Multi-rope trolley system

Abstract

A rapidly deployable power or electricity distribution system (10) or infrastructure with which electricity is transmitted or supplied to vehicle (12) along a route (14). The system (10) is made up of a plurality of power distribution modules which are interconnected or interlinked. Each module comprises a flexible conductor set (22) operatively extending in tensioned fashion along a span (26) defined between a first and second point (30, 32). A first substantially rigid bridge set (34) is supported relative to the second point (32) and operatively extends within a gap between the second point (32) of the span (26) and a first point (30) of and adjacent span (28) of an adjacent power distribution module. The module further comprises a support structure (36) or arrangement which operatively supports the flexible conductor set (22) and / or bridge set (34).

Description

[0001] MULTI-ROPE TROLLEY SYSTEM

[0002] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to a multi-rope trolley system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a rapidly deployable electrical distribution system or infrastructure with which electricity is supplied to a vehicle along a route.

[0004] Heavy mining vehicles, particularly those used in underground and open-pit mining, are often provided with electrical power through overhead mounted conducting infrastructure. These systems are employed and utilised to reduce diesel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning from diesel-powered vehicles to electric or hybrid vehicles. In this way, emissions produced at the point of use is minimized, and in cases where electricity can be sourced, at least in part, from renewable sources, the overall carbon footprint is reduced. Typically, the mining vehicles are fitted with pantograph structures which project upward to contact the overhead conducting infrastructure. Collectors associated with such pantographs are generally known as trolleys. As the trucks drive under the overhead cables, the pantographs connect to the cables, allowing the trucks to draw electrical power directly. This significantly reduces the reliance on diesel engines, especially when hauling up steep inclines, where fuel consumption is generally at its highest.

[0005] US 2022 / 0396152 A1 discloses a flexible sleeve housing an electrical conductor along the route of a haulage vehicle which does not require any extensive permanent infrastructure along the route travelled. The sleeve is picked up by the vehicle as it drives along the route and then placed back onto the road service for the next vehicle to interact with the sleeve as it passes by. Even though this system provides some solutions to the cost and time associated with deployment, the system is extremely limited in terms of the amount of power that can be transmitted, particularly since very small contacts are required to interact with the flexible sleeve. Scaling of the system is not possible. ZA 2023 / 05309 B is concerned with the inclusion of guiding wheels or sliding elements used for conducting electricity and discloses an alignment actuator for adjusting the guiding elements, ensuring proper contact between the current collector and the electric conductors. WO 2022 / 096115 A1 introduces a method for automatically aligning the current collector with a slotted element using electronic control units and position sensors. WO 2023 / 235133 A1 seeks to address issues relating to alignment between the trolley and the conductors and discloses a linkage “arm” extending from a haulage vehicle having multiple degrees of freedom. AU 2020 / 476229 A9 discloses a system which provides for the independent vertical and horizontal movement of the trolley relative to the overhead power supply and haulage vehicle.

[0006] Current electricity distribution systems are associated with known drawbacks. Of these, probably the most significant relates to the time and cost associated with the installation of the infrastructure. Typically, large overhead gantry structures or cantilever pylons are constructed along a route and the catenary and conductors are installed onto these. This construction activity is associated with large production delays and capital expenditure in the case of mining, where haul road infrastructure is typically cost-minimized.

[0007] Similarly, in underground mining operations, mounting conductors along tunnels requires precise engineering and installation, often leading to significant delays before the system becomes operational.

[0008] Furthermore, maintaining proper contact between the trolley and the conductors is challenging, considering the vehicle is manually driven by an operator (and not supported on tracks). Also, the amount of power that can be transmitted using these systems is often limited, as arcing or welding between components can occur and due to limited contact sizes between components.

[0009] Fixed electrical power distribution infrastructure is inherently inflexible once installed. Mining environments, whether open-pit or underground, are dynamic and subject to frequent changes in layout as operations progress. This is particularly true in open-pit mining, where the mining face continuously shifts as material is extracted. Similarly, in underground mining, tunnels and shafts may be extended, redirected, or expanded based on an ever-changing and evolving mining plan.

[0010] Furthermore, turning circles or bend radii associated with the use of some of the current solutions are not acceptable and restrict the ideal haul road design and pit shell curvature.

[0011] It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a power distribution system, a method of installing or establishing such a distribution system, a collector device used with such a distribution system, and a vehicle fitted with such a collector device that will, at least partially, address the above disadvantages.

[0012] It is also an object of the invention to provide a power distribution system, a method of installing or establishing such a distribution system, a collector device used with such a distribution system, and a vehicle fitted with such a collector device which will represent useful alternatives to existing systems, methods, devices and vehicles.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention there is provided a modular power distribution assembly for use in a power distribution system which operatively transmits electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the modular power distribution assembly comprising: a flexible conductor set operatively extending in tensioned fashion along a span defined between a first and second point; a first substantially rigid bridge set supported relative to the second point, the bridge set configured operatively to extend within a gap defined between the second point of the span and a first point of an adjacent span of an adjacent modular power distribution assembly; and a first support structure / arrangement operatively supporting the flexible conductor set and / or the first bridge set.

[0015] The flexible conductor set may comprise a first conductor arrangement operatively associated with a first polarity and a second conductor arrangement operatively associated with a second polarity. The first and second conductor arrangements may extend substantially parallel along a length of the span and may be separated by an isolating arrangement, in the form of one of a spacing and an isolating structure.

[0016] Each conductor arrangement may comprise at least one, but typically more than one, cable / rope. When relevant, the more than one cable / rope may extend substantially in adjacent fashion between the first and second points. In preferable examples, each conductor arrangement may comprises between one and ten cables / ropes, such as five cables / ropes.

[0017] Each cable / rope may have a first end which may operatively be anchored and a second end which may be an operatively floating end. The second end may operatively be biased by a tensioning arrangement in the form of a weight suspended from the second end, a biasing mechanism, such as in the form of a resiliently flexible element, or alternative biasing mechanisms.

[0018] The first substantially rigid bridge set may have a first end portion and a second end portion. The first substantially rigid bridge set may comprise a first bridge arrangement associated with the first conductor arrangement and a second bridge arrangement associated with the second conductor arrangement. The first and second bridge arrangements may be separated by an isolating arrangement taking the form of a spacing / gap or an insulating structure.

[0019] The first end portion may be configured as a concave entry / sleeve portion provided in contact with the respective cable / rope. Alternatively, the first end portion may be provided with a fixing arrangement for fixing the rope.

[0020] The second end portion may be configured as a concave exit / sleeve portion operatively provided in contact with a cable / rope of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly. In other cases, the second end portion may be provided with a fixing arrangement for fixing a rope of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly. Yet further alternatively, the second end portion may be configured to be installed proximate a further substantially rigid bridge set operatively extending within the gap.

[0021] Each bridge arrangement may comprise a number of bridge formations equal to a number of cables / ropes of the respective conductor arrangement.

