Underground Mining Machine Automation System for Operator Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote control systems for machines in mining and earth-moving industries lack advanced automation and environment monitoring capabilities, particularly in challenging environments like underground mines, where low tunnel clearances and ground stability concerns pose safety risks and require more efficient and precise control.
Innovation Solution
A Machine Automation System (MAS) that includes vehicle electronic control modules, a local transceiver, an Ethernet LAN, a controller area network, an automation electronic control module, and an environment monitoring system, which enables operative communication and data transfer between various components to receive and transmit input control signals, positioning data, and video data for autonomous or semi-autonomous machine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a machine is operated manually in underground mines, then the operator can directly control the machine, but the operator is exposed to safety risks from low tunnel clearances and ground stability concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Remote Operator Station (ROS) as an intermediary device that allows operators to control mining machines from a safe distance. The ROS transmits control signals to the machine via transceivers, enabling remote operation without direct physical presence in hazardous underground environments. This mediator system resolves the contradiction by maintaining operator safety while preserving operational capability.
2Reliability
If remote control systems are implemented, then operator safety is improved, but control precision and automation capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensors on the mining machine continuously monitor operational parameters, machine status, and environmental conditions. This data is transmitted back to the ROS, enabling the operator to make informed control decisions. The feedback loop enhances automation capability by providing real-time information while maintaining operator safety through remote operation.
3Loss of information
If environment monitoring systems are integrated, then operational awareness is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple monitoring functions into a unified environment monitoring system that tracks ground stability, tunnel conditions, and machine status through various sensors. This multi-functional system consolidates what would otherwise be separate monitoring devices, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing environmental awareness and operational safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A MAS for a machine that includes an implement, and a related method of controlling such machine is provided. The MAS may comprise a plurality of Vehicle ECMs, a local transceiver, an Ethernet LAN, a first CAN, an AECM, an environment monitoring system and an RSM. The AECM is configured to generate output control signals based, at least in part, on input from the environment monitoring system, and to transmit the output control signals to at least one of the Vehicle ECMs, wherein the output control signals control an operation of the machine. The MAS is configured to execute semi-autonomous functions of the machine based on input from the environment monitoring system.