US1836250A - Mining apparatus - Google Patents

Description

4 Sheets-SheetV l Dec. 15, 1931. M. P. HOLMES MINING APPARATUS Filed Jan. 12, 1927 D. 15, 1931. M, p, HOLMES 1,836,250

MINING APPARATUS Filed Jan. l2, 1927 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 @AMAMAW any.

Dec. l5, 1931. M. P. HOLMES 1,836,250

MINING APPARATUS Filed Jan. 12, 192'? 4 Sheets-Sheet 3 [neen/Z071' Mai-rSRHaZmeS.

M. P. HOLMES 1,836,250

MLNING APPARATUS Filed Jan. l2, 1927 4 SheetsSheet 4 any.

Patented Dec. 15, 1931 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE i MORRIS P. HOLMES, F CLAREMONT, NEW HAMPSHIRE, ASSIGNOB T0 SULLIVAN MA- CHINERY COMPANY, A CORPORATION OF MASSACHUSETTS MINING APPARATUS Application iled January 12,1927. Serial No. 160,738.

This invention pertains to mining apparatus and more particularly to coal mining machines for cutting and loading coal in mines.

An object of this invention is to provide an improved mining apparatus. Another object is to provide an improved unitary coal cutting and loading machine. Still another object of this invention is to provide an improved coal cutting and loading machine whereby the coal may be simultaneously cut and loaded. Yet another object of this invention is to provide an improved longwall mining machine for undercutting the coal and having mounted thereon conveying means for loading the coal as cutting progresses. Still another object of this invention is to provide an improved combined cut- 4 ting and loading machine having improved feeding means therefor. Another object is to provide an improved cutting and loa-ding machine having an improved, simplified, and compact general arrangement of parts whereby the machine may be operated in mines having low head room, the lateral limits of the machine also being reduced to a minimum to enable the machine to operate on a longwall face in the relatively narrow space between the face and the roof props.

These and other objects and advantages of this invention will, however, hereinafter more fully appear.

In the accompanying drawings there is shown for purposes of illustration one embodiment which the invention may assume in practice.

In these drawings,-

Fig. 1 is a plan view of the improved mining apparatus, the view being partially shown in section to illustrate details of construction.

Fig. 2 is a. side elevational view, partially in section, of the apparatus shown in Fig. 1, the loading boom and the cutter bar being shown in a plurality of positions.

Fig. 3 is a transverse vertical sectional view taken substantially on line 3 3 of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a central longitudinally extending sectional view taken on line 4-4 of Fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a front end elevational view of the improved mining apparatus.

Fig. 6 is a detail sectional View taken on line 6 6 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 7 is a central longitudinally extending vertical developed sectional view taken substantially on line 7-7 of Fig. 1.

Fig. 8 is a detail sectional view taken on line 8-8 of Fig. 7.

ln this illustrative construction there is shown a mining apparatus of the combined cutting and loading type especially adapted for cutting and loading coal and generally comprising a machine frame 1 mounted on endless tracklaying treads 2 and having pivoted thereon about a vertical axis at 3 for swinging movement in a horizontal lane an elongated plane cutter bar 4. An en less cutter bit carrying cutter chain 5 is mounted on the margin of the cutter bar and is adapted to be circulated thereabout. Supported on the forward end of the frame 1 is improved material gathering or conveying mechanism generally designated 6 and a laterally extending slide or chute 7 into which the conveying mechanism discharges. The machine frame 1 comprises a motor section 8, a feed section 9, and a cutter and conveyor carrying section 1.0, the motor section 8 being interposed between the sections 9 and 10 and rigidly secured thereto in any approved manner. Housed within the motor frame section 8 is a driving motor 11 which herein may be of the usual reversible electric type having a horizontal armature shaft 12 extending longitudinally of the machine and the motor is adapted to drive the improved feedin(r mechanism, the cutting mechanism, and t e conveying mechanism as will hereinafter be fully described.

As shown in the drawings the improved feeding mechanism specifically comprises a spur pinion 13 rigidly secured to the rear end of the armature shaft 12 of the motor. This pinion is adapted to effect actuation of the tracklaying treads 2 through suitable fast and slow speed transmission mechanism under friction control. First considering the fast speed mechanism it will be noted that the pinion 13 meshes with a spur gear 14 fixed to a shaft 15 which is journaled in the frame in suitable bearings 16. Also fixed to the shaft 15 is a spur pinion 17 which meshes with an internal gear 18 having a hub 19 herein journaled on a suitable bearing sleeve 20, the sleeve being mounted on a clutch member 21 keyed at 22 to a horizontal main feed driving or transmission shaft 23 extending longitudinally of the machine and journaled at its opposite ends in suitable bearings 24 and intermediate its ends in suitable bearings 25 carried within the feed frame section 9. Moreover, it will be noted that the member 21 carries a series of friction clutch plates 26 which are interleaved with a series of friction clutch plates 27 carried by a sleeve on the internal gear 18. As shown, the sleeve on the internal gear is also provided with a plurality of radially located longitudinally extending slots 28 receiving radial fingers 29 formed on an interlocking member 30 keyed to the hub of a pinion 31, the latter being rotatably mounted on the shaft 23. Between these fingers 30 are friction clutch operating fingers 32 carried by a cylindrical member 33 disposed coaxially with the hub of the pinion 31. These fingers 32 extend longitudinally in contact with the end plate of the series of clutch plates 26, 27 As illustrated, the outer end of the shaft 23 has suitably secured thereto a spur pinion 34 which meshes with a spur gear 35 fixed to a shaft 36 journaled in suitable bearings 37. Also fixed to the shaft 36 is a spur pinion 38 which meshes with an internal gear 39 keyed as at 40 to a horizontal shaft 41 disposed in the rear of and alined with the shaft 23. As shown in Fig. 7 the forward end of the shaft 41 is journaled in roller bearings 42, while the rear end of this shaft is journaled in ball bearings 43. Herein preferably formed integral with the shaft 41 intermediate its ends is a worm 44 which meshes with a worm gear 45 keyed at 46 to a horizontal shaft 47 extending transversely of the machine and journaled in ball bearings 48 disposed at each side of the gear 45 and suitably carried within the feed frame section 9. The shaft 47 is adapted to independently or simultaneously drive the tracklaying treads 2 as Will later be described. It will thus be noted that the rotation of the armature shaft 12 may be transmitted through the improved fast speed mechanism to the shaft 47 to drive the latter at a predetermined high or fast speed Whenever the clutch controlling member 33 is operated to engage the clutch plates 26, 27. It will further be evident that such speed may be lowered at Will by slipping the friction plates 26, 27.

