AU2019236704B2 - Conveyor skirt liner system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to materials handling and, in particular, an assembly for a skirt liner adapted for retaining materials on conveyor belts. In one aspect, a skirt liner system for a materials transfer structure is disclosed comprising a plurality of main frames mounted to a mounting flange of the materials transfer structure where each main frame comprises a skirt liner carrier adapted for supporting a skirt liner upon a first face of the skirt liner carrier and a skirt liner retainer upon a second face of the skirt liner carrier for retaining the skirt liner upon the first face of the skirt liner carrier; wherein the skirt liner carrier is attached for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame. Figure 12 11/16 2 20 34 2 (2 2 14 20 4 2 14 2 Fgr

Description

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Conveyer Skirt Liner System

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2013902099 in the name of Bradken Resources Pty Ltd, which was filed on 11 June 2013, entitled "Conveyer Skirt Liner System" and, Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2014900353 in the name of Bradken Resources Pty Ltd, which was filed on 6 February 2014, entitled "Conveyer Skirt Liner System" and the specifications thereof are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes.

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of materials handling. In one form the invention relates to an assembly for a skirt liner adapted for retaining materials on conveyor belts. It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in relation to a skirt liner used for retaining materials such as iron ore, coal, gravel, sand etcetera on a conveyor belt system and to seal against the loss or escape of these materials from the conveyor, however it should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that use, only.

BACKGROUNDART

[0003] Throughout this specification the use of the word "inventor" in singular form may be taken as reference to one (singular) inventor or more than one (plural) inventor of the present invention.

[0004] It is to be appreciated that any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the present invention. Further, the discussion throughout this specification comes about due to the realisation of the inventor and/or the identification of certain related art problems by the inventor. Moreover, any discussion of material such as documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention in terms of the inventor's knowledge and experience and, accordingly, any such discussion should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia, or elsewhere, on or before the priority date of the disclosure and claims herein.

[0005] The purpose of conveyor skirt systems is to assist in centrally loading conveyed material on the conveyor belt, contain spillage, and control dust at the transfer of material. For these purposes, a conveyor skirt system may comprise skirt panels, skirt liners or wear plates and a dust seal between the conveyor and the skirt panels.

[0006] In retaining materials centrally on a conveyor belt, the skirts used in materials handling systems are subject to abrasive action by the passing materials. Accordingly, the skirts are lined with abrasion and wear resistant materials such as rubber, ceramics, white iron or hardened steel for example. However, the wear plates or liners that protect the skirts eventually wear out. Moreover, the skirts and/or skirt liners require replacement and/or adjustment periodically over time.

[0007] Maintenance of conveyor skirt systems typically involves the following: • Gaining access to the inside of the transfer structure which is a confined space. • Inspecting the condition of the sacrifical liners for wear, and gap between the liner and the conveyor belt. • If the liner is excessiviely worn it needs replacing. • If it has worn to a point where the gap between the liner and conveyor belt is out of specification, it needs to be adjusted so as the gap is acceptable again. • Inspecting the condition of the dust seal, if it has worn out, it needs to be replaced.

[0008] Typical designs have a fixed frame fixed to the main transfer structure. Sacrificial wear liners are affixed to this frame on the inside of the transfer chute and fastened to the frame on the outside, to protect the frame/structure from wear, and a sealing section that entrains the dust within the transfer structure.

[0009] To inspect and/or replace the liners as described, it is a requirement to have maintenance personnel gain access to the inside of the transfer chute to inspect and replace if required, as well as have personnel on the outside to loosen / fasten the liner after adjustment / replacement. Quite often, gaining access to the inside of the transfer chute requires a confined space permit. These are hazardous environments, with limited points to enter/exit, and quite often cramped for space. They are certainly not ideal for carrying out manual handling and replacing / adjusting worn liners.

[0010] Accordingly, it would be desirable to improve the maintainability of these systems, by: • eliminating the need to enter the inside of the transfer chute. • eliminating the need to have at least two people to adjust / replace a wear liner. • prevent the wear liner from inadvertantly dropping onto the conveyor belt at least during maintenance or otherwise in operation causing damage.

