Rack device for a mining machine

Abstract

A rack device extends along the side wall of a face conveyor for a mining machine and essentially includes a plurality of elongated rack segments supporting spaced-apart drive members along the length of each segment. The rack segments are joined together in an end-to-end relation by a rod member passed through an eyelet opening in extensions projecting from the rack segments. The rod member is arranged at the joint between rack segments such that the rod member lies between, preferably midway between, adjoined sections of the face conveyor. A duct extends between the side wall of the face conveyor and a spill plate which is formed by a plurality of plate members arranged side-by-side to extend along the face conveyor. The duct has upstanding side walls with openings to receive and support the rod member used to join together the rack segments. The openings in the extensions of the rack segments as well as the openings in the side wall of the duct member are elongated for limited longitudinal movement of the rack segments in relation to the face conveyor. Further details and modifications are disclosed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.