardly closed components and thus provide in particular a barrier against the bulk material 2. Fig. 8 shows that in the installed state orin the state of use, the connecting ceiling wall 17 protrudes and / or projects beyond the ceiling wall 10 of the adjacent housing 6, preferably being arranged at least partially overlapping therewith.

[0133] A corresponding overhang of the connecting ceiling wall 15, which is also shown in detail in Fig. 9, enables the connecting area between two adjacent tunnel units 4 to be protected from the loads acting on the discharge tunnel 1 due to the bulk material 2. In particular, the connecting area can be safely covered in this way. The connecting ceiling wall 17 forms a barrier against the bulk material 2.

[0134] As explained above, at least one tunnel unit 4, in particular each tunnel unit 4, can have at least one feeding device 8 for feeding the bulk material 2 into the passage space 7.

[0135] Corresponding feed devices 8 are shown, for example, in Fig. 2, but also in detail in Fig. 15 and Fig. 16. In Fig. 15, for schematic reasons, the conveyor device 8 is not shown inclined, in contrast to the installed state, in order to be able to illustrate the corresponding arrangement of the feed device 8 in a simple manner. The feed device 8 is arranged on the tunnel unit 4 and in particular on the housing 6 in such a way that the feed or inlet opening of the feed device 8 is directly adjacent to the bulk material pile 3 or is arranged in it, as is also shown in Fig. 17 in the use state. The feed opening can be assigned an outlet opening, which is in particular smaller than the feed opening, or the feed opening can taper towards the outlet opening.This outlet opening is arranged in particular in the passage space 7 and enables in particular the bulk material 2 to be discharged onto the conveyor device 9.

[0136] The conveying device 9 is arranged in particular in the passage space 7 such that the bulk material 2 fed via the feed device 8 can be transferred to the conveying device 9, which is also shown schematically in Figs. 15 and 16. Fig. 1 also further shows that the feed device 8 has a hopper 21 arranged on the outside of the housing 6 and a closure 22 adjoining the hopper 21 on the underside and / or arranged on the underside of the hopper 21 for feeding the bulk material 2 to the conveying device 9 as required.

[0137] This closure 22 can be arranged in the region of the conveyor device 9, as is also shown, for example, in Fig. 16. The closure 22 enables, in particular, a closure of the outlet opening of the feed device 8, so that the feed device 8 can only be opened when necessary. A sliding closure can be provided as the closure 22, so that, in particular, the outlet opening can be opened or closed. In further embodiments, which are not shown in detail, the passage width of the outlet opening can also be controlled by the closure 22, in particular by providing a larger or smaller outlet opening as required.

[0138] The feeding device 8 is arranged in particular on the conveying device 9 in such a way that the bulk material 2 can be transferred to the conveying device 9 with little to no loss, in particular can be dropped onto the conveying device 9.

[0139] In particular, a control device 23 is provided, which is schematically illustrated in Fig. 7. The control device 23 is intended, in particular, for controlling and / or regulating the closure 22 and / or conveyor device 9, in particular the transport speed of a continuous conveyor 24 of the conveyor device 9. In particular, the volume flow of the bulk material 2 discharged as a whole from the discharge tunnel 1 can be controlled and / or regulated via the control device 23.

[0140] If required, a corresponding mixture of the bulk material 2 can also be provided via the control device 23. For example, it can be provided that the bulk material stockpile 3 has different areas with differently composed bulk material 2. These corresponding areas can then be specifically controlled via the respective feed devices 8 arranged in this area, so that, for example, 20% from the first and 80% from the second area can be added to the total flow of the bulk material 2. In this way, the control device 23 can also, in particular, control the actual removal process of the bulk material 2. The control device 23 can be arranged inside the discharge tunnel 1 or outside the discharge tunnel 1, but can communicate, preferably wirelessly, with the corresponding devices. A wireless connection, a mobile phone connection, a radio connection, etc. can be used for this purpose.

