Transport apparatus for heavy open-cast working equipment

Abstract

Transport apparatus is provided for heavy duty equipment which allows for the interchangeable connection of the caterpillar power drive units used for transport of a plurality of supporting frames holding different pieces of heavy equipment. A lesser number of expensive drive units is required for moving a lot of equipment. This is achieved by providing separate support bases or feet for each of the supporting frames. Each of the bases include a mechanism for lifting the supporting frames so that the power drive units can move under the supporting frame being transported. Also, each of the caterpillar power drive units include a connector device for connection to the supporting frame to be supported. Each connector device, in turn, includes hydraulically operated arms for relative vertical displacement between the drive unit and the support frame and universal relative horizontal displacement. In addition, electrical, mechanical or other connections are provided between the several power units to coordinate movement direction, steering, and the relative torsional effects of the various units on the supporting frame.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.