Mining Shovel Compositional Sensors for Real-Time Material Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-mine batch mineral sorting devices face limitations in efficiently sorting and directing mining material based on its composition, which hinders optimal operation in mining environments.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a mining shovel with compositional sensors, including inward-facing sensors on the bucket, allows for real-time analysis of material composition. This data is processed to determine the appropriate destination for the material, with instructions sent to the mining shovel operator and/or haul truck for efficient sorting and transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If in-mine batch mineral sensing and classification is implemented, then sorting effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and operational reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sorting systems with electromagnetic sensing technology. Sensors mounted on the shovel bucket detect mineral composition, density, and other properties using electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for complex mechanical classification mechanisms while achieving high sorting effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control system as an intermediary between sensing and sorting actions. The control system processes sensor data in real-time and provides guidance to operators or automated systems, enabling reliable decision-making about material sorting without requiring complex direct mechanical coupling.
2Measurement precision
If real-time compositional analysis is performed, then sorting precision is improved, but measurement capability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into multiple specialized sensors mounted on the shovel bucket, each detecting specific material properties such as composition, density, or moisture content. This segmentation allows each sensor to be optimized for its specific measurement task, achieving high precision without requiring a single overly complex measurement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multi-functional sensors that can detect multiple material properties simultaneously. These sensors are designed to measure various compositional parameters using different physical principles, reducing the overall measurement capability requirements while maintaining high sorting precision through integrated data analysis.
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
This solution enables precise and efficient sorting of mining materials, allowing for optimal utilization of mining resources and reducing operational inefficiencies by ensuring that materials are directed to the correct destinations based on their composition.
Implementation Method 1
x-ray source (fluorescence or transmission)
Implementation Method 2
radiometric (radiation detector), electromagnetic (source and detector or induced potential)
Data Source
AI summary
A mining shovel with compositional sensors comprises a bucket having various inward looking sensors positioned throughout the bucket. The bucket can also have disposed thereon a control enclosure that houses processing equipment that receives and analyzes the data collected by the inward looking sensors. The mining shovel with compositional sensors can be used as part of a system to manage a mining field, including generating and transmitting instructions directing where to deposit material located in the bucket based on the data collected from the inward looking sensors positioned in the bucket.