[0141] As previously explained, the conveying device 9 can in particular have a continuous conveyor 24, as is shown schematically in Figs. 12-14, for example. Fig. 12 shows a side view, Fig. 13 a top view, and Fig. 14 a front view of different embodiments of a continuous conveyor 24. The continuous conveyor 24 is characterized in operation in particular in that it can be operated via a drive motor 42; in particular, individual rollers 43 of the continuous conveyor 24 can be driven. A belt can then be arranged on these rollers 43. This belt is in particular troughed or smooth, so that appropriate transport of the bulk material 2 can be enabled.

[0142] Fig. 2, but also Fig. 7, schematically illustrate that, in use, the continuous conveyor 24 is inclined or arranged in the passageway 7 with a gradient that increases in the conveying direction 9 of the continuous conveyor 24. This also enables the individual conveyor devices 9 to be discharged. The inclined position of the conveyor device 9 thus also enables a space-saving arrangement of the conveyor devices 9 in the respective tunnel units 4.The lowest end of the conveyor 9, which includes the shortest distance from the floor area, can serve in particular to receive a bulk material 2 dropped from an adjacent conveyor 9, which is then transported in the conveying direction F of the continuous conveyor 24, namely in particular to the highest point of the continuous conveyor 24 - relative to the floor area of ​​the bulk material pile 3 -, wherein a drop onto an adjacent conveyor 9 is then provided at this highest end. An inclined arrangement of the continuous conveyor 24 is also associated with improved mixing and homogenization of the bulk material 2 on the continuous conveyor 24.

[0143] Fig. 1 shows that, in the assembled state, the continuous conveyor 24 extends beyond the tunnel unit 4 with at least one belt end 25, 30, in particular, if necessary, protrudes beyond the connecting element 14 into the adjacent tunnel unit 4. In particular, the belt end 25 serves for discharge onto the conveyor device 9 of the adjacent and / or upstream tunnel unit 4. It is understood that the conveyor device 9 can also extend beyond the tunnel unit 4 into the adjacent tunnel unit 4 with the belt end 30 at which no discharge, but rather the reception of discharged bulk material 2, is provided, but this is not mandatory. Preferably, at least one, in particular both, belt end(s) 25, 30 of the continuous conveyor 24 extend beyond the open end faces 35 of the tunnel unit 4, thus enabling, in particular, a modular design for the discharge tunnel 1.

[0144] 15 and 16 show that the closure 22 of the feed device 8 is connected to the conveying device 9, namely in particular to the continuous conveyor 24, to form a common structural unit. A connecting device 26, which may also be referred to as a connecting box, may be provided for the connection. In this way, the feed device 8 can be supported and / or mounted not only on the housing 6 but also on the continuous conveyor 24 or the conveying device 9. The connecting device 26 also ensures that the bulk material 2 can be discharged in a targeted manner from the outlet opening of the feed device 8 onto the conveying device 9.

[0145] The feed device 8 can thus form a common structural unit with the conveyor device 9, in particular via the connecting device 26. Fig. 12 shows a guide element 27 which is provided for the continuous conveyor 24. In particular, two guide elements 27, 28 can be provided, as is shown, for example, in Fig. 14. These guide elements 27, 28 are also shown in Fig. 16. The guide elements 27, 28 can extend, in particular, over at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, of the length of the continuous conveyor 24. The guide elements 27, 28 can, in particular, be designed as guide plates and, moreover, be connected to the continuous conveyor 24 via holding arms 29, which are shown, for example, in Fig. 14. The guide elements 27, 28 enable the bulk material 2 to be guided in a targeted manner and, in particular, prevent the bulk material 2 from being guided in a non-troughed ornon-bent belt of the continuous conveyor 24, so that the bulk material 2 can remain on the continuous conveyor 24 and, in particular, is not thrown laterally over the longitudinal sides of the continuous conveyor 24. The guide elements 27, 28 can, in particular, be arranged vertically on the continuous conveyor 24 and / or at least substantially vertically above the continuous conveyor 24.