Referring now specifically to the slow or cutting feed, it will herein be observed that when the clutch controlling member is inoperative and the clutch is released power ma still be transmitted through the interloc ing member 30 to the pinion 31 Which is freely rotatable on the shaft 23. This pinion in turn meshes with a spur gear 49 disposed coaxially with the gears 14 and 35 heretofore described and this gear 49 has secured thereto and rotatable therewith a spur pinion 50 which meshes with a spur gear 51 keyed at 52 to the hub of a spur pinion 53 rotatably' mounted on the shaft 23. The pinion 53 meshes with a spur gear 54 alined with the gear 49 and this gear has secured thereto and rotatable therewith a spur pinion 55 which meshes with an internal gear 56 disposed coaXially with and rotatable on the shaft As illustrated the internal gear 56 also houses a friction clutch substantially similar to the clutch heretofore described in connection with the clutch plates 26, 27 and this clutch includes interleaved clutch plates 57 and 58, certain of which are carried by a clutch member 59 keyed at 60 to the shaft 23, while other discs are carried by a sleeve formed integral with the internal gear 56. Moreover, a clutch retaining member 61 is provided suitably secured at 62 to the hub of the spur pinion 34 and this retaining member 61 maintains the clutch plates 57, 58 in proper position. lt will herein be noted that this retaining member 61 is similar to ,the member 30, but in this instance has no interlocking function and only a clutch plate retaining member. A cylindrical clutch operating member 63 surrounds the hub of the member 61 and is provided with longitudinally extending fingers 64 which engage the end plate of the friction plates 57, 58. As a result of this mechanism above described, although the clutch 26, 27 is disconnected, rotation may be constantly imparted through this slow feed mechanism so that when the clutch 57, 58 is connected the shaft 47 will be rotated at a slow or cutting speed in the opposite direction from the high or fast speed. Herein it will also be evident that by slipping the friction plates 57, 58 this slow speed may also be reduced when desired. Suitable operating mechanism is provided for thev clutch actuating members 33 and 63 and this mechanism includes an operating member or handle 65 conveniently located at the rear end of the machine frame (see Fig. 1). Through suitable manipulation of this handle 65 the fast and slow speed clutches may be selectively applied, this clutch operating mechanism including roller equipped shipper members 66 and 67 pivoted within the machine frame at 68 and respectively engaging the members 63 and 33. Any suitable mechanism may be employed between the handle 65 and the clutch shipper members 66 and 67 but preferred devices are disclosed in my copending 'applications Ser. No. 619,839, filed Feb. 19, 1923, and Ser. No. 705,089, filed April 8, 1924, now matured into Patents Nos. 1,670,155 and 1,647,118, respectively.