[0022] Each bridge formation may comprise a substantially rigid track with an outer cross-sectional shape and size which may be substantially similar to that of the respective cable / rope.

[0023] Each bridge formation may have a convex or a semicircular outer cross-sectional shape.

[0024] The first substantially rigid bridge set may be configured in a linear / straight configuration or a curved configuration. In the case of a linear / straight configuration, the first and second end portions may be substantially aligned, such that the span and the adjacent span may operatively extend substantially in line. In the case of a curved configuration, the first and second end portions may be out of alignment and may be connected by a curved portion of the bridge set, such that the span and the adjacent span may operatively extend at a non-zero degree angle relative to each other.

[0025] The first substantially rigid bridge set may comprise a conductive bridge set which may be provided in contact with the first flexible conductor set and a flexible conductor set of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly, such that the conductor sets are provided in current flow communication with each other.

[0026] The modular power distribution assembly may furthermore comprise a second substantially rigid bridge set supported relative to the first point by a second support arrangement.

[0027] The first support arrangement may include a first support member which carries / s up ports the flexible conductor at the second point. The first support arrangement may include a second support member which may operatively carry / support a flexible conductor of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly at a first point thereof.

[0028] The first support member may comprise a pulley, bush or a sheave.

[0029] The first support arrangement may comprise a self-supported arrangement comprising a first pylon supported by a movable footing. The movable footing may comprise a triangular footing or a footing with three feet. Each movable footing may comprise a precast concrete structure or a steel structure. Each pylon may be pivotably mounted to its respective footing and may be supported by two adjustable struts that extend between the pylon and the footing. The support structures may be dimensioned such that the flexible conductor set may be supported between 4 and 8 meters above a support surface of the route.

[0030] The span may be between 5m and 50m in length.

[0031] The first bridge set may be between 0.1m and 50m in length.

[0032] In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a power distribution system for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the power distribution system comprising: a first modular power distribution assembly according to the first aspect of the invention; a second modular power distribution assembly according to the first aspect of the invention, arranged as a first downstream adjacent modular power distribution assembly to the first modular power distribution assembly, wherein the first substantially rigid bridge set of the first modular power distribution assembly extends within a gap defined between the second point of the span first modular power distribution assembly and the first point of the span of the second modular power distribution assembly.

[0033] The power distribution may comprise one or more further downstream modular power distribution assemblies. At least some gaps between adjacent spans may comprise one or more further substantially rigid bridge sets.

[0034] A power source may be provided as part of the system. The power source may supply a direct current to first and second conductor arrangements of each flexible conductor set. The first and second conductor arrangements of each conductor set may respectively be electrically connected to positive and negative terminals of the power source.

[0035] Alternatively, the power source may supply an alternating current to first and second conductor arrangements of each conductor set for single phase current or to first, second and third or more conductor arrangements for 3-phase current or poly-phase current. In some cases, the power source may be associated with a main feed line. Each conductor set may be connected to the main feed line by way of a branch feed line connected between the main feed line and the respective conductor set.

[0036] Each modular power distribution assembly may comprise a number of conducting cables / ropes. Each cable / rope may conduct between 1 kV and 4kv and between 2 and 6kA. The configuration may be such that each cable / rope operatively supplies about 1MW of electrical power to the vehicle.

[0037] In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of establishing a power distribution system for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the method comprising the steps of:

[0038] 51) installing a first modular power distribution assembly associated with a first span according to the first aspect of the invention along the route;

[0039] 52) installing a second modular power distribution assembly according to the first aspect of the invention downstream and adjacent to the first modular power distribution assembly such that the second modular power distribution assembly comprises a span which is adjacent to the first span;

[0040] 53) connecting the first and / or second modular power distribution assemblies electrically to an electrical power source.

[0041] Steps S1 and S2 may comprise at least some of the sub-steps of: placing a self-supported support structure associated with each of the modular power distribution assemblies along the route; installing a flexible conductor set to extend along the first span; installing a second flexible conductor set to extend along the adjacent span; and arranging a substantially rigid bridge set between the first span and the adjacent span.

[0042] The method may involve the following sub-steps in respect of the placing of each selfsupported support structure: preparing a substantially flat surface next to the route; placing a footing on the prepared surface; and adjusting a pylon pivotably connected to the footing to a substantially vertical orientation.

[0043] The method may involve the following sub-steps in respect of the installation of each flexible conductor set: arranging conductors of the respective flexible conductor set over pulleys / sheaves associated with the support structures; fixing first ends of the conductors relative to a first of the support structures; suspending second ends of the conductors relative to a second of the support structures; connecting the second ends of the conductors to respective tensioning devices to create a constant tension within the conductors.

[0044] Arranging the substantially rigid bridge may involve at least one of the sub-steps of: installing a substantially linearly extending bridge set to a common movable support structure associated with the first and second flexible conductor sets; installing a curved bridge set to a common movable support structure associated with the first and second flexible conductor sets; or installing at least one further movable support structure and supporting the bridge set, or a segment of the bridge set by the further movable support structure.

[0045] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a collector device for transmitting electric drive from a power distribution system comprising a first conductor arrangement with at least one conductor operatively associated with a first polarity and a second conductor arrangement with at least one conductor operatively associated with a second polarity, the collector device comprising first and second transmission arrangements, each transmission arrangement comprising one or more rows of at least two contacts operatively arranged in line with the respective conductor.

[0046] The collector device may comprise a housing arrangement manufactured from a non- conductive material, for supporting the contacts.

[0047] The first and second transmission arrangements may be separated by an isolating or non- conductive structure or portion of the housing arrangement.

[0048] Each row may comprise between two and ten contacts, typically five contacts.

[0049] Each transmission arrangement may comprise between one and ten rows of contacts, typically five rows of contacts.

[0050] Adjacent contacts in adjacent rows may be aligned in line in columns. The contacts may therefore be arranged in an array comprising rows and columns of contacts. The rows may extend in an operative travel direction of the collector device (longitudinally along a length of the conductor arrangements). The columns may extend laterally across the travel direction.

[0051] The housing arrangement may comprise a number of independently displaceable housing parts. Each column may be supported on an individual one of the housing parts. The housing parts may be laterally displaceable relative to each other or pivotably displaceable relative to each other.

[0052] In some cases, at least some of the contacts may be displaceable relative to the housing arrangement between extended and retracted positions. Each displaceable contact may be associated with a linear actuator.

[0053] Generally, each contact has either a flat or a concave contact surface.

[0054] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle including an electrical drive arrangement, the vehicle comprising: a laterally extending support arm; and a collector device according to the fourth aspect of the invention fixed to an end of the support arm.

[0055] In accordance with a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a power distribution system for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the power distribution system comprising: a first flexible tensioned conductor set extending along a first span between a first and second point; a second flexible tensioned conductor set extending along a second span between a first and second point; and a first substantially rigid bridge set extending within a gap between the second point of the first span and the first point of the second span, wherein each flexible conductor set comprises a first conductor arrangement operatively associated with a first polarity and a second conductor arrangement operatively associated with a second polarity, characterized in that each conductor arrangement comprises more than one cable / rope extending substantially in adjacent fashion between the first and second points.