[0146] It is not shown in more detail that the guide elements 27, 28 can also be connected to the housing 6 via holding arms.

[0147] In a further embodiment, not shown in detail, it can also be provided that the continuous conveyor has a troughed belt for conveying bulk material. With a troughed belt, the guide elements 27, 28 can be omitted. However, these can also be provided additionally for guidance as required. The advantage of a troughed belt is that an increased quantity of bulk material 2 can be accommodated in the trough, so that in particular a reliable material transport of the bulk material 2 via the continuous conveyor 24 can be ensured. Fig. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a further guide element 31. This further guide element 31 can also be provided for guiding the bulk material 2 on the continuous conveyor 24 and can be arranged at the belt end 30 of the continuous conveyor 24 and can run in particular transversely to the conveying direction F of the continuous conveyor 24.The additional guide element 31 is provided, in particular, to prevent the bulk material 2 from falling over the beginning of the conveyor belt or the continuous conveyor 24. As shown in Fig. 7, the additional guide element 31 can be connected to the additional guide elements 27, 28, in particular by a material fit, a force fit, and / or a form fit.

[0148] Fig. 10 schematically shows that a sealing device 34 is provided in the region of at least one open end face 32, 33 of the connection housing 15 of the connection element 14. What is not shown in more detail is that a circumferential sealing device 34 can also be provided in the region of an open end face 35 of the tunnel unit 4. However, Fig. 20 shows that the sealing device 34, which is provided on the connection housing 15, can be connected to an open end face 35 of the adjacent tunnel unit 4 and can therefore then also be arranged at least on this open end face 35 of the tunnel unit 4 in the use state. The sealing device 34 serves to ensure that the open end face 35 of the adjacent tunnel unit 4 is sealingly connected to one of the end faces 32, 33 of a connection housing 15.

[0149] It is not shown in detail that the sealing device 34 has an adaptable, adjustable, and / or variable width. In particular, the sealing device 34 can be elastic and / or flexible at least in some areas, preferably to compensate for an offset between two adjacent tunnel units 4.

[0150] Fig. 10 shows that the sealing device 34 is covered by the connection housing 15, particularly on top and / or laterally. In this way, the sealing device 34 can be protected by the connection housing 15. A corresponding offset of the sealing device 34 relative to one of the open end faces 32, 33 of the connection housing 15 of the connection element 14 is therefore also advantageous. A corresponding offset, which can be between 1 cm and 50 cm, is schematically shown in Fig. 10.

[0151] What is not shown in detail is that the sealing device 34 can be covered by the enclosure 6, in particular on top and / or laterally, even when arranged on an open end face 35 of the tunnel unit 4. It is also not shown that the sealing device 34 is set back from the open end face 35 of the enclosure 6.

[0152] Preferably, the sealing device 34 can also be flush with the open end face 35 of the housing 6 and does not have to be set back from it. Appropriate protection of the sealing device 34 can then be achieved in particular by the connection housing 15, which can preferably cover the housing 6 and thus also the sealing device 34 at least in part when in use. Fig. 10 shows that the stop edge 36 can protrude, preferably at right angles, from the inside of the connection housing 15 facing the stop passage 16. The stop edge 36 can thus also be regarded as a flange, which serves in particular for arranging the sealing device 34, as shown schematically in Fig. 10.

[0153] The stop edge 36 can thus serve in particular for arranging, preferably for screwing, the sealing device 34, as shown in Fig. 20. The stop edge 36 can also be designed for connection and / or abutment against the open end face 35 of the adjacent tunnel unit 4, as shown for the open end face 33 in Fig. 20. Fig. 20 shows that the connection housing 14 has a stop edge 36 on two end faces 32, 33, on which the sealing device 34 is arranged. The sealing device 34 can then be connected to the stop edge 36 if necessary.

