Endless chains comprised of interdigitated link elements having a Y-shaped configuration

Abstract

An endless chain in which there is one row of a plurality of Y-shaped link elements across the width of the chain and an adjacent row of similar elements, the spaced parallel legs of the Ys of one row having the centrally located stem of a Y-shaped link element in an adjacent row interdigitated therewith, the legs and stem being provided with aligned openings which receive a connecting pin. This arrangement is continued along the length of the chain to whatever extent is desired. Any desired widths may be obtained by adding Y-shaped link elements to the rows thereof. Bit carrying lugs are mounted on the Y-shaped link elements so as to establish any bit pattern desired. Some of these bit carrying lugs may be skewed with respect to the direction of chain travel so as to make the chain more efficient. Such link elements may also be provided with load bearing lugs at one or more of the their sides so as to give increased support for the chain. The arrangement of interdigitated, Y-shaped link elements makes possible the provision of an unusually sturdy chain requiring only a minimum number of major chain parts so that the mine owner or operator need stock only a relatively small number of parts, both as to type and as to overall quantity.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.