Steering System for Self-Propelled Conveyor Train Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor systems for open pit mines lack an efficient and reliable steering system to maintain the position of a movable conveyor train, particularly for delivering ore from mining machines to a conveyor system, which is crucial for mining efficiency and reducing noise and dust.
Innovation Solution
A hitch apparatus that connects a self-propelled trailing vehicle to a self-propelled leading vehicle, incorporating angle sensors and distance sensors to provide precise positioning data to a steering system, allowing for controlled movement and alignment of conveyor vehicles in a train configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional hitch apparatus is used to connect conveyor vehicles, then the vehicles can be connected and moved, but the position and alignment of the trailing vehicle relative to the leading vehicle cannot be precisely measured or controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical connection between vehicles, measurement of horizontal angle through a first angle sensor, measurement of vertical angle through a second angle sensor, and measurement of distance through a distance sensor. This multi-functional design allows precise position measurement without adding separate measurement devices, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the connection function and measurement function into a single integrated hitch apparatus. The angle sensors and distance sensor are incorporated into the hitch assembly itself, merging the mechanical connection structure with the measurement system. This integration allows the same physical structure to serve both connection and precise positioning purposes.
2Extent of automation
If angle sensors and distance sensors are added to the hitch apparatus to enable precise positioning, then the steering control is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch apparatus incorporates angle sensors and distance sensor that continuously measure the position and orientation of the trailing vehicle relative to the leading vehicle. These measurements are fed back to the control system, which automatically adjusts the steering of the trailing vehicle to maintain desired alignment and position. This feedback mechanism enables automated steering control without requiring complex manual intervention systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailing vehicle's steering system uses the sensor data from the hitch apparatus to automatically correct its own position and alignment. The system is self-regulating, using the measured deviations to generate appropriate steering commands without external intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control infrastructure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a movable conveyor system is used instead of fixed conveyor systems, then noise and dust are reduced and capital cost is lowered, but the ability to maintain precise position and alignment during movement is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment mechanisms with an electronic sensor and control system. Instead of using mechanical linkages or physical guides to maintain alignment, the system uses angle sensors and distance sensors to electronically detect position deviations and automatically corrects them through controlled steering adjustments. This substitution maintains reliability while enabling the flexibility of movable conveyor systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system, method, and computer-readable medium for controlling a steerable, self-propelled vehicle for travelling in an end-to-end series of steerable, self-propelled vehicles, the vehicle including a plurality of individually controllable propelling devices connected at a generally vertical pivot to an axle of the vehicle. The steering system includes: an angle sensor for detecting an inter-vehicle angular position between two of the vehicles and providing a corresponding signal indicative thereof; a distance sensor for detecting an inter-vehicle distance between two of the vehicles and providing a corresponding signal indicative thereof; and a controller system. The controller system is configured to: receive the signals from the angle sensor and the distance sensor, control a speed of each propelling device based on the inter-vehicle distance, and control an angle of each propelling device based on the inter-vehicle angular position.