[0011] The below products / companies are known for providing conveyor skirt solutions: • H&B Mining • WAMS WAMSkirt • EZ Conveyor Solutions (Nelson Williams Linings Inc.) • Martin Engineering • ASGCO Complete Conveyor Solutions • CQMS Razer - Sure Clamp • Kinder - K Quick Clamp

[0012] H&B Mining provides an "Easy maintenance skirt panel" that is disclosed in granted Australian Patent No. AU-B 199716520. The H&B Mining system is also disclosed at http://www.handbmining.com.au/segmented-easy-maintenance-skirt/. The described system of H&B Mining allows all maintenance to occur externally. It incorporates a bracket allowing for the height adjustment of the skirt liner relative to the conveyor belt, as well as ability to remove the combined bracket and liner, and a clamping mechanism to clamp the dust seal in place. According to AU-B 199716520 on either side of a conveyor belt, there is provided a skirt panel for preventing the loss of material from either side of the conveyor belt during loading of material thereon. The skirt panel includes a side frame supporting a plurality of cover panels and a plurality of wear plates. The wear plates provide side walls for the trough of the conveyor belt during the loading procedure. A small gap is provided between the wear plates and the conveyor belt. Because material can escape through this gap, a rubber skirt is also provided on either side of the conveyor belt. Each skirt rests against the peripheral edge surface of the conveyor belt and prevents material from escaping through the gap. Cover panels are each located over an opening in the side frame. A plurality of openings are provided along an elongate extent of the side frame to thereby allow access to the inside of the side panel along it's entire length. The side frame therefore provides a "lattice" frame with the openings in the lattice frame being closed by the cover panels. Because both the cover panels and the skirt can be readily removed, this facilitates maintenance of the conveyor system, and in particular facilitates adjustment and/or removal of the wear plates. Removal of one of the cover panels and the skirt allows ready access to both sides of the wear plate. A series of bolts mounts the wear plate onto the side frame. The bolts can be located within vertically aligned slotted apertures within the side frame to enable vertical adjustment of the position of the wear plate. Ready access can therefore be obtained to both sides of the wear plate once the cover panel and the skirt is removed. The wear plate can also be readily removed through the opening through the side frame once the cover panel is removed. A clamping arrangement according to AU-B 199716520 clamps the skirt in position. However, when removing the liner in the H&B Mining system there is a risk that it may drop onto the belt and cause damage. Manual handling issues are the main problem when considering the maintenacen of skirt liners and H&B liners and frames are very heavy. In contrast, it is considered that dropping liners a small distance onto a stationary belt isnt usually an issue.

[0013] Another skirt liner system is disclosed by WAMS WAMSkirt in International Patent Application Publ No: WO 2007/053883 Al. The system is also described at http://www.wams.com.au/ProductsPages/WAMskirt.htm. A skirt liner system is disclosed in which every second panel, with liner fixed thereto, is removable, giving access to the adjacent/alernate liner which is fixed to a permanently fixed panel. According to W02007/053883, in use, first liner plates are bolted to a support body, and the alternate second liner plates are bolted to the plate supports. With the support members removed, access to the first and alternate second liner plates can be achieved by having a fitter insert their hands in through apertures left by the absence of the support. This, however, does not allow for each and every liner panel to be accessed, removed and/or adjusted. Again, as with the H&B liners, the liner and frame needs to be lifted away which is heavy, and access to the remaining liner is limited and/or difficult.

[0014] EZ Conveyor Solutions (Nelson Williams Linings Inc.) provides a system which is described at http://www.ezconveyorsolutions.com/ and further disclosed in Australian Patent No: AU-B 2003262226 entitled "Pivotable conveyor skirt board assembly". This system does not allow for each liner to be independently accessed and also includes a risk of having a liner falling onto the conveyor belt during its adjustment or access. The non-modular nature of the system means that pivoting the skirt board assembly involves a large rotating mass that may be difficult to safely operate posing an increased risk of pinching and the like during manual handling. Also, the design of this system presents difficulties with access to the liner fastening bolts/nuts and liner height adjusters.