[0056] The first and second conductor arrangements may extend substantially parallel along the respective span and may typically be separated by an isolating arrangement, in the form of a spacing or an isolating structure.

[0057] Each conductor arrangement may comprise between two and ten cables / ropes, typically, five cables / ropes.

[0058] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0060] Figure 1 shows a top perspective view of a power distribution system, in accordance with an aspect of the invention, which is arranged along a route, together with a vehicle fitted with a collector arrangement interacting with the power distribution system whilst traveling along the route; Figure 2 shows a top perspective view of the power distribution system of Figure 1 ;

[0061] Figure 3 shows a detailed portion of the top perspective view of a single support structure of the power distribution system of Figure 1 ;

[0062] Figure 4.A shows a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a bridge set forming part of the power distribution system of Figure 1 ;

[0063] Figure 4.B shows a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a bridge set forming part of the power distribution system of Figure 1 ;

[0064] Figure 5 shows a side view of the bridge set of Figure 4;

[0065] Figure 6 shows a top view of the detailed portion of the power distribution system of Figure 3, in which the flexible conductors are supported by a single supporting structure;

[0066] Figure 7 shows a schematic drawing of a route along which the power distribution system of Figure 1 is installed, in which different corner configurations along the route are shown;

[0067] Figure 8 shows a schematic side view of the power distribution system of Figure 1 ;

[0068] Figure 9 shows a side view of the power distribution system of Figure 1 in an area where the power distribution system extends substantially in a straight line and wherein a single support structure simultaneously acts as a second support structure in respect of a first conductor set, a first support structure in respect of a second conductor set and as a support structure for a substantially straight or linear bridge set;

[0069] Figure 10 shows a side view of a portion of the power distribution system of Figure 1 in a corner and wherein a bridge set extends between two support structures due to its relative size;

[0070] Figure 11 shows a side view of a portion of the power distribution system of Figure 1 , in which a bridge set is made up by a number of separate bridge segments comprising an entry segment which is associated with a first conductor set and which is supported by the second support structure of the first conductor set, a final or exit segment which is associated with a second conductor set and which is supported by the first support structure of the second conductor set, and an intermediate segment which is supported on its own by a single support structure;

[0071] Figure 12 shows a top perspective view of a first conductor arrangement and bridge arrangement (isolated from other components for clarity) of the power distribution system of Figure 1 , and in particular, wherein the bridge arrangement forms part of a linear or straight bridge set;

[0072] Figure 13 shows a top perspective view of a first conductor arrangement and bridge arrangement (isolated from other components for clarity) of the power distribution system of Figure 1 , and in particular, wherein the bridge arrangement forms part of a curved bridge set;

[0073] Figure 14 shows a bottom perspective view of a first embodiment of the collector arrangement of Figure 1 ;

[0074] Figure 15 shows a bottom perspective view of a second embodiment of the collector arrangement of Figure 1 ; Figure 16 shows a bottom perspective view of the second embodiment of the collector arrangement of Figure 15 in which housing portions of a housing of the collector arrangement are linearly or laterally displaced relative to each other;

[0075] Figure 17 shows a bottom perspective view of a third embodiment of the collector arrangement of Figure 1 ;

[0076] Figure 18 shows a bottom perspective view of the third embodiment of the collector arrangement of Figure 17 in which housing portions of a housing of the collector arrangement are pivotably displaced relative to each other;

[0077] Figure 19 shows a sectioned side view of a contact, in use, relative to a rope forming part of the power distribution system of Figure 1 ;

[0078] Figure 20 shows a sectioned front view of the contact of Figure 19; and

[0079] Figure 21 shows a bottom perspective view of a contact shoe of the contact of Figure 19.

[0080] DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

[0081] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "mounted", "connected", "engaged" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings and are thus intended to include direct connections between two members without any other members interposed therebetween and indirect connections between members in which one or more other members are interposed therebetween. Further, "connected" and "engaged" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. Additionally, the words "lower", "upper", "upward", "down" and "downward" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words or similar import. It is noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the," and any singular use of any word, include plural referents unless expressly and unequivocally limited to one referent. As used herein, the term “include” and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that can be substituted or added to the listed items.

[0082] It will be appreciated that various components shown in the figures are represented strictly conceptually. The figures are not necessarily to scale and different components within a single figure need not necessarily be shown to the same scale. Throughout this disclosure, unless clearly stated otherwise, a “rope” will be taken to refer to a flexible conductor of electricity. For the purpose hereof, the ropes will therefore be taken to be manufactured from a conductive material, such as steel. Furthermore, throughout this disclosure, a “trolley” and a “collector device” will be taken to be synonymous.

[0083] Referring to the drawings, in which like numerals indicate like features, a non-limiting example of a power distribution system (or simply “system”), in accordance with the invention, is generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The system 10 is provided for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle 12 along a route 14 which typically spans between a first point 16 and a second point 18. A road 20, which is typically a graded road, but which could take other forms without departing from the disclosure, extends along the route 14. In the examples provided herewith and shown in the figures, the vehicle 12 comprises a mining haul truck and the system is deployed in a mining environment. For example, the first point 16 could be located proximate a work face where excavations take place and where raw materials need to be collected from, whereas the second point 18 could be a downstream raw material handling facility, such as a raw material storage or crushing facility. The system 10, however, is not limited strictly to such uses in the mining industry and will be taken to extend to implementations falling outside thereof.

[0084] The vehicle 12 comprises one of a hybrid (being an electric / internal combustion hybrid) or a fully electric vehicle and therefore comprise at least some electrically driven drivetrain components. The system 10 is provided for operatively feeding electric current or power to the vehicle 12 along the route 14 which obviates or reduces the need for onboard electricity storage (such as by way of onboard batteries) or generation infrastructure.

[0085] The system 10 comprises at least a first and second flexible conductor sets (22.1 , 22.2) (reference numeral 22 is used to refer to flexible conductor sets in general). As discussed more fully below, the first and second flexible conductor sets may form part of two modular power distribution assemblies. The first and second conductor sets 22 extend along first and second spans (26, 28) each span associated with a first and second point (30, 32). A length of each span is limited (in part, due to the flexible nature of the conductor sets but also from a traffic management and electricity transmission [to different vehicles] point of view). Typically, the length of each span is between 10m and 50m, typically around 20m to 30m. It will be appreciated that a length of the route 14 is theoretically not limited, and therefore the system 10, which extends along the whole length or discrete parts of the route 14, may comprise more than two and typically large numbers of flexible conductor sets 22 (and therefore modules). Each flexible conductor set 22 is tensioned.

[0086] The system 10 is characterised in that a first substantially rigid bridge set 34.1 (reference numeral 34 is used to refer to substantially rigid bridge sets in general) extends within a gap between the first and second flexible conductor sets (22.1 , 22.2), and more particularly, between the second point 32 of the first span 26 and the first point 30 of the second span 28. Each module is associated with at least one such a bridge set. Within the larger system 10, at least one substantially rigid bridge set 34 is received between any two consecutive or adjacent flexible conductor sets 22.

