Mining Machine Proximity Control at Safety Gates Without Network Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mining machines operating autonomously in isolated areas face safety risks when network connections to external safety systems are lost, leading to potential accidents due to the inability to determine their proximity to safety gates.
Innovation Solution
Equipping mining machines and safety gates with proximity detection systems that measure relative distance using radio signal strength, allowing them to slow down or stop when approaching safety gates without relying on network connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mining machines operate autonomously in isolated areas without network connection monitoring, then productivity and ease of operation are improved, but safety and reliability deteriorate due to inability to detect proximity to safety gates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously measuring distance to safety gates using radio signal strength even before network connection is lost. This allows the mining machine to already have proximity information available when network connection fails, enabling immediate safety response without waiting for connection loss detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system (radio signal strength-based distance measurement) that operates independently of the network connection. This intermediary mechanism provides a backup method for determining proximity to safety gates when the primary network-based communication system fails.
2Device complexity
If mining machines rely on network connection for safety monitoring, then device complexity is reduced, but safety and reliability worsen when network connection is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mining machine performs self-service by autonomously measuring its own distance to safety gates using onboard radio receivers and signal strength measurements. The system independently determines proximity without requiring external infrastructure, enabling it to self-monitor safety even when network connection is unavailable.
3Reliability
If proximity detection using radio signal strength is implemented, then reliability is improved by enabling operation without network connection, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and measurement systems
Solution Approach 1:
The radio signal strength measurement system serves multiple functions: it provides both distance measurement for safety gate proximity detection and can potentially be used for other communication or navigation purposes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated separate systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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
Ensures safe operation of mining machines by preventing accidents even when network connections are interrupted, enabling continuous autonomous operation.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a quantity associated with a relative distance between the mining machine and a safety gate
Data Source
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AI summary
Example embodiments related to controlling of a mining machine. An apparatus may comprise: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: measure a quantity associated with a relative distance between the mining machine and a safety gate, in response to determining that the mining machine has lost a network connection to an external safety system; and cause the mining machine to slow down or stop, in response to determining that the measured quantity is indicative of the mining machine being located within a proximity threshold from the safety gate.