[0015] Further examples of related art systems are as follows. Martin Engineering offer skirt liner systems with modular sections, externally removable liners and dust sealing systems, which are described at http://www.martin-eng.com/products/transfer point/martin-chute-structure-.html. One particualr system offered by Martin Engineering is described in US patent No. 5,048,669 (Swinderman) in which the frame must be removed to access the liner. As skirt maintenace requires the conveyor to stop, this adds to the downtime. In the Swinderman system, adjusting the liner height further requires shims which are difficult to install. ASGCO Skirtboard System disclose a skirt system in US Patent No: 5154280 and described further at http://www.asgco.com/conveyor products/conveyor-skirting-and-dust-control/. CQMS Razer provide a "Sure Clamp" system described at http://www.cqmsrazer.com/conveyor-skirting-systems/, which has a clamping method for a dust seal. Kinder provide a "K Quick Clamp that is described at http://www.kinder.com.au/k-quick-clamp-skirting-system/and, which also involves a clamping method for dust seal.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0016] It is an object of the embodiments described herein to overcome or alleviate at least one of the above noted drawbacks of related art systems or to at least provide a useful alternative to related art systems.

[0017] In a first aspect of embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a skirt liner system for a materials transfer structure comprising: a plurality of main frame modules releasably mounted to a mounting flange of the materials transfer structure where each main frame module comprises a skirt liner carrier adapted for supporting a skirt liner upon a first face of the skirt liner carrier and a skirt liner retainer upon a second face of the skirt liner carrier for retaining the skirt liner upon the first face of the skirt liner carrier; wherein each skirt liner carrier is adapted for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module by direct pivotal attachment between adjacent main frame modules.

[0018] Preferably, the skirt liner carrier is pivotally attached directly to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module. Alternatively, the skirt liner carrier is attached to the materials transfer structure for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module.

[0019] In preferred embodiments, the plurality of main frame modules are releasably mounted to the mounting flange of the materials transfer structure.

[0020] In one particular embodiment described herein there is provided a skirt liner system for a materials transfer structure comprising: a plurality of main frame modules releasably mounted to a mounting flange of the materials transfer structure where each main frame module comprises a skirt liner carrier adapted for supporting a skirt liner upon a first face of the skirt liner carrier and a skirt liner retainer upon a second face of the skirt liner carrier for retaining the skirt liner upon the first face of the skirt liner carrier; wherein the skirt liner carrier is pivotally attached directly to a skirt liner carrier of an adjacent main frame module.

[0021] Each skirt liner may be accessed externally from the materials transfer structure for removal, replacement and maintenance.

[0022] The skirt liner retainer preferably comprises adjustment means for adjusting the height of its respective skirt liner relative to a conveyor belt of the materials transfer structure.

[0023] The skirt liner carriers may be releasably fixed to the mounting flange of the materials transfer structure.

[0024] The direct pivotal attachment between skirt liner carriers may comprise a pivot bolt. Preferably, the pivot bolt is releasable.

[0025] The skirt liner may comprise detent fastenings for engaging the skirt liner retainer through the skirt liner carrier.

[0026] The main frame module may further comprise a dust seal clamp operatively connected to the direct pivotal attachment between skirt liner carriers for engaging and clamping a dust seal that runs the length of the transfer structure.

[0027] The main frame module may further comprise a clamp fastening operatively associated with the dust seal clamp for fastening the dust seal against the skirt liner carrier.

[0028] In another aspect of embodiments described herein there is provided a main frame module adapted for releasable mounting to a materials transfer structure, the main frame module comprising: a skirt liner carrier adapted for supporting a skirt liner upon a first face of the skirt liner carrier and a skirt liner retainer upon a second face of the skirt liner carrier for retaining the skirt liner upon the first face of the skirt liner carrier; wherein the skirt liner carrier is adapted for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module releasably mounted to the materials transfer structure by direct pivotal attachment between adjacent main frame modules.