[0154] Fig. 20 further shows that a counter-stop edge 37 of the tunnel unit 4 can also be provided. Like the stop edge 36, the counter-stop edge 37 can also be designed, in particular, as a flange for arranging the sealing device 34.

[0155] The counter-stop edge 37 can be provided in particular in the region of at least one open end face 35. In particular, the tunnel unit 4 has a counter-stop edge 37 on both open end faces 35, which can serve to arrange the sealing device 34. When two tunnel units 4 are connected directly to one another - without the use of a connecting element 14 - two counter-stop edges 37 can then also be connected to one another. In this context, it is understood that, particularly preferably when using a connecting element 14, it is provided that a stop edge 36 can be connected to a counter-stop edge 37 of the tunnel unit 4 with the interposition of a sealing device 34, as is particularly clearly shown in Fig. 20.

[0156] The sealing devices 34 can be of the same or different designs. Fig. 20 shows two differently designed sealing devices 34a, 34b. For example, a larger sealing device 34b can be located on an open end face 32 of the connecting element 14 than on the opposite end face 33. For example, a first sealing device 34a can be designed as a narrow, flat sealing lip, while the further sealing device 34b can be designed larger and, in particular, as a U-shaped seal with a certain cavity.

[0157] For clamping the respective sealing device 34a, 34b, corresponding clamping means, further sealing devices or the like can then be provided, which are shown as examples in the bottom area of ​​Fig. 20.

[0158] Fig. 10 shows that the connection housing 15 has a connection edge 36 in the area of ​​the respective end face 32, 33.

[0159] As previously explained, the counter-stop edge 37 can also protrude, in particular at right angles, from the inner side of the enclosure 6 facing the passageway 7. Like the connecting element 14, the tunnel unit 4, as previously explained, can also have counter-stop edges 37 on both open end faces 35, which can ultimately be provided for connection to adjacent tunnel units 4 or adjacent connecting elements 14, in particular with the interposition of a sealing device 34. The sealing device 34 can then enable a certain flexibility or an offset from the adjacent element (tunnel unit 4 or connecting element 14).

[0160] Accordingly, the counter-stop edge 37 can be designed as a whole to abut against the stop edge 36 of the adjacent connecting element 14 and / or to abut or weld against a counter-stop edge 37 of the adjacent tunnel unit 4 and / or to be connected, preferably by screwing, to the sealing device 34 of the adjacent connecting element 14 and / or adjacent tunnel unit 4. Depending on whether a connecting element 14 or another tunnel unit 4 is arranged directly on the respective open end face 35 of the tunnel unit 4, the counter-stop edge 37 is then directly connected to a sealing device 34 that is connected to the stop edge 36 or to a counter-stop edge 37.

[0161] The counter stop edge 37 particularly preferably ends flush with the open end face 35 of the tunnel unit 4, which is particularly clearly shown in Fig. 9.

[0162] In particular, in the use state, a sealing device 34 can be arranged on the end face of each tunnel unit 4. As previously explained, a first sealing device 34a can then be designed as a sealing lip or as a flat, cavity-free seal, while a further sealing device 34b arranged on the end face 35 of the tunnel unit 4 opposite the first sealing device 34a can have more than one cavity, in particular can be designed as a U-shaped seal. This ensures high flexibility and elasticity for the tunnel units 4.

[0163] In particular, the first and / or further sealing device 34a, 34b can be connected to the adjacent counter-stop edge 37 or the adjacent stop edge 36 in a frictionally engaged and / or positively engaged manner, preferably by screwing. Fig. 20 shows that the two sealing devices 34a, 34b are each connected to a counter-stop edge 37 and a stop edge 36 via a screw connection. If there is a distance between the counter-stop edge 37 and the stop edge 36, two screw connections can then be used. In the case of a flat seal, as in the case of the first sealing device 34a, a screw connection can also be provided for screwing the first sealing device 34a to the counter-stop edge 37 as well as to the stop edge 36. Thus, the counter-stop edge 37 can be connected to the stop edge 36 via the screw connection, even with the first sealing device 34a interposed.On the opposite open end face 32 of the connecting element 14, the counter-stop edge 37 is not directly connected to the stop edge 36, but rather beneath the intermediate layer of the sealing device 34b. The further sealing device 34b forms a cavity, so that the presence of several screw connections is required. Thus, the sealing device is screwed directly to the stop edge 36 on one side and to the counter-stop edge 37 on the other side, but the edges 36, 37 are not arranged directly on top of one another, but are spaced apart via the corresponding cavity. This cavity can be of different sizes depending on the different embodiments and can in particular have a width between 0.5 cm and 50 cm, preferably between 1 cm and 100 cm.

