Underground mining rib support system and method
OwnerMichael H. LEE, Regis Thomas Satinainventors
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A rib support system, a rib support device, a rib support method, a method for manufacturing a rib support device, and a computer readable medium are provided as described herein. The rib support device is configured to support a mine or tunnel rib (or wall) or roof to prevent spalling, and to provide safety and long term protection of tunnel (or open) areas. The rib support device may be made from a high density polyethylene (HDPE) material, or the like, that is resistant to corrosion, has superior overall performance and strength, has few (or no) sharp edges, is light weight, and is easy to handle.
Claims18
A rib support system for supporting a rib to prevent spalling of the rib and to provide safety and long term protection of a mine, a tunnel or an open area, the system comprising:
- a rib support device that is made of a high density polyethylene (HDPE) material;
- and
- a fastener that is configured to fasten the rib support device to the rib.
A method for supporting a rib in a mine, a tunnel, or an open area to prevent spalling of the rib and to provide safety and long term protection of the mine, the tunnel or the open area, the method comprising:
- providing a rib support device that includes a predetermined length, a predetermined width, and a predetermined angle of curvature;
- positioning the rib support device in a location on a rib or a roof;
- providing a fastener that is configured to attach the rib support device to the rib or the roof;
- and
- affixing the rib support device to the rib or the roof by means of the fastener.
A method for manufacturing a rib support device, the method comprising:
- providing a mold for a rib support;
- pouring or injecting into the mold a high density polyethylene material;
- curing the mold for a predetermined period of time;
- and
- removing the rib support from the mold.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.