[0029] Other aspects and preferred forms are disclosed in the specification and/or defined in the appended claims, forming a part of the description of the invention.

[0030] In essence, embodiments of the present invention stem from the realization that transfer chutes are designed for product/ore flow, making access to service liners from the inside confined and often difficult. They are rarely designed with space for maintenance workers to access or work in. So, it was evident there was need for a new design providing for safer maintenance practices. It is considered that providing adjacent pivotal attachment between and with respect to skirt liner carriers has achieved this result.

[0031] Advantages provided by the present invention comprise the following:

• Elimination of a need for personnel to enter a hazardous space, the inside of the transfer chute, to carry out skirt liner inspections / adjustments / replacements.

• Eliminating a requirement to have personnel both on the inside and the outside of the skirt liner system to replace / adjust the skirt liners. • Provision of a mechanism to prevent skirt liners from inadvertently dropping onto the conveyor belt causing damage to the belt. • Integration of a sealing function, for example with the inclusion of an integrated rubber seal clamp. • Each skirt / skirt liner can be accessed independently.

[0032] Further scope of applicability of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Further disclosure, objects, advantages and aspects of preferred and other embodiments of the present invention may be better understood by those skilled in the relevant art by reference to the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the disclosure herein, and in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cut-away cross section of a materials transfer structure incorporating a conveyor belt and skirt liner system constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a rear view of a materials transfer structure incorporating a plurality of adjacent main frame modules showing a dust seal clamped by a dust seal clamp of each main frame module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a cut-away portion of a materials transfer structure incorporating a conveyor belt and skirt liner system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 4a and 4b are a rear plan view and perspective view, respectively, of a main frame module of the materials transfer structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 is a perspective illustration showing a main frame module of the materials transfer structure comprising a skirt liner carrier and skirt liner retainer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a rear plan view of the main frame module shown in Figure 5 which illustrates a level adjuster in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 7a and 7b are a rear plan view and perspective view, respectively, corresponding to those of figures 5 and 6 of a main frame module of the materials transfer structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 8a and 8b are rear plan views of a main frame module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention illustrating the adjustment of a skirt retainer for adjusting the height of a skirt liner with respect to a conveyor belt;

Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a cut-away cross section of a materials transfer structure incorporating a conveyor belt and skirt liner system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 a perspective view of a cut-away portion of a materials transfer structure corresponding to that of Figure 9 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the main frame module from the embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, illustrating a dust seal clamping arrangement;

Figures 12 and 13 are perspective views respectively of three interconnected main frame modules illustrating the ability to pivotally displace one main frame module relative to the transfer structure made possible by embodiments of the invention, and also show a rotation limiting mechanism;

Figures 14 and 15 are rear perspective and plan views, respectively, of a main frame module showing a skirt liner retainer structure according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 16 is an overhead view of a main frame module and skirt liner illustrating a vertical tracking interlock mechanism to maintain vertical alignment of the skirt liner;

Figures 17 and 18 are rear perspective and end cross-sectional views of a conveyor with a skirt liner system according to an embodiment of the invention illustrating pivotal access for maintenance of a skirt liner in situ; and

Figures 19, 20 and 21 are rear plan, side and side cross-sectional views, respectively, of a main frame module including an alternative dust seal clamp design in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figures 22, 23 and 24 are rear plan, side cross sectional and rear perspective views, respectively, of a main frame module comprising an alternative dust seal clamping arrangement according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 25 and 26 are rear perspective and rear plan views, respectively, of a main frame module according to still another embodiment of the present invention comprising skirt adjustment means for securing and retaining skirt liners and dust seals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Conveyor skirt liners are used on the majority, if not all, mine ore handling plants and also ports. This is a large market that has had the above issues relating to use, wear and maintenance of liners for some time, and is actively pursuing a better solution. Embodiments described hereafter address these issues with a solution according to the present invention.