The improved transmission connections between the shaft 47 and the tracklaying treads 2 specifically comprise friction clutch devices generally indicated 69 and 70 and respectively operatively connected to the opposite ends of the shaft 47 and this shaft is adapted to drive through these clutch devices the shafts 71 and 72 respectively, these shafts being arranged coaxially with the shaft 47 and journaled within roller bearings 72L suitably carried by the machine frame. interposed between the ends of the shaft 47 and the shafts 71 and 72 respectively are bearing sleeves 73. As clearly shown in Fig. 3, keyed at 74 to the outer end of each of the shafts 71, 72 is a sprocket 75 and these sprockets cooperate with and drive the tracklaying treads 2. Referring to Fig. 2 it will be noted that the frame 1 is supported on the tracklaying treads 2 by means of frame members 76 secured to the opposite sides of the machine frame and carrying bearin g rollers 77 which engage the chains 78 of the tracklaying treads, these tread chains passing around thc drive sprockets 75 and around idler sprockets 7 9 rotatably mounted at 80 on thc sides of the machine frame 1. Again referring to Fig. 3, it will be noted that the clutch device.; 69 and 70 are identical in structure and each comprises a clutch member 81 keyed at 82 to one end of the shaft 47, and this clutch member carries a series of clutch plates 83 which are interleaved with a series of clutch plates 84 carried by a drum member 85 keyed at 86 to the inner end of one of the shafts 71, 72. Encircling the hub portion of the drum 85 is a clutch applying` member 87 having projecting lingers 87 which engage the end plate of the series of clutch plates 83, 84. Engageable with the clutch applying member 87 is a clutch shipper yoke 88 pivoted at 89 on the machine frame. The shipper yokes 88 are respectively provided with operating levers 90 and 90, these levers each projecting upwardly through an opening 91 formed in the frame. A suitable ratchet or other locking device 91EL is provided for maintaining the levers 90 and 902L in their different adjusted positions. From the foregoing it will be obvious that when the clutch devices 6i) and 70 are both applied the tracklaying treads 2 may be driven in one direction at a slow speed and in the opposite direction at a high speed through the improved fast and slow speed transmission mechanism heretofore described. It will also be observed that the treads 2 may be independently controlled by the clutch devices 69 and 70 in such manner as to enable the machine to be turned around in one direction or the other. To facilitate turning movement of the machine, brake bands 92 and 93 are provided for holding the drums 85 of each of the clutch devices 69 and 70 against rotation, thereby enabling the operator to hold one of the treads against movement while the other tread is actuated to turn the machine. Each of the brake bands 92 and 93 comprises, as shown in Fig. 6, a band 94 encircling the drum 85 and held against movement by means of a lug 95 projecting within a recess 96 formed in the lower portion of the machine frame. The ends of each of the brake bands have secured thereto nut members 97 and 98 having formed therein right and left hand threads respectively cooperating with right and left hand threads formed on a rotatable operating rod 99 extending longitudinally of the machine. r1`he rods 99 have respectively secured thereto at their outer ends operating handles 100 and 101 conveniently located at the rear end of the machine frame. It will be evident that upon rotation of the rods 99 in one direction the nuts 97 and 98 are drawn together, consequently applying the brakes and frictionally retarding movement of the brake drums It will herein be noted that located adjacent the feed controlling handle is a handle 102 which is adapted to control the driving motor 11.

The cutting and conveying mechanisms are also adapted to be driven from the motor 11. First referring to the driving connections for the cutting mechanisms it will be observed that secured at 103 Fig. 4) to the forward end of the armature shaft 12 is a spur gear 104 which is adapted to be connected by means of an internal gear clutch member 105 to a spur gear 106 alined therewith. The clutch member 105 may be reciproeated through any suitable connections including an operating lever 105a carried at the top of the machine frame (see Figs. 1 and 2). The spur gear 106 is keyed at 107 to a shaft 108 disposed in front of and alined with the armature 12 and this shaft 108 is journaled in ball bearings 109 and 110 carried within the gear 104 and frame section 10, respectively. The shaft 108 has preferably formed integral therewith at its forward end a bevel pinion 111 which meshes with a bevel gear 112 herein preferably formed integral with a vertically disposed shaft 113 rotatably mounted in spaced alined ball bearings 114 carried by the frame section 10. The bevel gear 112 has rotatable therewith a spur pinion 115 which meshes with a larger spur orear 116 keyed at 117 to a vertically disposed shaft 118. The shaft 118 is journaled in ball bearings 119 carried by the machine frame and has secured thereto at the lower end thereof at 120 a driving sprocket 121 which is adapted to circulate the cutter chain 5 about the edges of the cutt-er bar 4. As shown in Fig. 4 the cutter bar 4 has formed thereon at the machine end thereof a hub 122 which encircles a hub portion 123 herein preferably formed integral with the frame section 10 and which supports the bearings for the lower end of the shaft 118. The hub 122 on the cutter bar is provided with a radial flange 124 which is secured by screws 125 to an annular thrust ring 126 rotatably mounted within an annular groove 127 formed in the machine frame. The cutter bar is adapted to swing about its aXis 3 while supported on the thrust ring 126 and guide 127. Furthermore, the cutter bar 4 is adapted to be locked at right angles to the longitudinal aXis of the machine frame as shown in Fig. 1 or in longitudinal alinement with the machine frame as indicated by dotted lines in Fig. 2 by suitable locking means including a locking pin 128 which is adapted to cooperate with lookin g recesses or notches 129 formed on a radial flange 130 carried by the frame section 10. The cutter bar is also provided with an overhanging lip portion 131 which engages the upper surface of the flange 130 for further guiding the cutter bar. The cutter bar is adapted to be swung into its lateral or longitudinal position with respect to the machine frame manually by the operator, a bar, lever or other suitable device being utilized to swing the cutter bar about its pivot. Also formed on the cutter bar 4 is a vertically disposed arcuate guide member 127a which is adapted to engage the face of the coal to prev-ent the cutter bar from moving too far beneath the coal face. From the foregoing description it will be obvious that when the motor running and the clutch member 105 is connected to the gears 104, 106 the cutter chain is adapted to be circulated about the edges of the cutter bar.