[0164] Fig. 9 shows that at least one reinforcing rib 38 can be used to reinforce the housing 6. This reinforcing rib 38 can be arranged on the inside of the housing 6 facing the passage space 7. In particular, the reinforcing rib 38 is connected both to the ceiling wall 10 and to both side walls 11, 12. Accordingly, the reinforcing rib 38 can, in particular, also conform to the shape of the inside of the housing.

[0165] 6. In the present example, the reinforcing rib 38 thus has a U-shaped profile when viewed in cross-section. Not shown is that the reinforcing rib 38 can also be arranged only on the ceiling wall 10 or only on the ceiling wall 10 and at least one side wall 11, 12.

[0166] In particular, a plurality of reinforcing ribs 38 are provided, which can be arranged at a distance from one another. The spacing between the reinforcing ribs 38 can be identical or different.

[0167] In Fig. 9 it is shown that the reinforcing rib 38 has a through-opening 39. This through-opening 39 can then be used, for example, for the cable routing of different lines, cables or the like in the through-space

[0168] 7 can be used.

[0169] Fig. 9 also schematically shows a grating element 40. For reasons of clarity, the individual grating elements of the grating element 40 have not been shown. However, the grating element 40 can have a plurality of through openings to form a grating. The grating element 40 is arranged in particular on the floor of the housing 6. Particularly preferably, the grating element 40 is pivotable, as shown in Fig. 9. By pivoting the grating element 40 open, in particular, simple cleaning in the floor area of ​​the housing 6 can be enabled. Particularly preferably, a plurality of grating elements 40 arranged one behind the other is provided. The grating elements 40 can then define a path or route that can be used by operating personnel for maintenance of, for example, the conveyor device 9.

[0170] As previously explained, the tunnel units 4 or the connecting elements 14 of the extraction tunnel 1 can be arranged in a plan view at least substantially polygonal, which is already resulting from the modular structure of the extraction tunnel 1. Such a polygonal structure is shown, for example, in Fig. 4. The polygonal orientation of the extraction tunnel 1 shown in Fig. 4 can result in an at least substantially arc-shaped shape of the extraction tunnel 1. By segmenting the extraction tunnel 1 into individual tunnel units 4, an arc-shaped shape can be approximated. In the operational state, this has the advantage that at least substantially circular arc-shaped heaps 3 can be removed more effectively, as shown schematically in Fig. 11 and as has already been explained.

[0171] Not shown in detail is the fact that the tunnel units 4 and / or the connecting elements 14 of the discharge tunnel 1 can also be arranged at least substantially along a straight line in plan view. For example, a straight-aligned bulk material pile 3 can be treated accordingly for the removal of the bulk material 2.

[0172] The connecting element 14 can be wedge-shaped. A corresponding wedge-shaped design is shown, for example, in Fig. 10. Fig. 10 shows that the connecting housing 15 is at least substantially wedge-shaped from one connecting side wall 18 to the opposite connecting side wall 19. This wedge shape then enables the extraction tunnel 1 to assume, in particular, at least substantially an arcuate section shape, as shown in Fig. 4. The wedge shape also enables the tunnel units 4 to be arranged offset from one another. However, the provided sealing devices 34 can then still ensure a tight arrangement of the tunnel units 4. The corresponding bending of the extraction tunnel 1 can then be achieved, in particular, via the wedge-shaped connecting elements 14.The tunnel units 4 themselves can also be used to construct a straight line for the discharge tunnel 1 and, in particular, do not need to be curved in their longitudinal extension. However, this does not include the curved design of the ceiling wall 10.

