Method and apparatus for a plasma-hydraulic continuous excavation system
US6761416B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21C37/18
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A plasma-hydraulic excavation system suitable for use in connection with mining operations is provided. According to the system, one or more groups of plasma-hydraulic projectors that include a reflector and a pair of electrodes are used to break an area of rock. The projectors include a connection box within which high voltage connections between the electrodes of the projector and a power supply cable may be made. Groups of projectors and supporting componentry may be housed within a common frame, to form an excavation module. Electrode insulators interconnected to the projector reflector in compression are also disclosed. A trigger circuit providing a voltage transformer for each projector in a group of projectors is utilized in connection with a series connected current source circuit to provide for the ignition of the projectors. According to an embodiment of the invention, multiple groups of projectors may be operated using a single current control switch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.