Patent ID: 6672673
Filing Date: 2004-01-06
Classification: E21C,E21D

Abstract:
An apparatus for clearing a material hang-up in an essentially vertical shaft having walls which is used for moving material from a higher level to a lower level, said apparatus comprising:(1) a platform having an upper surface and a lower surface and at least two ends, wherein the platform is movable along a longitudinal direction within the shaft; (2) a remotely controllable propulsion unit affixed to the lower surface of the platform capable of propelling the platform along the longitudinal direction within the shaft and up to the hang-up; (3) an imaging unit affixed to the upper surface of the platform capable of generating an image of an upward view within the shaft, wherein the image is transmittable to a remote viewer, and wherein the image can be viewed by an operator to assist in controlling and operating the apparatus: (4) one or more extensible immobilizing units affixed to the ends of the platform, wherein the immobilizing units are remotely controllable, and wherein the immobilizing units, when activated by the operator, immobilize the platform within the shaft; (5) a remotely controllable clearing unit affixed to the platform and adapted for clearing the hang-up within the shaft; and (6) a remote controller for controlling the propulsion unit, the immobilizing units, and the clearing unit; wherein the apparatus can be controlled and operated by the operator using the remote controller at a safe distance from the shaft.