The improved conveying mechanism comprises a worm 132 lined to the upper end of the verti 'al shaft 118 and this worm meshes with a worin gear 133 keyed at 134 to a horizontal shaft 135 extending transversely ofthe machine and suitably journaled in hearings 130 carried by a stationary portion 137 ofthe conveyor frame. As shown in Fig. 1 the shaft 135 has keyed thereto drive sprockets 1538 which cooperate with side chains 133i) of endless conveyors 140, these conveyors being rotatably mounted on a pivoted boom or slide 141 of the conveyor mechanism. 'ihe boom 141 is pivoted on the horizontal axis at 142 on the stationary portion 137 of the conveyor frame for movement in the vertical plane for a purpose to be later described. rlhe conveyors 140 include transverse scraper menibers 143 which are adapted to engage the coal to move the same rearwardly along a transverse bottom plate 144 carried by the boom 141. The lower forward end of the boom is provided with a flat bottom surface 145 which engages the mine bottoni during the loading operation and the forward end of this boom is provided with a wedge-shaped shovel portion 140 having a trai'isverse niaterialpenetratingedge 147. A central wedgeshaped abutment 148 having a vertically disposed edge is disposed intermediate the conveyor chains 139 to divert the material to be loaded thereon. As shown in Fig. 1 pivotally mounted at 149 on each side of the boom 141 is an adjustable Wing 150, the Wings 150 respectively engaging the vertical face 151 of the coal and the inner vertical side 152 of a usual face conveyor 153 disposed parallel with the face, the wings being adjustable to compensate for the varying width of the space between the coal face and the face conveyor. The wings 150 also direct the material to be loaded onto the conveyors. The conveyors 140 are adapted to discharge the coal therefrom into the laterally projecting inclined chute 7 which is adapted to discharge the coal by gravity onto the face conveyor 153, the chute 7 having vertically disposed rear walls 154 and 155 for retaining the coal wit-hin the chute as it is thrown thereon by the conveyors 140. From the foregoing description it will be obvious that when the clutch member 105 and the gears 104, 106 are connected and when the motor is running the conveyor chains 140 may be actuated to move the coal penetrated by the shovel portion 140 rearwardly onto the inclined chute 7. It will also be obvious that as the conveyors 140 are actuated the cutter chain 5 is simultaneously actuated.

The operation of the improved mining apparatus will be clearly apparent from the description given. When the mining apparatus is being moved about the mine the loading boom or slide 141 is lifted vertically about its pivot 142 and the cutter bar is then swung from the full line position shown in Fig. 1 into longitudinal alinement with the machine frame as indicated by dotted lines in Fig. 2. The loading boom 141 is then lowered into engagement with the cutter bar and is supported thereon during the transporting of the machine from place to place. The mining apparatus is moved about the mine at a high speed under the control of the fast feed friction clutch 26, 27 and is propelled by the tracklaying treads 2, the cutting and conveying mechanisms being disconnected from the motor at that time. The mining apparatus may be turned in one direction or the other, for instance when angling the machine in the entry or when moving from the main entry into a room, under the control of the brake bands 92 and 93 and the friction clutch devices 69 and 70. When the working face is reached the feeding mechanism is disconnected from the motor and the cutter bar is manually swung laterally from beneath the loading boom to the full line position shown in Fig. 1 at right angles to the length of the machine frame and is locked in this position by the pin 128, the loading boom 141 then being lowered with its bottom surface 145 engaging the mine bottom. The motor is then reversed, the

slow feed clutch 57, 58 is applied and the brake bands 92 and 93 and the clutch devices 69 and 7() are then suitably actuated and upon rotation of the driving motor 11 the machine, which is in the entry, is turned until the cutter bar is substantially perpendicular to the face and the cutter is then sumped beneath the coal face at a cutting speed under control of clutch 57, 58. However, if desired the cutter bar may be swung or slued beneath the coal at a cutting speed under the control of the tracklaying treads 2, one of the treads being held against movement while the other is rotated to effect such swinging movement. After the sumping operation, the machine is fed longitudinally of the face at a cutting speed by the treads 2 under the control of clutch 57, 58, and as the cutter bar undercuts the coal the coal previously undercut and shot down at the face is penetrated by the shovel portion 146 on the loading boom and consequently the loose coal is moved rearwardly by the conveyors 14() onto the inclined chute 7 and hence laterally to the face conveyor 153 which moves the coal from the face to a usual entry conveyor. It is obvious that as the shovel member 146 penetrates the loose coa-l the win gs 150 are swung outwardly into engagement with the coal face and the vertical side 152 of the face conveyor. If desired the machine may be fed rearwardly at a fast speed under control of clutch 26, 27. During the undercutting operation the angle of the i cutter bar relative to the face may be controlled by suitably controlling movement of the tracklaying treads 2 in an obvious manner. Furthermore, if desired the cutter bar may be swung to the opposite side of the machine from that shown in Fig. 1 and upon reversal ot the motor and the turning of the cutter bits in the cutter chain the machine may cut in the opposite direction. However, during this latter operation no loading function is possible, the machine cutting and loading simultaneously only in one direction. Other operations of the improved mining apparatus wili be clearly apparent to those skilled in this art.

As a result of this invention an improved mining apparatus is provided which is adapted to simultaneously undercut and load the coal in accordance with the long- Wall system of mining. Furthermore, it will be noted that an improved combined cutting and loading machine is provided which is of au exceedingly rugged and compact character especially adapted to withstand the severe service conditions encountered in coal mines. it wil?` Vfurther be noted that an improved mining machine is provided having improved feeding means therefor, the machine being fed and mounted by means of endless tracklaying treads.

Win I have in this application specifically described one form which my invention may assume in practice it will be understood that this form is shown for purposes of illustration and that the invention may be modified and embodied in various other forms without departing from its spirit or the scope of the appended claims.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a -substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, and materia-l gathering means offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and supported on said frame and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said cutter bar and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances.

2. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, and material gathering means offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and supported on said frame and including a conveyor boom extending in advance of said cutter bar, said cutter bar and said material gathering means engaging material along laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances.

8. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a latL erally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, material gathering means supported on said frame and including a swingable conveyor boom extending in advance of said cutter bar in horizontally olfL set relation with respect thereto and having material penetrating means thereon, Iand means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loading operation bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

4. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, material gathering means supported on said frame and including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and extending in advance of said cutter bar in horizontally offset relation with respect thereto, and means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loading operation bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

5. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a. laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a sub stantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, material gathering means supported on Said frame and including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and extending in advance of said cutter bar in horizontally offset relation With respect th creto, and means cooperating With said nose piece for directing the material to be loaded thereon, and means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loading operation bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel With the coal face.

6. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar projecting from the side of said frame at the front end thereof, and material gathering means supported on said frame and extending in advance of said cutter bar and having a material engaging edge arranged co-extensive With said frame and offset horizontally from the cutting portion ot said bar.

7. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar projecting from the side of said frame at the front end thereof, and material gathering means supported on said frame and extending forwardly in advance of said cutter bar and rearwardly of said cutter bar and having a material engaging edge arranged coextensive with said frame and oifset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar.

8. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a svvingable cutter bar adapted to cut a kert in the coal face, material gathering means disposed Wholly outside the coal face and supported on said frame and including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and extending in advance of said cutter bar in horizontally offset relation with respect thereto, and means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loadingr operation bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

9. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a swingable cutter bar adapted to cut kert in the coal face, material gathering means disposed Wholly outside of the coal face and supported on said trame and including a pivoted conveyor boom extending in advance ot said cutter bar in horizontally offset relation With respect thereto, and means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loading operation bodily along the coal tace in a direction parallel With the coal face.

10. In a mining apparatus, a machine trame. cutting mechanism thereon including a swingable cutter bar, and material gathering means supported on said frame and including a pivoted conveyor boom extending in advance of said cuter bar, said conveyor boom being adjustable in a vertical direction to permit said cutter bar to swing laterally beneath the same.

11. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane and disposable at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame during cutting, and material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

12. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar sWingable in a horizontal plane and disposable at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame during cutting, and material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and including a conveyor boom adjustable in a vertical direction and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

13. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, and material gathering means supported on said frame and including a conveyor boom adjustable in a vertical direction and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said conveyor boom being adjustable in a vertical direction to permit said cutter bar to swing laterally beneath the same.

14. In a mining apparatus, a machine trame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, and material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and having its forward end engaging the mine bottom in advance of said cutter bar, said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face. I

15. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, and material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said har and including a pivoted conveyor boom extending in advance of said cutter bar, and means on said boom for directing the material to be loaded thereon, said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

16. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar, and material gathering means supported on said frame and including a pivoted conveyor boom extending in advance of said cutter bar, and pivoted Wings on said boom for directing the material to be loaded thereon.

17. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projectingr cutter bar, and material gathering means supported on said frame and including a pivoted conveyor boom extending in advance of said cutter bar, and pivoted Wings on said boom at the opposite sides thereof for directing the material to be loaded thereon.

18. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, and material gathering means supported on said frame and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said gathering means including an ele-ment adjustable in a vertical direction, said cutter bar being swingable beneath said element When the latter is in an elevated position.

19. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, and material gathering means supported on said frame and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said gathering means including an element adjustable in a vertical direction, said cutter bar being swingable beneath said element when the latter is in an elevated position and is adapted to support the same.

20. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, and material gathering means supported on said frame and including a pivoted conveyor boom extending in advance of said cutter bar, said cutter bar being sWingable beneath said boom to support the latter.

21. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, a motor carried thereby, feeding means for the machine driven from one end of said motor, cutting mechanism on said frame having a cutting portion projecting beneath the coal face, material gathering means on said frame and disposed outside the coal face in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said frame, and means for driving said cutting mechanism and .said material gathering means from the opposite end of said motor, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths.

22. I frame, a motor carried thereby, feeding means for the machine, cutting mechanism on said frame including a swingable cutter bar disposable beneath the coal face, material gathering means on said frame and disposed outside the coal face in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar, means` for driving said feeding mechanism from one end of said motor, and means for driving said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means from the opposite end of said motor, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances.

23. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, a motor carried thereby, feeding means for the machine, cutting mechanism on the forward end of said frame including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, material gathering means on said frame extending in advance of the bar pivot and in cluding an endless conveyor, means for driving said feeding means from one end of said motor, and means for driving said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means from the opposite end of said motor.

211. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath the coal face, and material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally from said cutting portion including means for conveying material to be loaded longitudinally thereof and discharging laterally thereof` said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances.

25. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath the coal face, material gathering means supported on said frame outside of the coal face in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutting mechanism including means for conveying material to be loaded longitudinally thereof. and means for conducting the material brought back by said gathering means laterally of the machine frame, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths.

26. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, and material gathern a mining apparatus, a machine4 ing means supported on said frame in a position oll'set horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and extending in advance of said cutter bar for moving the material to be loaded longitudinally of said frame, said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

27. In a mining apparatus, a machine trame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar projecting beneath the coal face at the base or" the mine Wall, material gathering means supported on said frame and disposed outside the coal face in a. position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and extending in advance of said cutter bar for moving the material to be loaded longitudinally of said trame, means for receiving the material brought back by said gathering means and conducting the same laterally of the machine frame, said cutter bar and said material gathering means engaging material along laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as thc apparatus advances bodily along the coal face, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily laterally along the coal face in a direction parallel With the coal face.

28. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath the coal face at the base of the mine Wall, material gathering means supported on said frame outside the coal face in a position off'set horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutting mechanism and extending in advance of said cutting mechanism and including conveying means for moving the material longitudinally of the machine frame, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

29. ln a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath the coal face at the base of the mine Wall`r material gathering means supported on said frame and disposed outside the coal face in a position offset horizontally from said cutting portion and extending in advance of said cutting mechanism and including conveying means for moving the material longitudinall ot the machine frame, an inclined chute or receiving the material brought back by said conveying means and conducting the same laterally of the machine trame` said cutter bar and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

30. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, and material gathering` means supported on said frame outside the coal tace in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutting mechanism and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said gathering means including coi'ivejf'ing means for moving the material to be loaded longitudinally of the machine frame and said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

3l. ln a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis ot said frame, material gathering means supported on said frame outside the coal tace in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutting mechanism and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said gathering means including conveying means for moving the material to be loaded longitudinally of the machine frame, and means for conducting the material brought back by said conveying meansI laterally of the machine frame, said cutter bar and said material gathering means simultaneously engaging material along parallel laterali;v adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

32. ln a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including .a laterally projecting cutter bar disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame, material gathering means` supported on said frame outside the coal face in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion oi said cutting mechanie-'m and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said gathering means including conveying` means for moving the material to be loaded longitudinally of' the machine frame, and an inclined chute for conducting the material brought back oy said conveying means laterally ot the machine frame` said cutter bar and said mat: iai gathering means simultaneously exrgaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances bodily along the coal face.

33. ln a mining apparatus, a machine frame, a motor carried thereby, cutting mechanism on said frame including a cutter bar projecting beneath the coal face, material Cil gathering means supported on the forward end of said frame outside the coal face in a position oliset horizontally from the cutting portion of said bar and extending above said `cutter bar, and mechanism driven by said motor actuating said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means, said cutter bar and said material gathering means engaging material in horizontal planes adjacent the mine bottoni and along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances.

34. ln a mining apparatus, a machine frame, motor carried thereby. cutting mechanism including afcutter bar pivotally mounted on the forward end of said frame, material gathering supported on the forward end of said frame and extending above said cutter bar in advance of the bar pivot, and mechanism driven by said moto-r Jfor actuating said lcutting mechanism and said material gathering means.

35. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism carried thereby,

' material Igathering means supported on said frame .and including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and engageabfle with the mine bottom during the loading operation, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths, and means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loading operation bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

36. In a apparatus, a machine trame, cutting mechanism carried thereby, material ,gathering means supported on said trame and including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and engageable With the mine bottom during the loading operation and having a transverse material ypenetrating edge, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths, and means for propelling the apparatus during the cutting and loading operation bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

37. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism carried thereby, and material gathering means supported on said frame and .including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and engageable with the mine bottom during the loading operation, and adjustable means carried by said nose piece for directing the material to be loaded thereon.

38. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, and .material gathering ymeans supported on said trame and including a nose piece disposd in advance oi said cutter bar and engageable with the mine bottom during the loading operation, said nose piece being ad justable in a vertical direction to permit said cutter bar to ,swing laterally beneath the same.

39. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar swingable in a horizontal plane, and material gathering means supported on said frame including a nose piece adjustable in a vertical direction and disposed in advance of said cutter bar and engageable with the mine bottom during the loading operation, said cutter bar being swingable beneath said nose piece to support the latter.

40. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar projecting laterally beneath the coal face during the cutting operation, `and material gathering means supported on said frame and extending in advance of said cutter bar, said material gathering means including an adjustable element engaging the coal face during the loading operation` 41. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, a motor carried thereby, cutting mechanism on said frame including a pivoted cutter bar, material gathering means supported on the forward end of said frame extending in advance ost the bar pivot .and conveying means, mechanism driven byy motor for actuating said cutting mechanism, `and mechanism for actuating said material gathering means including a transmission element disposed coaxially With the bam pivot.

4-2.A In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, ka motor .carried thereby, cutting mechanism on said trame including a pifvotedfcutter bar, material gathering means sup yorted on the forward end of said frame exten 'ng-in advance of the bar pivot land including conveying means, and mechanism driven byssaid motor for actuating said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means including a transmission element disposed coaxially with the bar pivot.

43. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism :thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath the .coal face at the base of the mine Wall, material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally 'from the icutting portion oit said cutting `mechanism and exit-'ending in advance of said cutting mechanism, said material gathering means including parallel endless conveyors, said cutting mechanism and said `material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances, and means tor propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

44. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath `the .coal

face at the base of the mine wall, material gathering means supported on said frame in a. position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutting mechanism and extending in advance of said cutting mechanism, said material gathering means including parallel endless conveyors, means for directing the material to be loaded ont-o said Conveyors, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

45. In a` mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon having a cutting portion projecting beneath the coal face at the base of the mine wall, material gathering means supported on said frame in a position offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutting mechanism` said material gathering means including parallel endless conveyors, means on said frame for receiving the material brought back by said conveyors and for conducting the same laterally of the machine frame, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel With the coal face.

46. In a mining apparatus, a` machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar projecting laterally from said frame at one side thereof and extending beneath the coal face at the base of the mine Wall, material gathering means supported on said frame Wholly outside of the coal face and including means for conducting material laterally of the machine frame and extending from said frame at the side thereof opposite from said cutter bar, said cutting mechanism and said material gathering means engaging material in horizontal planes adjacent the mine bottom and along parallel laterally adjacent paths, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

47. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar projecting laterally from said frame at one side thereof and extending beneath the coal face at the base of the mine erally adjacent paths, and means for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face in a direction parallel with the coal face.