[0173] Particularly preferably, the enclosure 6 and / or the connecting enclosure 15 comprises and / or consists of metal, in particular steel and / or aluminum. This material is particularly advantageous with regard to the transportability of the individual tunnel units 4.

[0174] Fig. 9 also shows a tunnel unit 4 for a discharge tunnel 1. This discharge tunnel 1 can thus be designed in particular according to one of the aforementioned embodiments. The tunnel unit 4 is intended for conveying bulk material 2 from a bulk material stockpile 3 and for storing it in the floor area 5 of the bulk material stockpile 3. The tunnel unit 4 comprises an enclosure 6 for covering at least the top and sides of the tunnel unit 4, facing the bulk material stockpile 3 in the use state, and for forming a passageway 7 within the tunnel unit 4. Furthermore, the tunnel unit 4 comprises a conveying device 9 in the passageway 7 for conveying bulk material 2. Particularly preferably, the tunnel unit 4 also comprises a feed device 8 for feeding the bulk material 2 into the passageway 7.Then, the conveying device 9 can be arranged in particular such that the bulk material 2 discharged via the feed device 8 can be transferred to the conveying device 9. For this purpose, the feed device 8 can be arranged on the conveying device 9 in particular in the manner described above.

[0175] The conveyor device 9 can protrude from the housing 6 on at least one end face 35 of the housing 6 and / or protrude from the housing 6. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the conveyor device 9 is arranged only within the housing 6. In any case, a conveyor device 9 is provided for the tunnel unit 4, which is arranged in the passage space 7.

[0176] The tunnel unit 4 according to the invention then enables the construction of a discharge tunnel 1.

[0177] It is understood that with regard to preferred embodiments of the tunnel unit 4, reference can be made to the above-mentioned argument, which is equally applicable to the tunnel unit 4 as such.

[0178] List of reference symbols:

[0179] Extraction tunnel

[0180] Bulk goods

[0181] Bulk material dump

[0182] Tunnel unit

[0183] Floor area

[0184] Enclosure

[0185] Passageway

[0186] Feeding device

[0187] conveyor system

[0188] Ceiling wall

[0189] side wall

[0190] side wall

[0191] floor wall

[0192] connecting element

[0193] Connection enclosure

[0194] Connection passageway

[0195] Connecting ceiling wall

[0196] Connection side wall

[0197] Connection side wall

[0198] Connecting floor wall

[0199] funnel

[0200] closure

[0201] Control device

[0202] Continuous conveyor

[0203] End of volume of 24

[0204] Connecting device

[0205] Guide element

[0206] Guide element

[0207] Holding arm further belt end of 24 further guide element open end of 14 further open end of 14

[0208] Sealing device a first sealing device 34b further sealing device

[0209] 35 open front of 4

[0210] 36 Stop edge

[0211] 37 Counter stop edge

[0212] 38 Support rib

[0213] 39 passage opening of 38

[0214] 40 grating element

[0215] 41 pivoting gravel conveyor

[0216] F Conveying direction of 24

Claims

Patent claims:

1. Discharge tunnel (1) for conveying bulk material (2) from a bulk material stockpile (3), with at least two tunnel units (4) for arrangement in the floor area (5) of the bulk material stockpile (3), wherein each tunnel unit (4) has an enclosure (6) for covering at least the top and sides of the tunnel unit (4) facing the bulk material stockpile (3) in the use state and for forming a passageway (7) within the tunnel unit (4), wherein each tunnel unit (4) has at least one conveyor device (9) for conveying bulk material (2) in the passageway (7), wherein the conveyor device (9) of a tunnel unit (4) is designed to transfer and / or discharge the bulk material (2) to the adjacent conveyor device (9) of the adjacent tunnel unit (4) or to discharge it from the discharge tunnel (1).

