Mine Passage Mesh Handling Apparatus with Rotary Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for applying mesh in underground mining are complex and require significant manual intervention, limiting automation and increasing man-hours, which hampers efficiency and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A mesh handling apparatus with a spindle-supported roll of mesh, an extendable arm, and rotary actuators that allow independent movement of the arm relative to the mast, enabling the mesh to be applied along a mine passage with reduced manual effort, using a boom to support the mast and drill head, and allowing for rotation and extension to facilitate efficient mesh placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual intervention is used to support and tension the grid material during installation, then the mesh can be applied to the mine passage face, but the complexity of the operation increases and significant operator involvement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the mining machine's own movement through the mine passage to automatically advance the mesh application. The mesh roll is mounted on the machine and fed forward as the machine progresses, eliminating the need for separate manual support and tensioning operations. The machine serves itself by integrating mesh application into its primary advancement function.
Solution Approach 2:
The mesh application function is merged with the mining machine's advancement operation. The mesh dispensing mechanism is integrated into the machine's structure, combining two previously separate operations (machine advancement and mesh application) into a single coordinated process, thereby reducing overall operational complexity.
2Reliability
If manual intervention is used to ensure proper tension throughout the mesh installation, then the mesh can be properly applied, but the man hours required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh tensioning is achieved through the natural tension created by the mesh being fed from the roll as the machine advances. The system self-regulates tension through the mechanics of mesh unwinding from the roll and the resistance of the mesh against the mine passage face, eliminating the need for manual tensioning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mesh is pre-mounted on the mining machine before operation begins. The roll is positioned and secured on the machine's mesh support structure in advance, so that during operation the mesh is already in position and ready to be applied, eliminating the need for manual tensioning and positioning during the installation process.
3Extent of automation
If a roll of mesh is carried by the mining machine and applied during advance, then automation is improved, but the system remains complex and requires frequent manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh application system is segmented into simple, independent components: a mesh roll mounted on a spindle, a guide for directing the mesh, and the mining machine's existing advancement mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently without complex interconnections, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mining machine's existing structure and movement capabilities are used to perform the mesh application function. The machine's boom, arm, and advancement mechanism serve dual purposes: both mining operations and mesh application, eliminating the need for dedicated complex mesh application equipment and reducing system complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
An apparatus applies mesh from a roll to a face of a mine passage. A spindle is adapted for supporting the roll of mesh. An arm supporting the spindle extends in a generally vertical direction and is adapted for rotation about an axis aligned with a direction of elongation of the mine passage such that the spindle traverses a path for applying the mesh from the roll to the face. A mast independent of the arm carries a drill head for drilling into the face of the mine passage. Related methods are also described.