[0087] The system 10 comprises support structures (generally indicated by reference numeral 36, with suffixes denoting “first” or “second” support structures where relevant). Each module is associated with at least one such support structure.

[0088] Each flexible conductor set 22 is supported relative to a first and second support structure (36.1 , 36.2). It will be appreciated that in some cases, a single support structure 36 may be used to serve as the second support structure 36.2 in respect of a first flexible conductor set 22.1 whilst simultaneously serving as the first support structure 36.1 in respect of a second flexible conductor set 22.2. This is shown, for example, in figure 3.

[0089] Each support structure 36 is self-supported and comprises a pylon or post 38 supported by a movable or mobile footing 40. “Movable” in this context refers to the fact that the footing 40 is not permanently fixed to the surface on or relative to which it is supported, and may at any point be moved, adjusted or removed. Self-supported, on the other hand, implies that the support structure 36 does not need to be fixed or anchored relative to another structure to be able to perform its function. It does, however, require a surface on which to rest. The relevance of the footing 40 being movable or mobile will become apparent from what follows. It will be appreciated, however, that the footing 40 has a significant size and weight to provide the necessary stability and support to the components supported thereby. Typically, the footing 40 is manufactured from a dense material, such as reinforced precast concrete or from steel. The footing 40 is substantially triangular in shape or at least have three support legs (not shown) to allow for stable placement of the footing relative to a surface next to the road 20. The pylon 38 is pivotably mounted to the footing 40 by means of a pivot joint 42 which allows pivoting of the pylon 38 about at least two axes. Two adjustable struts 44 extend between the pylon 38 and the footing 40 to support the pylon 38 in substantially vertical or upright fashion. It will be appreciated that adjustment of the struts 44 allows the pylon 38 to be provided substantially upright even when the footing 40 is not supported horizontally on the surface next to the road 20. The pylon 38 has a height such that the flexible conductor sets 22 and bridge sets 34 are supported between 4m and 8m above the surface of the road 20.

[0090] Each conductor set 22 comprises a first conductor arrangement 46 and a second conductor arrangement 48. The first and second conductor arrangements (46, 48) are associated with a first polarity (such as a positive polarity) and a second polarity (such as a negative polarity). The first and second conductor arrangements (46, 48) extend substantially parallel to each other and along the span and are separated by an isolating arrangement such as the air gap 50 shown in the figures. In other embodiments, the isolating arrangement may take the form of a physical non- conductive barrier. The isolating arrangement serves to separate the two opposite polarities from each other to avoid short-circuiting. Each conductor arrangement (46, 48) comprises at least one conductive cable or rope 52. However, typically and as shown in the figures, the conductor arrangements (46, 48) comprise more than one cable or rope 52, such as five cables or ropes arranged in adjacent and parallel fashion. In some cases, each conductor arrangement (46, 48) may include up to seven or even more cables or ropes 52. Each cable or rope 52 has a first 54 and a second end 56. The first end 54 of each rope 52 is fixed or retained relative to the first support structure 36.1 by means of a first anchor point 58, such as a clevis, clamping mechanism or the like. The second end 56 of each rope 52 is arranged relative to the respective second support structure 36.2 in floating fashion. The second end 56 is associated with a tensioning arrangement 59, which in the examples in the figures, takes the form of a weight 60 suspended from the second end 56. Other biasing mechanisms, such as flexible elements, springs, and the like, may alternatively be employed to bias and tension the second end 56 of the cable 52. The cable 52 runs over pulleys or sheaves 62 which are supported relative to the support structures, and which allow tension within the cable 52 to be evenly distributed along a length thereof.

[0091] The substantially rigid bridge set 34 may take various forms. Generally, the bridge set comprises a first bridge arrangement 64 and a second bridge arrangement 66 which are associated and operatively placed in line with the first and second conductor arrangements (46, 48) respectively. Each bridge arrangement (64, 66) serves as a bridging portion to connect or link or provide a near-continuous transition from one conductor set to the next. The first and second bridge arrangements (64, 66) are typically provided in contact with the respective conductor arrangements (46, 48) in between which they are arranged, such that electric current is allowed to flow across the bridge arrangements (64, 66). The bridge arrangements (64, 66) are separated by an isolating structure, again taking the form of an air gap, in which case the bridge arrangements (64, 66) take the form of two independent bodies (as shown in figure 4B), or a physical separating structure 68 from a non-conductive material (as shown in figure 4A). Each bridge arrangement (64, 66) furthermore comprises a number of bridge formations or ribs 70 which define an upper facing surface of the bridge arrangement (64, 66). The bridge arrangements may typically take a ridge and furrow shape. The number of bridge formations 70 of each bridge arrangement (64, 66) matches the number of cables or ropes 52 of the respective conductor arrangement (46, 48). A cross-sectional profile (or rather, an outer or upward-facing portion thereof) of the bridge formations 70 substantially matches the outer shape of the cable and is therefore substantially semicircular or concave. In use, and as is discussed more fully below, a collector arrangement 72 of the vehicle runs along the conductor sets and passes from one conductor set 22.1 to an adjacent conductor set 22.2 by running over the bridge set 34. Contacts 74 of the collector arrangement 72 run along an individual cable or rope 52 of the first conductor arrangement 22.1 , onto and over an individual bridge formation 70 of the bridge set 34 and onto and along an individual cable or rope 52 of the second conductor arrangement 22.2. Each bridge formation 70 furthermore defines a concave entry and exit (76, 78) which receive, contact and / or cradle the cable 52 as it runs over the pulleys 62. It is conceivable for each bridge arrangement (64, 66) to be made up of individual bridge formations 70 which are not formed as part of a larger body, as shown. Therefore, the bridge set 34 may comprise a set of individual bridge formations 70 arranged independently relative to the cables or ropes 52. This is not shown.

[0092] In a first form as shown in figures 1 to 6 and 12 the bridge set 34 is configured in a straight or linear configuration. However, the bridge sets 34 may also be configured to take up or define corners, bends or curves along the route (since the conductor sets 22 are flexible and tensioned, these cannot be used to define or extend along corners, bends or curves and since they need to be tensioned, always extend in a substantially straight line or linearly). Curved bridge sets 34. C as shown in figures 7 and 13 are provided for this purpose (the bridge sets 34. C define a curve when viewed from the top).

