Underground Drill Return System Wireless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydraulic return systems in underground development drills are prone to hose damage and wear on machine components due to jerky movements in hazardous environments.
Innovation Solution
An underground development drill return system utilizing front and rear limit sensors with wireless transmitters and actuators, allowing for adjustable and graded proximity activation to control the drilling arm's movement automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional hydraulic return systems are used, then automatic return function is achieved, but hydraulic hoses are easily broken and wear and tear on machine components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the hydraulic hose system from the automatic return mechanism by using a separate wireless communication system (transmitters on the drilling arm and receiver on the boom) to detect arm position and trigger return sequences, eliminating the need for hydraulic hoses that connect moving and stationary parts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the hydraulic mechanical control system with an electronic wireless communication system that uses radio frequency signals to transmit position data and control commands, substituting the mechanical-hydraulic linkage with an electronic control architecture
2Extent of automation
If conventional hydraulic return systems are used, then automatic return function is achieved, but sudden and jerky movements cause unnecessary wear and tear on machine components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback through wireless transmission of drilling arm position data from transmitters mounted on the arm to a receiver on the boom, enabling the control system to monitor position in real-time and adjust movement sequences to avoid sudden jerky motions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic control of the return sequence by using adjustable proximity thresholds and graded response levels that allow smooth transitions between drilling positions, replacing the fixed mechanical-hydraulic response with an adaptable electronic control system
3Extent of automation
If hydraulic hoses are used in hazardous environments, then automatic return control is achieved, but protection of hoses becomes difficult and hose damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vulnerable hydraulic hoses from the system by implementing wireless communication between the moving drilling arm and the stationary boom, eliminating the physical connection that requires protection from environmental hazards
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless radio frequency signals as an intermediary medium to transmit control data and position information between components, replacing the direct physical hydraulic connection with an electromagnetic field-based communication channel that is not susceptible to mechanical damage
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system reduces wear on machine components and minimizes the risk of hose damage by providing smooth and controlled movements of the drilling arm, enhancing operational reliability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
each limit sensor comprises a proximity sensor with a wireless transmitter for transmitting a limit signal upon activation of the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an underground development drill return system comprising a front limit sensor and front sensor actuator, each configured for operative mounting at opposite ends of a forward drill feeder length of a drilling arm of the drill. System also includes a rear limit sensor and rear sensor actuator, each configured for operative mounting at opposite ends of a return drill feeder length of the drilling arm. Each limit sensor comprises a proximity sensor with a wireless transmitter for transmitting a limit signal upon activation of the sensor, and each sensor actuator comprises an actuator for actuating the respective sensor when brought into proximity thereof.