[0035] A materials transfer structure, indicated generally at 10, comprises a length of conveyor with a skirt liner system according to a first embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figure 1. The conveyor belt 9 in use moves longitudinally relative to a fixed portion of the transfer structure 10 to convey material such as, for example, mineral ores from one location to another. The ores are carried by the belt 9 between two sets of opposing skirt liners 7 which are plates constructed from abrasion resistant material. The skirt liners 7 are held in place by a skirt liner system that is described in detail hereinbelow with reference to accompanying drawings.

[0036] Referring particularly to Figures 1 to 3, a skirt liner system according to a first embodiment of the present invention is made up as follows. A transfer structure 10 comprises a mounting flange 1 which forms a permanent part of the transfer structure 10. Individual main frame modules 20, most clearly shown in Figures 12 and 13 and comprising skirt liner carriers 2, are releasably mounted and/or releasably fixed to the mounting flange 1 with fasteners 3 such as bolts.

[0037] Accordingly, skirt liner carriers 2 are releasably fixed to the mounting flange 1 as well as being connected either directly to each other adjacently along the length of the conveyor transfer with a lower pivot bolt or detent pin fastener 4 or alternatively, each skirt liner carrier 2 is attached to the materials transfer structure 10 for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier 2 of at least one adjacent main frame module 20. In this respect, each skirt liner carrier 2 may be pivotally connected directly to a skirt liner carrier 2 of an adjacent main frame module 20 or, each skirt liner carrier 2 may be pivotally connected or attached to the transfer structure 10 such as for example a dividing portion (not shown) projecting downwardly from the above mounting flange 1 between adjacent main frame modules or indirectly pivotally connected to adjacent skirt liner carriers 2 through dividing portions of the transfer structure (not shown).

[0038] Each skirt liner carrier 2 supports a skirt liner 7 which is an abrasion resistant material to protect the carrier/structure from wear, assist in centrally loading conveyed material on the conveyor belt 9, contain spillage, and control dust at the transfer of material in the transfer structure 10. Detent fastenings 7a are incorporated in the skirt liner 7 for engaging with the skirt liner carrier 2. Preferably the detent fastenings are bolts or studs for the skirt liner but can be any appropriate fastening as would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art.

[0039] A skirt liner retainer 6 is provided for each skirt liner carrier 2. The skirt liner retainer 6 has a skirt liner 7 fastened thereto through its respective skirt liner carrier 2 with the aid of detent fastenings 7a and, when fastened, clamps the skirt liner retainer 6 and skirt liner 7 to the carrier 2. An adjustment bolt 8 in the centre of the skirt liner retainer 6 couples the skirt liner retainer to the skirt liner carrier 2 and allows for adjustment of the vertical position of the skirt liner 7 relative to the conveyor belt 9. It also prevents the skirt liner 7 from inadvertently falling onto the belt 9 if the skirt liner bolts 7a become loose. The adjustment means 8 may be an adjustable fastener other than a bolt as would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art.

[0040] Figures 4 to 8 are various views of a main frame module 20 of the skirt liner system, which comprises generally a skirt liner carrier 2, skirt liner retainer 6 including adjustment means 8. The main frame module 20 is constructed to be relatively lightweight, for example of the order of 6 -- 7kg. The carrier 2 has a pair of parallel vertical slots 111 and the retainer 6 has a pair of holes that align with the slots. When a skirt liner 7 is attached to the carrier the detent fastenings 7a, for example threaded bolts which project from the rear of the skirt liner, extend through the slots and retainer holes and are secured, for example, with corresponding nuts. The retainer 6 is attached to the carrier 2 by the adjustment bolt 8.

[0041] Figures 6 and 7a, in particular, show a rear plan view of the skirt liner system indicating the level adjustment provided by the adjustment bolt 8. The embodiments illustrated may be suitable for use with skirt liners having dimensions of about 300mm. However, the system of embodiments of the present invention may be custom made for any conveyor or materials transfer application as would be understood by the person skilled in the art.