[0093] As shown schematically in figure 7, where the system 10 is arranged towards a left side of the road 20, the route 14 may comprise various corners, such as a first corner 80 which is a slight corner, a second corner 82 which is a hairpin corner (but where the system 10 extends along an outside or outer periphery of the hairpin corner), a third corner 84 which is also a hairpin corner (but where the system 10 extends along an inside or inner periphery of the hairpin corner) and a fourth corner 86 which is a 90-degree corner. In cases where the corner is slight or gradual, such as in the case of the first corner 80, a single or unitary curved bridge set 34. C may be used, which is typically supported on the same support structure 36 which serves as a second support structure 36.2 in respect of the first conductor set 22.1 and as a first support structure 36.1 in respect of the second conductor set 22.2. In cases where the corner is more severe, such as the 90 degree corner shown in figure 13, the bridge set 34 may still comprise a single or unitary curved bridge set 34. C, but now, due to a longer length of the bridge set, ends thereof are supported on two separate support structures 36. In other cases, such as the case of the fourth corner 86, the 90 degree corner may be associated with a curved bridge set 34. C made up of more than one bridge segment 88 (the segments 88 together and collectively making up or defining a single bridge set 34). Each segment 88 is typically supported by at least one distinct support structure 36 (an intermediate segment 88.3 may therefore in some cases be supported on its own by a single support structure 36. C as shown in figure 11). A first or entry segment 88.1 is associated with the first conductor set 22.1 while a final or exit segment 88.2 is associated with the second conductor set 22.2. In the case of larger corners, such as corners extending more than 90 degrees, such as the 180 degree hairpin corners shown of the second and third corners (82, 84) the bridge sets 34. C will almost always be made up of a number of separate segments 88.

[0094] It will be appreciated that a number of standard bridge sets 34, curved bridge sets 34. C and segments 88 may be held in stock, such that the system 10 may be installed along routes having various and complex geometries. The system 10 therefore always constitutes straight parts made up predominantly by flexible conductor sets 22 (and their corresponding linear bridge sets 34) while corners will always be facilitated by curved bridge sets 34. C.

[0095] Depending on whether the specific bridge set 34 comprises a linear or straight bridge set, or a curved bridge set, same may have a total length of between 0.1m and 50m, or even more. The length of individual segments 88 may be limited based on practical constraints, such as weight, structural stiffness, size (considering same needs to be kept in stock and easily transported to location as the system 10 is deployed, as mentioned below), and the like.

[0096] The system 10 comprises a power source (not shown) with which the first and second conductor arrangements (46, 48) are supplied with a flow of electrical current. Typically, the power source is a direct current power source. The first and second conductor arrangements (46, 48) may therefore be provided, directly or indirectly, in electrical contact with positive and negative terminals of the power source. Typically, a main feed line (not shown) may extend along the route, and branch feed lines may extend from the main feed line to the system. More particularly, the branch feed lines may be connected to the pulleys 62 to supply the conductor sets 22 with current. As mentioned, the bridge arrangements (64, 66) are provided in contact with the conductor sets 22 and may therefore provide consecutive conductor sets 22 in electrical connection with each other. This may limit arcing when the collector arrangement 72 passes over the bridge sets 34 in use.

[0097] Typically, each rope 52 carries between 1kV and 4kV, preferably around 2.6kV and between 2kA and 6kA, such that around 1MW of power is transmitted by each rope 52.

[0098] The system 10 as discussed hereinbefore is made up of (or can be segmented or broken down into) a number of modular power distribution assemblies. Each modular power distribution assembly comprises a flexible conductor set, a substantially rigid bridge set, and a support structure which operatively supports the flexible conductor and / or the bridge set. In use, therefore, the system comprises various such modular assemblies which are interconnected or linked together. When deploying or erecting the system 10 along the route, modular power distribution assemblies are successively installed along the route. Further modular power distribution assemblies can easily be added onto an existing system 10 to expand the system, and similarly, the system 10 can easily be disassembled or broken down by removing modular assemblies therefrom. A successive modular assembly is installed by arranging its flexible conductor set, and that of a preceding modular assembly, in communication with each other by means of a bridge set. The modular power distribution assemblies can be thought of as discrete modular parts of a larger system.

[0099] The modularity of the assemblies facilitates rapid deployment, installation and establishment of a power distribution system or network. This is especially useful in mining operations, where road networks and routes are continuously expanded and where rapid deployment of infrastructure is paramount. The rapid deployment of the system is facilitated, amongst others, by: - The fact that the footings 40 are movable and need not be planted, constructed or fixed in position. This means that no foundations need to be constructed and there are no associated cure times of concrete. Instead, once a new road section is constructed (such as by being graded), a number of movable footings 40 are simply moved into position at predetermined spacings along the road. Since the footings are either triangular or associated with three distinct feet, they are naturally stable (even though not necessarily perfectly horizontal). It is foreseen that each footing 40 may simply be placed in position using conventional construction or haul vehicles, such as forklifts or mobile cranes. A large number of footings may by stored in a stock area or yard of the mining operation.

[0100] - The adjustability of the pylons 38. Even in cases where the footings are not supported perfectly horizontally on the support surface, the pylons 38 can easily be adjusted to substantially vertical orientations, using the adjustable support struts 44.

[0101] - The fact that the conductive elements of the system 10 are predominantly made up of flexible conductors or ropes 52. Once the support structures 36 are positioned in place, the ropes 52 may simply be unspooled in the areas where required, and may be installed in position, firstly by being received over the pulleys 62, then by being fixed relative to the respective first support structure 36.1 and thereafter by being tensioned using the tensioning arrangement 59. Ropes 52 of standard length having ends fitted with eyelets or other suitable hardware to facilitate fixing and tensioning thereof may be kept in the stock area or yard, to facilitate easy and quick installation.

[0102] - The fact that bridge sets 34 come in standard configurations, being straight or linear bridge sets 34 and curved bridge sets 34. C with which various corners, bends and turns of the route can be followed.

[0103] - The fact that the system is made up of a discrete number of relatively standard units or modules (comprising straight or linearly extending conductors [tensioned flexible conductors] and standard curved units).

[0104] - In areas where longer or sharper corners are present, a substantially rigid track made up of segments 88 may be established before the remainder of the conductors are installed, and since the conductors leading into and flowing from the corner are made up of flexible conductor sets, their lengths can easily be adjusted to accommodate the start and end points of the substantially rigid track.

[0105] - A main feed line connected to a power source (which may comprise a mobile substantiation) may simply be placed along the route, with branch feed lines installed between the main feed line and the conductors.

[0106] It is believed that the installation time associated with the system 10 would be of an order of magnitude of days or weeks, rather than months or years. As a result, construction and downtime costs associated with establishing the power distribution network is reduced. In this regard, it is also noted that the system 10 can just as easily be disassembled, removed and repurposed, should a specific route no longer be considered relevant.

[0107] Reference is now made to figures 1 and 14 to 21 . The collector arrangement 72 is mounted to an articulating arm arrangement 89 which is mounted relative to the vehicle 12 by means of a pivot 90. The arm 89 may be a hydraulically, pneumatically or mechanically activated and sprung suspension arm. The arm arrangement 89 extends to the side of the vehicle to allow the collector arrangement 72 to be placed in contact with the system 10, which is located next to the road 20. The pivot is typically mounted towards a middle section of the vehicle 12, in other words, between a front and rear axle thereof, which is beneficial from a weight distribution point of view (generally, additional weight over the front axle of the vehicle should be avoided). However, it is conceivable, though perhaps not ideal, for the arm 89 to be mounted towards the front or rear of the vehicle 12. The arm arrangement 89 allows various degrees of freedom, such that the collector arrangement 72 is allowed to be displaced laterally and vertically relative to the vehicle 12 (forwards and rearwards displacement [in or against the direction of travel is inhibited]). This ensures that the contacts 74 can remain in contact with the conductors even when a height of the conductors relative to the road 20, or a distance between the vehicle 12 and the conductors (such in corners or when the vehicle is not steered completely straight) vary.