48. In a mining apparatus, the combination with kerf cutting mechanism, of feeding mechanism including traction members for supporting and propelling the apparatus and motor operated driving means for said traction members for independently or simultaneously actuating the same at different speeds including a common speed change mechanism and cooperating clutch and brake devices individual to the driving connections for each traction member.

49. In a mining apparatus, the combination with kerf cutting mechanism, of feeding mechanism including traction members for supporting and propelling the apparatus and motor operated driving means for said traction members for independently or simultaneously actuating the same at different spe-eds including a frictionally controlled speed change mechanism common to the drive of both traction members and a friction clutch device for individually controlling each traction member, and a brake cooperating with each of said clutch devices.

50. In a mining apparatus, the combination with kerf cutting mechanism, of feeding mechanism including traction members for supporting and propelling the apparatus and motor operated driving means for said traction members for independently or simultaneously actuating the same at different speeds including a fast and slow speed transmission means and worm gearing driven thereby, a clutch device between said gearing and each of said traction members, and means for braking said traction members when disconnected from said gearing by said clutch devices.

5l. In a mining apparatus, the combination with kerf cutting mechanism, of feeding mechanism including traction members for supporting and propelling the apparatus and motor operated driving means for said traction members for independently or simultaneously actuating the same at different speeds including a fast and slow speed transmission means and worm gearing driven thereby, and clutch and brake devices between said gearing and each of said traction members.

52. In a mining apparatus, the combination with kerf cutting mechanism, of feeding mechanism including traction members for supporting and propelling the apparatus and motor operated driving means for said traction members for independently or simultaneously actuating the same at different speeds including fast and slow speed transmission means and a horizontally disposed worm driven thereby and extending longitudinally of the apparatus, a worm gear meshing with said worm and disposed on a horizontal axis, a clutch device between said With said; i,iorni and disposed onv a Horizontal axis, clutcliand vloralief-c lleyiyces between Said worm' members.

54, In amini no apparatus, aportable support,,cuttingfniedhanisinthereon including aV cutte'rhar disposable laterally .olfs'ai'd support duringthe jcutting operation, material gathering meansrsiippoifted onsaid fr ai'n'e includ adyance of saidccutterhar longitudinally and laterally ofsaid support to discharge at the Y side thereof` opposite freni said cutter' bar, said cutting portion, oi said har and said inaterial gathering ineai s1 engaging' material along parallel llaterally adjacent paths and .each operativetofclearitspath as the appa- ,ratusiadvancea and means for propelling the i. appaiatusdu ring the cutting and loading op- 57. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism 'carried-thereby havin g a cutting port-ionextenc'ling from the 'side of the frame at the front end thereof and extending laterally beneath the baseof the mine wall', and material gathering means on said frame disposed Wl'iolly outside-ofthe coal face and having a material engaging 'portion arranged :in a position' otisetffhori- Vzontaliy from the-said cutting portidn'aiid 1fly of the apparatus, a Worin gear 'meshing "coal face. i

saidV material engaging and cutting portionsI arranged vat horizontal'planes adjacent' fthe mine bottorm' said' cuttingportion* cutting Iand clearing its path' and said gathering means engaging the material'along a path parallel to and laterally?adjacentsaid' path a'sj tli'e apparatus' advances' bodilyl along the '58, In a mining apparatus, a machine trarne, cutting mechanism' carried 'thereby including a 'pivot-ed` cutter bar swin'gable? tdi positions at either'side f 'sai'd"franie and 25 ing mechanism foimoving the material in" ing means on said frame, said 'cutter'fbar and said material gathering?:mensengaging material' in substantiallyfthe 'same h'oriff Zontal plane along 'parallelv laterallfyadjacent 'paths during operation of the' apparatusand each operative to clearits p-atha's the-'apparatus'advances. if "I 59. InV a mining apparatus, a machine traine, cutting mechanism Athereon?including afsivin'gable `cutter bar, and material'- ather- 'in'gfmeans on saidffraine having' ai s wingable 35 eration li'ofdilyl along the coal face in a direc 100 .,tion parallel Withthevcoal face.

55. In a 'mining apparatus, a -machine ,fiaine,.cut t ing mechanism` thereon including alaterally;projecting'@Litter bar disposed at 40 asubstantially' rightangle to thelo'ngitudi--4 1,. nal. airis of said frame and extending laterali' aswingalile cutter bar, andmaterial gather-f' ly beneath thefhfase of vthe mine Wall, and `'ing means having Va swing'ablelnat'erial"en- `material gatherin-'rineans on said frame dis-""gagiiig portion, said Lsivi'ngable portion of posed Whollyfoutsidethef coalface 'in a posiV .said `gatheringx i'r'iieansbeing adjustable' to 45 tion offset horizontally from thecutting'poryperinitf' said'cu'tter' barto'swingiaterally'be- ,tion of saidwciitterba said cutter bar and iieatli lthesame'to 'support saidf 'sit'in'gable said gathering means engaging material in portion during transport.'

horizontal -planes.adjacent the mine'bottoiri` i, 6l. In a 'mining apparatus. a machine and along paralled laterally adjacent paths franie, kerf cut-'ting mechanism thereon' in- 5U parallel with the lcoal face.Y f cl'uding a laterally projecting horizontal-'cnt m'. An a mining apparatus, amachin'ie `ltei' har disposed at" als'ubstaritially right anframe, cuttingmeclianisn'i thereon including: gle'to the longitudinal airis of said' fname, alaterallyprojecting cutter bar disposed at material gathering 'means' si'ippofjtedonfsaid Ca.substaiitially 4rightn angle to the longitudiffframe and including-'a'hori'zont'al"material 'engaging portion disposed"attliefadvancing .05 nal axis of said 'franieand extending beneath 4 the coal tac-e in substantially the piane of the` 'end `of said trarne 'said material 'engaging "material engaging portion, said" 'swingable lportieri ofsaid gatheriiigmeans being vadir-iste* 'able to permit saitlutter-'bar' to swing-:late ,rally beneaththe same. :Y A 1 'l fifi' "'60.A In a mining apparatus, a machine frame, cutting mechanism thereon'i'nclu'din 105 tu of saidcutter bar, said cutter har ands gatheringineans engaging material in horitv ratus advances.