[0042] When the fastenings 7a are tight the skirt liner is fixed relative to the carrier. When the liner bolts/studs 7a are loosened, the weight of the liner is held by bolt 8. As seen in Figures 8a and 8b, the vertical position of the retainer and skirt liner can then be adjusted by use of the nuts 8a, 8b. For example, as the nuts 8a, 8b on bolt 8 (adjustment and locking) are wound out/down, the skirt liner drops. Once the desired height is set the nuts 8a, 8b on bolt 8 can be locked together, and liner bolts/studs 7a tightened. Figure 8a shows the top of adjustment position and Figure 8b shows the liner adjusted down to a bottom position. The elongated adjustment apertures 111 permit such positional height adjustment of the retainer and skirt liner, which can then be fixed in place by tightening the liner bolts/studs 7a. This allows fine and controlled level adjustment of each skirt liner relative to the conveyor belt.

[0043] Referring again to Figures 1 to 3, a dust seal 11 runs the length of the conveyor transfer structure 10 to contain spillage and dust within the transfer. Seal clamps 12 are positioned over the pivot bolts 4 and then by tightening the clamp fastening, for example bolt 12a, this clamps the dust seal 11 against the skirt liner carrier 2.

[0044] Figures 9, 10 and 11 show another embodiment of the present invention where like components of the skirt liner system previously described are given like reference numerals. Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a length of the conveyor with a plurality of adjoining skirt liners and carriers in cross sectional perspective view, whilst Figure 11 shows a single main frame module in isolation in rear perspective view.

[0045] In this embodiment the dust seal 11 is clamped with a seal clamp 12 that has the clamp fastening 12a being presented in any suitable form, for example as a wedge lock in Figure 11. Preferably, the seal clamps 12 engage or hook to the lower pivot bolts 4. The seal clamp in each case is provided as an integrated component for the main frame module. In certain embodiments the seal clamp has a mass of approximately 1kg.

[0046] In use, the skirt liner carriers 2 may be released from their mounted fixings to the mounting flange 1 by unfastening fasteners 3. This then allows for the individual skirt liner carrier 2 to be pivotally moveable about a pivot point provided preferably by pivot bolt 4, which serves to connect to adjacent skirt liner carriers. If seal clamps 12 are engaged with the skirt liner carrier 2, these are disengaged by releasing the clamp fastening 12a prior to pivoting the skirt liner carrier 2. Upon pivoting the skirt liner carrier 2 from a substantially vertical disposition to a substantially horizontal position the skirt liner 7 can be accessed from a direction external to the conveyor 9 itself, thus obviating the need for confined space entry. The skirt liner 7 can also be easily removed from the transfer structure 10 by disengaging the detent fastening 7a which will allow for removal or adjustment of the skirt liner 7.

[0047] A skirt liner carrier system constructed according to another embodiment of the invention is shown in various views in Figures 12 to 21, illustrating some additional features.

[0048] In Figures 12 and 13 can be seen three interconnected main frame modules 20 illustrated from different perspectives and isolated from the conveyor transfer structure 10. The centre module 20 is shown pivoted to a horizontal position, and an enlarged view of the pivoting connection on each side of the centre module is also shown. In this embodiment a frame interlock mechanism is implemented which has the effect of limiting pivotal movement of the module to 90 degrees. The frame interlock mechanism includes an interlock tab 14 which pivots with one module relative to the adjacent module. When the pivotal movement of the module reaches 90 degrees the interlock tab 14 abuts against a portion of the carrier 2 of the fixed module, preventing further rotation (Figure 12). The horizontal position of the centre module as shown can be considered to be the "maintenance" position, permitting replacement of the corresponding skirt liner (not shown in these drawings) to be carried out.

[0049] Figures 14, 15 and 16 illustrate some other variations to the skirt liner system described above. This includes an adjustment bolt retaining device 15 that is fitted to the head of the adjustment bolt 8 once the desired adjustment position has been achieved, best seen in Figure 14. This retaining device 15, which may be in the form of a wheel nut indicator as shown, prevents unwanted rotation of the adjustment bolt 8 when the conveyor is in service. For ease of use, the nut 8c that engages adjustment bolt 8 in this embodiment is held by the retainer bracket 6. This arrangement enables the skirt liner height to be adjusted using a single tool externally from the materials transfer structure and with the skirt liner in situ.