[0108] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the arm 89 supports the collector arrangement 72 such that the contacts 74 operatively face downward. Therefore, the contacts 74 contact upper surfaces of the conductors, and the collector arrangement 72 rests on top of the conductors sets 22 (and bridge sets 34 as the case may be). In this way, positive contact between the conducting elements and the contacts 74 are facilitated and a portion of the weight of the arm 89 and collector 72 is supported by the system 10 rather than by the vehicle itself. The collector arrangement 72 may therefore “float” under its own weight on the conductor elements. An effective weight of the vehicle may be reduced in this way. This may also reduce the structural requirements of the pivot 90 and other components of the arm 89, which may again result in a weight saving.

[0109] The collector arrangement 72 comprises a housing 92 which is manufactured from a non- conductive material, or which at the very least, have outward facing surfaces which are covered with a non-conductive layer. Furthermore, the collector arrangement 72 comprises first and second transmission arrangements (94, 96), each of which comprises an array or a collection of contacts 74, operatively associated with separate ones of the flexible conductor arrangements (46, 48). The first and second transmission arrangements (94, 96) are separated by a non- conductive arrangement 108, which may again take the form of an air gap, or a physical structure manufactured from a non-conductive material (which could simply be a portion of the housing 92).

[0110] Each of the first and second transmission arrangements (94, 96) comprises at least a first row 98 (in respect of all the rows, the suffix 1 refers to a row located in the first transmission arrangement 94 and the suffix 2 refers to a row located in the second transmission arrangement 96). Typically, however, the transmission arrangements (94, 96) comprise more than one row and more particularly, a number of rows corresponding to the number of ropes 52 in each conductor arrangement (46, 48). In the example in the figures, the transmission arrangements (94, 96) therefore also comprise a second row 100, third row 102, fourth row 104 and fifth row 106. It will be appreciated that the rows need not necessarily be straight (this is discussed in more detail below).

[0111] A collector arrangement 72 with a single contact 74 per row would theoretically be possible, though perhaps limited in terms of a contact area of the contact to the rope. Each row of the collector arrangement 72 therefore instead typically comprises at least two contacts 74. It will be appreciated that the contacts 74 of a particular row are provided to be associated with a particular rope 52. The more than one contacts 74 per row are provided to increase a contact area with the particular rope 52. Therefore, the higher the number of contacts per row, the larger the contact area with the particular rope and therefore the higher the potential for conducting electricity. In the example shown in the figures, each row comprises five contacts 74. Therefore, generally in use, five contacts 74 are provided in contact with each rope 52. Rows may be associated with higher numbers of contacts 74. Adjacent contacts 74 in adjacent rows are aligned inline, in columns. In the example shown in figure 14, the collector arrangement 72 comprises a first, second, third, fourth and fifth column (110, 112, 114, 116, 118). The complement of contacts 74 are therefore arranged in an array comprising rows and columns. The rows extend in an operative travel direction of the collector arrangement 72 which is longitudinally along a length of the conductor arrangements (46, 48) (when travelling in a straight line) and the columns extend laterally across the travel direction.

[0112] The contacts 74 are shown in more detail in figures 19 to 21. The contacts 74 comprise a contact shoe 120 manufactured from a conducting material, and which has a concave or semicircular downward facing formation 122 which is shaped complementarily to the shape of the ropes 52 to allow same properly to seat on and contact the ropes 52. The contacts furthermore comprise a body 123 which is mounted to or relative to the collector arrangement 72. The body 123 may, in some cases comprise a dashpot or biasing mechanism. The dashpot or biasing mechanism may allow a degree of linear displacement of the contact shoe 120 relative to the collector arrangement 72, to provide for proper seating thereof and to take up minor misalignments or height differences between adjacent ropes 52. The body 123 may therefore be individually sprung pneumatically or by means of a spring. In some cases, the dashpot may be retractable such that an individual contact shoe 120 may be lifted from contact with its respective rope 52.

[0113] The collector device 72 is shown in its most basic form in figure 14. Here, the housing 92 comprises a single integral structure with a number of receiving portions (not referenced) within which the contacts 74 are housed.

[0114] It will be appreciated that the rows do not remain perfectly straight when going around corners (such as corners defined by curved bridge sets 34. C). Therefore, provision needs to be made to allow the collector arrangement 72 to navigate corners. In the embodiment of the collector arrangement 72 shown in figure 14, the contact shoes 120 of the contacts in at least some of the columns need to have flat downward facing formations 122, such that these can slide relative to the bridge formations 70 around corners. Alternatively, as mentioned, the dashpots of these contacts may be retractable to allow the contacts to be retracted before entering a corner. Generally, the contact shoes are manufactured from wear resistant materials. Two alternative embodiments of the collector arrangement 72 are shown in figures 15 to 18. These embodiments specifically make provision for navigating corners, by providing separate housing portions 124 on which the columns are formed, which separate housing portions 124 are displaceable relative to each other. In figures 15 and 16, the housing portions 124 comprise dovetail-track arrangements 126 which allow relative lateral displacement of the housing portions 124. This allows the rows to become curved (such as shown by the first row 98.1 of the first transmission arrangement 94 which is shown schematically). In figures 17 and 18, the housing portions 124 are pivotably interconnected by pivots 128 which allow relative pivoting of the housing portions 124.

[0115] It will readily be appreciated that by providing a number of ropes per conductor arrangement, the amount of current flowing in each conductor arrangement may be reduced, or a larger total amount of current may be transferred to the vehicle. Similarly, by providing various contacts 74 per row, each contact 74 may conduct a smaller amount of current. In this way, known issues in respect of current transfer, such as arcing or welding between components, especially during high transfer scenarios (such as when a large, loaded vehicle needs to be accelerated from a standstill [which represents a very adverse scenario in that a high amount of power is required without any relative displacement between the contact 74 and the rope 52]).

[0116] It will also be appreciated that the various configurations of the housing 92 as discussed facilitate and accommodate small radii of curvature of the road, while the arm 89 allows large horizontal and vertical excursions of the vehicle relative to the conductors.

[0117] By providing various ropes capable of transmitting large amounts of power (up to 1 MW each), up to 3.5MW can continuously be allocated to drive motors driving wheels of the vehicle, while a further amount of power, again potentially up to 3.5MW, may be allocated to charging onboard batteries.

[0118] The spacing distance between pylons may be shortened in corners and especially in turns with relatively tighter radii of curvature.