4niine fioosigand inaterialigiathering means on" saidframe outside lthe coal face in a position otl'set horizontally from the Acutting portion aidl zontal planes-adjacent thefniin'e bottom and a.longparallel laterally adjacent pathsa-nd" eachop'erative to 'clear its path as the appa-A 'ahle' endwise alongthe Workingfface, ke

cutting mechanism thereon including a horizontal plane cutter bar projecting laterally from said frame at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said frame and arranged to cut a kerf at substantially the plane of the mine bottom, and material gathering and conveying means on said frame including a material engaging portion extending transversely of the advancing end of the machine in substantially the plane of the mine bottom, the cutting portion of said bar and said material engaging portion being offset horizontally and adapted to simultaneously cut and load the material as the machine advances along the Working face.

63. In a mining apparatus, a portable body, cutting mechanism thereon including an elongated plane cutter bar pivotally mounted on said body and svvingable horizontally to either side thereof in positions at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of said body, and material gathering and conveying c means on said body including a material engagmg portion extending transversely across the advancing side of said body and in substantially the same horizontal plane as the cutting portion of said bar, said cutter bar and material gathering means simultaneously cutting and loading the material as the machine advances along the working face.

64. In a mining apparatus, a longwall mining machine having feeding and cutting mechanisms, said cutting mechanism includ ing a horizontally sWingable cutter bar disposable laterally at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of the machine during cutting, and material gathering and conveying means mounted on said machine and including a horizontal material engaging portion extending transversely across the advancing end of the machine and in substantially the same horizontal plane as the cutting portion of said bar, said cutter bar and material engaging means simultaneously cutting and loading the material as the machine advances along the Working face.

65. In a mining apparatus, a machine frame,'kerf cutting mechanism thereon including a horizontal kerf cutting device adapted to cut the material at substantially the. plane of the mine bottom, and material gathering means on said frame including a horizontal material engaging portion disposed transversely across the advancing side of the machine and operative to first convey the material longitudinally and then transversely, said material engaging portion and the cutting portion of the device simultaneously engaging the material along laterally adjacent paths as the machine advances along the Working face.

66. In a mining and loading apparatus, a portable base, cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar having a cutting portion projecting laterally from said base and adapted to cut a horizontal kerf at the base of the mine Wall, material gathering means on said base and including a material engaging portion disposed adjacent said mine floor and offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutter bar, said cutter bar and said material engaging portion engaging material along parallel laterally adjacent paths and each operative to clear its path as the apparatus advances along the coal face, and mechanism for propelling the apparatus bodily along the coal face to effect simultaneously its cutting and loading operations.

67. In a mining and loading apparatus, a portable base, kerf cutting mechanism thereon including a cutter bar having its cutting portion projecting laterally at one side of said base, material gathering means on said base including a material engaging portion arranged at or near the mine floor co-extensive with said base and offset horizontally from the cutting portion of said cutter bar, and means for propelling said apparatus bodily along the coal face to effect simultaneously its kerf cutting and loading operations, said apparatus moving along a path parallel with the coal face and said material engaging means clearing a path for the base as the apparatus advances.

68. In a mining and loading apparatus, the combination with a face conveyor arranged parallel. with the coal face, of material gathering mechanism comprising conveying means and cooperating means guided by the parallel surfaces of the coa-l face and face conveyor for directing the material onto said conveying means.

69. In a mining and loading apparatus, the combination with a face conveyor arranged parallel with the coal face, of material gathering mechanism comprising conveying means and cooperating means guided by the parallel surfaces of the coal face and face conveyor for directing the material onto said conveying means, said cooperating means comprising adjustable elements for automatically compensating for the variation in Width of the space between the coal face and the face conveyor.

70. In a mining and loading apparatus, the combination With a face conveyor arranged parallel with the coal face, of material gathering mechanism comprising conveying means and cooperating means guided by the parallel surfaces of the coal face and face conveyor for directing the material onto said conveying means, said cooperating means comprising adjustable elements for automatically compensating for the variation in Width of the space between the coal face and the face conveyor, and normally held, upon engagement with the material, in engagement with the coal face and face conveyor by the material engaged and directed thereby.

7l. In a mining and loading apparatus, the

Cil

combination With a face conveyor arranged parallel with the coal face, of kerf cutting mechanism including a kerf cutter projecting laterally beneath the coal face to cut a hori- Zontal kerf thereunder, and conveying means extending between the coal face and face conveyor for gathering and elevating the material and moving the material in a direction parallel With the coal face, and coo erating means arranged at the discharge si e of the conveying means for receiving the material discharged by the conveying means and conducting the material laterally to discharge on said face conveyor.

In testimony whereof I ailix my signature.

MORRIS P. HOLMES.

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