[0050] Also, in this embodiment the adjustment apertures 111, best seen in Figure 15, are in the shape of keyway holes having an enlarged opening at the top and a lower elongate slot. The diameter of the upper opening is large enough for the nut and washer of the skirt liner fastener 7a to pass through, whilst the lower slot dimension will only permit passage of the fastener bolt/stud 7a. Furthermore, the retainer bracket 6 is formed with cradle recesses to receive the skirt liner fasteners, rather than holes as previously described.

[0051] This construction allows for easier maintenance and replacement of the skirt liner 7. As can be seen from Figures 17 and 18, when the module is in the maintenance position, the low pivot point results in a low frame to belt clearance which can make access to the skirt liner fasteners 7a difficult. However, with the keyway hole and cradle retainer, instead of having to remove the nut and washer from each skirt liner bolt once the module is in the maintenance position, the nut only needs to be loosened before the module is rotated into the maintenance position. The keyway hole has been designed to allow the nut and washer to pass through. When the nut is loosened and the module rotated to the maintenance position (horizontal) the liner 7 can be slid out toward the operator, and lifted up and away from the conveyor without the need to remove any nuts or washers. Furthermore, the vertical adjuster (retainer bracket 6) has been designed so that the operator cannot lift the skirt liner into the keyway opening when the module is vertical.

[0052] Figure 16 shows the carrier 2 and liner 7 in overhead plan view from above. This drawing illustrates the implementation of inter-fitting grooves and ridges 15a, 15b formed on the side edges of the liner and carrier, respectively. The inverse arrangement where grooves and ridges 15a, 15b are formed on the side edges of the carrier and liner, respectively, is also envisaged as would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art. This feature assists in maintaining alignment of the liner 7 relative to the carrier 2 at installation as well as during and following positional adjustment.

[0053] Figures 19, 20 and 21 are rear plan, side and side cross-sectional views, respectively, of a main frame module including an alternative dust seal clamp design. In this embodiment the dust seal clamp 12 is a separate part that is attached to the carrier 2 with a central bolt 12a. When the bolt 12a is tightened to the carrier it applies a force to the dust seal clamping area 13 in order to hold a rubber dust seal in place.

[0054] With reference to Figures 22 to 26 an alternate clamp design allows for tool free maintenance/replacement of a skirting system. Figure 22 is a rear plan view of a main frame module comprising a rubber skirt clamp 22. Figure 23 is a cross sectional view of the main frame module of Figure 22 taken along the line A-A. A handle 23 is provided for use with the clamp 22 and is lifted to lock the rubber skirt in place within the skirt clamping area 230. Removing or obviating the use of the bolt 12a as shown in the previous example illustrated in Figure 21 from the clamp design can also reduce maintenance time to replace the rubber skirt. A locking pin 24a provision is included to ensure handle 23 cannot be accidentally released. The clamping force can be adjusted as shown in Figure 24 by use of adjustable clamping force provided through use of tensioners 24. The previous adjustment also allows for a wide range of dust seal or rubber skirt thicknesses as the clamp depth is adjustable.

[0055] Figure 25 is a rear perspective view of an example main frame module showing an adjustment bolt retainer 15 that is used to stop unwanted movement during operation of the transfer structure. Again, as previously described, vertical adjustment of the associated skirt liner is achieved through use of adjustment bolt 8.

[0056] Figure 26 is a rear plan view of a main frame module where apart from the previously described keyway apertures 111 for mounting wear liners or skirt liners there is also clearly shown a retainer 6 comprising an adjustment bracket with cradle formations to hold liner bolts/studs 7a. Further, Figure 26 shows a clamp locator 260 that may be utilised for positioning the rubber skirt clamp 22 of Figures 22 to 24.