[0119] The pulleys or sheaves are allowed to rotate about shafts, and therefore, tensions within the various ropes 52 are substantially similar, resulting in substantially similar catenary shapes of the ropes. The pulleys or sheaves associated with a particular conductor arrangement may be mounted to a single common shaft.

[0120] Top substructures of the support structures (which carry the pulleys and / or bridge sets) may be rotatable relative to the remainder pylon or the base, to assist installation and alignment, especially in corners. The top substructures may be lockable in place. At a start of the system 10, a plastic or metal funnel or guide may be provided to guide the collector arrangement into a proper position relative to the flexible conductor sets.

[0121] It is possible for the bridge sets to be spring loaded relative to the conductor sets.

[0122] In some cases, the bases 40 may be pegged or piled into position. It will be appreciated that this still does not constitute permanent fixing of the bases relative to the support surface. Since the bases are movable, all of the components used in the system 10 may be reused, and redeployed in new areas, as the need arises. Alternatively, in cases where the system is deployed in a more permanent fashion, the support structure may be permanently fixed and installed in place. The support structure may take other forms than those illustrated.

[0123] It will be appreciated that the system may find application outside mining operations, such as in agricultural settings, on-highway transportation and the like.

[0124] Since the system 10 is situated towards a side of the road 20, the height of the system can be reduced (compared to current overhead solutions) which results in a further cost saving.

[0125] In the case of the power source supplying alternating current, each flexible conductor set may comprise more than two conductor arrangements, and each bridge set will therefore also comprise more than two bridge arrangements. For example, in the case of three phase alternating current being supplied to the system, three conductor arrangements and three bridge arrangements will be present. Similarly, in the case of poly phase (for example six phase) alternating current, more than three conductor arrangements and bridge arrangements will be present. These additional conductor and bridge arrangements are substantially similar to the first and second conductor and bridge arrangements described hereinbefore.

[0126] The bridge arrangements use a “sheave approach” - the wires are terminated and anchored well away from the bridge, and the sheaves allow a smooth geometric meshing of the flexible wires and solid bridge elements.

[0127] The system performs the task of connecting multiple contact shoes to multiple flexible conductor segments, in a way that allows electrical power to flow continuously while the shoes move continuously relative to the conductors. Having multiple conductor segments overcomes the problem of relocating the conductor segments - many small conductors can be moved far quicker and can be done in a more modular fashion than a single long conductor move.

[0128] It will be appreciated that the above description only provides an example embodiment of the invention and that there may be many variations without departing from the spirit and / or the scope of the invention.

[0129] For example, it is possible for the first and second conductor arrangements (46, 48) to be arranged and supported substantially vertically. In such cases, the collector arrangement 72 has to be adapted to make contact from the side rather than from the top, and associated adjustments to the collector arrangement 72 will be required. Furthermore, the disclosure is not intended to be limited by the number of ropes 52, contacts 74, rows, columns or the like shown in the embodiments. It will be easily understood from the present description that the particular features of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged and designed according to a wide variety of different configurations. In this way, the description of the present invention and the related figures are not provided to limit the scope of the invention but simply represent selected embodiments.

[0130] The skilled person will understand that the technical characteristics of a given embodiment can in fact be combined with characteristics of another embodiment, unless otherwise expressed or it is evident that these characteristics are incompatible. Also, the technical characteristics described one embodiment can be isolated from the other characteristics of this embodiment unless otherwise expressed.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A modular power distribution assembly for use in a power distribution system which operatively transmits electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the modular power distribution assembly comprising: a flexible conductor set operatively extending in tensioned fashion along a span defined between a first and second point; a first substantially rigid bridge set supported relative to the second point, the bridge set configured operatively to extend within a gap defined between the second point of the span and a first point of an adjacent span of an adjacent modular power distribution assembly; and a first support structure / arrangement operatively supporting the flexible conductor set and / or the first bridge set.

2. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the flexible conductor set comprises a first conductor arrangement operatively associated with a first polarity and a second conductor arrangement operatively associated with a second polarity, the first and second conductor arrangements: extending substantially parallel along a length of the span; and separated by an isolating arrangement, in the form of one of a spacing and an isolating structure.

3. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 2, wherein each conductor arrangement comprises at least one cable / rope.

4. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 2, wherein each conductor arrangement comprises more than one cable / rope extending substantially in adjacent fashion between the first and second points.

5. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 2, wherein each conductor arrangement comprises between one and ten cables / ropes.

6. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 3, wherein each cable / rope has a first end which is operatively anchored and a second end which is an operatively floating end, wherein the second end is operatively biased by a tensioning arrangement taking the form of one of: i) a weight suspended from the second end; and ii) a biasing mechanism in the form of a resiliently flexible element.

7. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first substantially rigid bridge set has a first end portion and a second end portion, and wherein the first substantially rigid bridge set comprises: a first bridge arrangement associated with the first conductor arrangement; and a second bridge arrangement associated with the second conductor arrangement, wherein the first and second bridge arrangements are separated by an isolating arrangement taking the form of one of: i) a spacing; and ii) an insulating structure.

8. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first end portion is one of: i) configured as a concave entry / sleeve portion provided in contact with the respective cable / rope; and ii) provided with a fixing arrangement for fixing the rope.

9. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 7, wherein the second end portion is one of: i) configured as a concave exit / sleeve portion operatively provided in contact with a cable / rope of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly; ii) provided with a fixing arrangement for fixing a rope of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly; and iii) configured to be installed proximate a further substantially rigid bridge set operatively extending within the gap.

10. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 7, wherein each bridge arrangement comprises a number of bridge formations equal to a number of cables / ropes of the respective conductor arrangement.

11. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 10, wherein each bridge formation comprises a substantially rigid track with an outer cross-sectional shape and size which is substantially similar to that of the respective cable / rope.

12. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 11 , wherein each bridge formation has one of a convex and a semicircular outer cross-sectional shape.

13. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first substantially rigid bridge set is configured in one of: a linear / straight configuration wherein the first and second end portions are substantially aligned, such that the span and the adjacent span operatively extend substantially in line; a curved configuration wherein the first and second end portions are out of alignment and connected by a curved portion of the bridge set, such that the span and the adjacent span operatively extend at a non-zero degree angle relative to each other.

14. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the first substantially rigid bridge set comprises a conductive bridge set which is provided in contact with the first flexible conductor set and a flexible conductor set of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly, such that the conductor sets are provided in current flow communication with each other.

15. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a second substantially rigid bridge set supported relative to the first point by a second support arrangement.

16. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the first support arrangement includes a first support member which carries / supports the flexible conductor at the second point.

17. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 16, wherein the first support arrangement includes a second support member which operatively carries / supports a flexible conductor of the adjacent modular power distribution assembly at a first point thereof.

18. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 16, wherein first support member comprises one of a pulley, bush and sheave.

19. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the first support arrangement comprises a self-supported arrangement comprising a first pylon supported by a movable footing.

20. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 19, wherein the movable footing comprises one of: i) a triangular footing; and ii) a footing with three feet.

21. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 19, wherein each movable footing comprises one of a precast concrete structure and a steel structure.

22. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 19, wherein each pylon is pivotably mounted to its respective footing and is supported by two adjustable struts that extend between the pylon and the footing.

23. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 19, wherein the support structures are dimensioned such that the flexible conductor set is supported between 4 and 8 meters above a support surface of the route.

24. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the span is between 5m and 50m in length.

25. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the first bridge set is between 0.1 m and 50m in length.

26. The modular power distribution assembly according to claim 5, wherein each conductor arrangement comprises five cables / ropes.

27. A power distribution system for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the power distribution system comprising: a first modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 ; a second modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 arranged as a first downstream adjacent modular power distribution assembly to the first modular power distribution assembly, wherein the first substantially rigid bridge set of the first modular power distribution assembly extends within a gap defined between the second point of the span first modular power distribution assembly and the first point of the span of the second modular power distribution assembly.

28. The power distribution system according to claim 27, further comprising one or more further downstream modular power distribution assemblies.

29. The power distribution system according to claim 27, wherein at least some gaps between adjacent spans comprise one or more further substantially rigid bridge sets.

30. The power distribution system according to claim 27, further comprising a power source.

31. The power distribution system according to claim 30, wherein the power source supplies a direct current to first and second conductor arrangements of each flexible conductor set, and wherein the first and second conductor arrangements of each conductor set are respectively electrically connected to positive and negative terminals of the power source.

32. The power distribution system according to claim 30, wherein the power source supplies an alternating current to one of: first and second conductor arrangements of each conductor set for single phase current; and first, second and third or more conductor arrangements for 3-phase current or polyphase current.

33. The power distribution system according to claim 30, wherein the power source is associated with a main feed line and wherein each conductor set is connected to the main feed line by way of a branch feed line connected between the main feed line and the respective conductor set.

34. The power distribution system according to claim 30, wherein each modular power distribution assembly comprises a number of conducting cables / ropes, and wherein each cable / rope conducts between 1kV and 4kv and between 2 and 6kA.

35. The power distribution system according to claim 34, wherein the configuration is such that each cable / rope operatively supplies about 1MW of electrical power to the vehicle.

36. A method of establishing a power distribution system for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the method comprising the steps of:51) installing a first modular power distribution assembly associated with a first span according to claim 1 along the route;52) installing a second modular power distribution assembly according to claim 1 downstream and adjacent to the first modular power distribution assembly such that the second modular power distribution assembly comprises a span which is adjacent to the first span;53) connecting the first and / or second modular power distribution assemblies electrically to an electrical power source.

37. A method of establishing a power distribution system according to claim 36, wherein steps S1 and S2 comprise the sub-steps of: placing a self-supported support structure associated with each of the modular power distribution assemblies along the route; installing a flexible conductor set to extend along the first span; installing a second flexible conductor set to extend along the adjacent span; and arranging a substantially rigid bridge set between the first span and the adjacent span.

38. A method according to claim 37, comprising the following sub-steps in respect of the placing of each self-supported support structure: preparing a substantially flat surface next to the route; placing a footing on the prepared surface; and adjusting a pylon pivotably connected to the footing to a substantially vertical orientation.

39. A method according to claim 37, comprising the following sub-steps in respect of the installation of each flexible conductor set: arranging conductors of the respective flexible conductor set over pulleys / sheaves associated with the support structures; fixing first ends of the conductors relative to a first of the support structures; suspending second ends of the conductors relative to a second of the support structures; connecting the second ends of the conductors to respective tensioning devices to create a constant tension within the conductors.

40. A method according to claim 37, wherein arranging the substantially rigid bridge involves at least one of the sub-steps of: installing a substantially linearly extending bridge set to a common movable support structure associated with the first and second flexible conductor sets; installing a curved bridge set to a common movable support structure associated with the first and second flexible conductor sets; or installing at least one further movable support structure and supporting the bridge set, or a segment of the bridge set by the further movable support structure.

41. A collector device for transmitting electric drive from a power distribution system comprising a first conductor arrangement with at least one conductor operatively associated with a first polarity and a second conductor arrangement with at least one conductor operatively associated with a second polarity, the collector device comprising first and second transmission arrangements, each transmission arrangement comprising one or more rows of at least two contacts operatively arranged in line with the respective conductor.

42. The collector device according to claim 41 comprising a housing arrangement for supporting the contacts, the housing arrangement manufactured from a non-conductive material.

43. The collector device according to claim 42, wherein the first and second transmission arrangements are separated by an isolating or non-conductive structure or portion of the housing arrangement.

44. The collector device according to claim 42, wherein each row comprises between two and ten contacts.

45. The collector device according to claim 44, wherein each row comprises five contacts.

46. The collector device according to claim 44, wherein each transmission arrangement comprises between one and ten rows of contacts.

47. The collector device according to claim 46, wherein each transmission arrangement comprises five rows of contacts.

48. The collector device according to claim 46, wherein adjacent contacts in adjacent rows are aligned in line in columns, such that the contacts are arranged in an array comprising rows and columns of contacts, in which the rows extend in an operative travel direction of the collector device which is longitudinally along a length of the conductor arrangements and in which the columns extend laterally across the travel direction.

49. The collector device according to claim 48, wherein the housing arrangement comprises a number of independently displaceable housing parts, wherein each column is supported on an individual one of the housing parts.

50. The collector device according to claim 49, wherein the housing parts are one of: i) laterally displaceable relative to each other; and ii) pivotably displaceable relative to each other.

51. The collector device according to claim 42, wherein at least some of the contacts are displaceable relative to the housing arrangement between extended and retracted positions.

52. The collector device according to claim 51 , wherein each displaceable contact is associated with a linear actuator.

53. The collector device according to claim 42, wherein each contact has a flat or concave contact surface.

54. A vehicle including an electrical drive arrangement, the vehicle comprising: a laterally extending support arm; and a collector device according to claim 41 fixed to an end of the support arm.

55. A power distribution system for transmitting electrical power to a vehicle along a route, the power distribution system comprising: a first flexible tensioned conductor set extending along a first span between a first and second point; a second flexible tensioned conductor set extending along a second span between a first and second point; and a first substantially rigid bridge set extending within a gap between the second point of the first span and the first point of the second span, wherein each flexible conductor set comprises a first conductor arrangement operatively associated with a first polarity and a second conductor arrangement operatively associated with a second polarity, characterized in that each conductor arrangement comprises more than one cable / rope extending substantially in adjacent fashion between the first and second points.

56. The power distribution system according to claim 55, wherein the first and second conductor arrangements:extend substantially parallel along the respective span; and are separated by an isolating arrangement, in the form of one of a spacing and an isolating structure.

57. The power distribution system according to claim 55, wherein each conductor arrangement comprises between two and ten cables / ropes.

58. The power distribution system according to claim 57, wherein each conductor arrangement comprises five cables / ropes.

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