2. Extraction tunnel according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (6) has an upper ceiling wall (10) and side walls (11, 12) and, if necessary, a bottom wall (13), in particular wherein the ceiling wall (10), the side walls (11, 12) and / or the bottom wall (13) are designed as components closed to the outside.

3. Extraction tunnel according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one connecting element (14) of the extraction tunnel (1) is provided for the frontal connection of two adjacent tunnel units (4).

4. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tunnel unit (4) is designed for the modular construction of the extraction tunnel (1), in particular so that the extraction tunnel (1) is formed by at least substantially identical tunnel units (4) and / or at least substantially identical connecting elements (14).

5. Discharge tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (14) has a connecting housing (15) for at least the upper side facing the bulk material pile (3) in the use state and lateral cover of the connection element (14) and for forming a connection passage space (16) within the connection element (14), in particular wherein the connection housing (15) has a top-side connection ceiling wall (17) and connection side walls (18, 19) and, if required, a connection bottom wall (20), in particular wherein the connection ceiling wall (17), the connection side walls (18, 19) and / or the connection bottom wall (20) are designed as outwardly closed components, and / or in particular wherein the connection ceiling wall (17) protrudes and / or projects beyond the ceiling wall (10) of the adjacent housing (6) in the use state, preferably being arranged so as to overlap therewith at least in regions.

6. Discharge tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tunnel unit (4) has at least one feed device (8) for feeding the bulk material (2) into the passage space (7), in particular wherein the feed device (8) has a hopper (21) arranged on the outside of the housing (6) and a closure (22) adjoining the underside of the hopper (21) and / or arranged on the underside of the hopper (21) for feeding the bulk material (2) to the conveyor device (9) as required.

7. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a control device (23) is provided for controlling and / or regulating the closure (22) and / or the conveyor device (9), in particular the transport speed of a continuous conveyor (24) of the conveyor device (9).

8. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveying device (9) has a continuous conveyor (24), preferably a conveyor belt, in particular wherein the continuous conveyor (24) is arranged in an inclined position and / or with a gradient increasing in the conveying direction (F) of the continuous conveyor (24) in the passage space (7).

9. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the continuous conveyor (24) in the assembled state extends beyond the tunnel unit (4) with at least one belt end (25), in particular if necessary, projects beyond the connecting element (14) into the adjacent tunnel unit (4) and is preferably designed to be dropped onto the conveyor device (9) of the adjacent and / or upstream tunnel unit (4).

10. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closure (22) of the feed device (8) is connected to the conveying device (9), in particular to the continuous conveyor (24), to form a common structural unit, in particular via a connecting device (26), preferably a connecting box.

11. Discharge tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for guiding the bulk material (2) on the continuous conveyor (24) guide elements (27, 28), in particular guide plates, are provided which extend in the conveying direction and are arranged above the continuous conveyor (24) and in particular perpendicular thereto and are connected in particular via holding arms (29) to the housing (6) and / or the continuous conveyor (24), and / or that the continuous conveyor (24) has a troughed belt for conveying bulk material.

12. Discharge tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for guiding the bulk material (2) on the continuous conveyor (24) a further guide element (31) is provided which is arranged at the belt end (30) and runs transversely to the conveying direction (F) of the continuous conveyor (24), and which is preferably connected at the end to the guide elements (28, 29).

13. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the region of at least one open end face (32, 33) of the connection housing (15) of the connection element (14) and / or in the region of at least one open end face (35) of the tunnel unit (4) a, in particular circumferential, sealing device (34) is arranged, which can be arranged, preferably in a sealing manner, on the adjacent open end face (35) of the adjacent tunnel unit (4).

14. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing device (34) has an adaptable, adjustable, and / or variable width, in particular wherein the sealing device (34) is designed to be elastic and / or flexible at least in some regions, preferably to compensate for an offset between adjacent tunnel units (4).

15. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing device (34), in particular on the top and / or laterally, is covered by the connection housing (15) and / or the housing (6), in particular is set back relative to the open end face (32, 33) of the connection housing (15) of the connection element (14) and / or in particular relative to the open end face (35) of the housing (6), and / or that a stop edge (36), in particular at a right angle, projects from the inside of the connection housing (15) facing the connection passage space (16), which stop edge is designed in particular for arranging, preferably screwing, the sealing device (34) and / or for connecting and / or abutting against the open end face (35) of the adjacent tunnel unit (4).

16. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection housing (15) has a stop edge (36) in the region of the respective open end faces (32, 33) and / or that the tunnel unit (4) has at least one counter-stop edge (37) in the region of at least one open end face (35), in particular in the region of both open end faces (35), which preferably protrudes, in particular at right angles, from the inner side of the housing (6) facing the passage space (7) and / or which is designed to abut against the stop edge (36) of the adjacent connection element (14) and / or which is designed to abut against a counter-stop edge (37) of an adjacent tunnel unit (4) and / or to connect, preferably by screwing, to the sealing device (34) of the adjacent connection element (14) and / or the adjacent tunnel unit (4) lying thereon.in particular wherein the counter stop edge (37) is flush with the open end face (35) of the tunnel unit (4).

17. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the state of use, a sealing device (34) is in contact with the end face of each tunnel unit (4), in particular wherein a first sealing device (34a) is designed as a sealing lip and / or a flat, cavity-free seal and a further sealing device (34b) arranged on the end face (35) opposite the first sealing device (34a) is designed as a cavity-containing, in particular U-shaped, seal, in particular wherein the first and / or the further sealing device (34a, 34b) is connected to the adjacent counter-stop edge (37) and / or stop edge (36) in a frictionally engaged and / or positively engaged manner, preferably screwed, and / or in particular wherein the first and / or the further sealing device (34a, 34b) is connected to two edges each, in particular to a stop edge (36) and a counter-stop edge (37) or to two counter-stop edges (37).

18. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the inside of the housing (6) facing the passage space (7), in particular at least on the ceiling wall (10) and / or at least one side wall (11, 12), at least one reinforcing rib (38), in particular a plurality of adjacent reinforcing ribs (38), is arranged, in particular wherein the reinforcing rib (38) has a passage opening (39) for cable guidance.

19. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one pivotable grating element (40) is provided at least in some areas on the floor of the housing (6), in particular a plurality of grating elements (40).

20. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tunnel units (4) and / or the connecting elements (14) of the extraction tunnel (1) are arranged at least substantially polygonally in plan view, so that at least substantially an arcuate section shape of the extraction tunnel (1) results, and / or that the tunnel units (4) and / or the connecting elements (14) of the extraction tunnel (1) are arranged at least substantially along a straight line in plan view.

21. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection housing (15) is at least substantially wedge-shaped from one connection side wall (18) to the opposite connection side wall (19).

22. Extraction tunnel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (6) and / or the connection housing (15) are designed as Material comprises and / or consists of metal, in particular steel and / or aluminum.

23. Tunnel unit (4) for a discharge tunnel (1), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, provided for conveying bulk material (2) from a bulk material stockpile (3), and for arrangement in the floor area (5) of the bulk material stockpile (3), with a housing (6) for covering at least the top and sides of the tunnel unit (4) facing the bulk material stockpile (3) in the use state and for forming a passageway (7) within the tunnel unit (4), and with at least one conveying device (9) in the passageway (7) for conveying the bulk material (2), wherein the conveying device (9) protrudes from the housing (6) on at least one end face (35) of the housing (6) and / or projects out of the housing (6) or wherein the conveying device (9) is arranged only within the housing (6).

24. Tunnel unit according to claim 23, characterized in that at least one feed device (8) of the tunnel unit (4) is provided for feeding the bulk material (2) into the passage space (7).

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