[0057] The skirt liner system that has been described hereinabove has a number of features that provide advantageous effect, including: • A modular design so that each skirt / skirt liner can be accessed independently. • Each main frame module can be independently pivoted to a maintenance position, eliminating the need for personnel to enter a hazardous space, the inside of the transfer chute, to carry out skirt liner inspections / adjustments / replacements. • A skirt liner fastening arrangement that eliminates the need for the operator to reach into confined locations with limited access for liner replacement. • Provision of a mechanism to prevent skirt liners from inadvertently dropping onto the conveyor belt causing damage to the belt. • A skirt liner height adjustment mechanism that can be operated with a single tool whilst in situ and ensuring vertical alignment of the skirt liner. • Integration of a sealing function, for example with the inclusion of an integrated rubber seal clamp.

[0058] While this invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modification(s). This application is intended to cover any variations uses or adaptations of the invention following in general, the principles of the invention and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth.

[0059] As the present invention may be embodied in several forms without departing from the spirit of the essential characteristics of the invention, it should be understood that the above described embodiments are not to limit the present invention unless otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive.

[0060] Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the invention and appended claims. Therefore, the specific embodiments are to be understood to be illustrative of the many ways in which the principles of the present invention may be practiced. In the following claims, means-plus function clauses are intended to cover structures as performing the defined function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. For example, although a nail and a screw may not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface to secure wooden parts together, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw are equivalent structures.

[0061] "Comprises/comprising" and "includes/including" when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. Thus, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words 'comprise', 'comprising', 'includes', 'including'and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

Claims (15)

1. A skirt liner system for a materials transfer structure comprising a plurality of main frame modules releasably mounted to a mounting flange of the materials transfer structure where each main frame module comprises a skirt liner carrier adapted for supporting a skirt liner upon a first face of the skirt liner carrier and a skirt liner retainer upon a second face of the skirt liner carrier for retaining the skirt liner upon the first face of the skirt liner carrier; wherein each skirt liner carrier is adapted for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module by direct pivotal attachment between adjacent main frame modules.

2. A skirt liner system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the skirt liner carrier is attached to the materials transfer structure for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module.

3. A skirt liner system as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the skirt liner retainer comprises adjustment means for adjusting the height of its respective skirt liner relative to a conveyor belt of the materials transfer structure.

4. A skirt liner system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the skirt liner carriers are releasably fixed to the mounting flange of the materials transfer structure.

5. A skirt liner system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the direct pivotal attachment between adjacent main frame modules comprises a pivot bolt.

6. A skirt liner system as claimed in claim 5 wherein the pivot bolt is releasable.

7. A skirt liner system as claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein the skirt liner comprises detent fastenings for engaging the skirt liner retainer through the skirt liner carrier.

8. A skirt liner system as claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein the main frame module further comprises a dust seal clamp positioned over the attachment of the skirt liner carrier for engaging and clamping a dust seal that runs the length of the transfer structure.

9. A skirt liner system as claimed in claim 8 wherein the main frame module further comprises a clamp fastening operatively associated with the dust seal clamp for fastening the dust seal against the skirt liner carrier.

10. A skirt liner system as claimed in claim 9 wherein the clamp fastening allows for a range of dust seal thicknesses and comprises one or a combination of: a handle for tool free operation; at least one bolt; tensioners for adjusting clamping force.

11. A skirt liner system as claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein each skirt liner is accessible externally from the materials transfer structure for removal, replacement and maintenance.

12. A skirt liner system as claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein grooves and/or ridges are formed on one or more of the skirt liner carrier and the skirt liner to maintain alignment of the skirt liner relative to the skirt liner carrier.

13. A main frame module adapted for releasable mounting to a materials transfer structure, each main frame module comprising: a skirt liner carrier adapted for supporting a skirt liner upon a first face of the skirt liner carrier and a skirt liner retainer upon a second face of the skirt liner carrier for retaining the skirt liner upon the first face of the skirt liner carrier; wherein the skirt liner carrier is adapted for pivotal movement with respect to a skirt liner carrier of at least one adjacent main frame module releasably mounted to the materials transfer structure by direct pivotal attachment between adjacent main frame modules.

14. A skirt liner of a materials transfer structure adapted for a skirt liner system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A skirt liner of a materials transfer structure adapted for operative association with a main frame module as claimed in claim 13.