Mining Tool Replacement Using Light-Plane Distance Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mining vehicles face challenges in accurately and efficiently replacing mining tools, particularly in determining the precise alignment and distance for tool exchange, especially in confined underground environments.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a light source to emit light along a predetermined plane at a reference distance from the mining tool magazine, combined with visual data processing to determine the distance and control the replacement of mining tools based on illumination detection of a predetermined portion of the tool or vehicle, enabling precise alignment and exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual methods are used to determine alignment and distance for tool replacement, then operational flexibility is maintained, but measurement precision and replacement accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical measurement system. A light source emits light along a reference plane, and a camera captures images to automatically calculate the distance between the mining tool and magazine, eliminating the need for manual measurement while improving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a light source as an intermediary element that projects a reference plane between the mining tool and magazine. This light plane serves as a visual reference that enables the camera to accurately determine distance and alignment without direct physical contact or complex mechanical gauges.
2Productivity
If automated tool replacement is implemented, then productivity increases, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring alignment and distance worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the contrast between the light plane and the surrounding environment to create a visually detectable reference. The illuminated plane provides a clear visual marker that the camera can easily distinguish and use for automated alignment and distance calculation, simplifying the detection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera creates a digital copy (image) of the physical scene including the light plane and mining tool positions. This digital representation is then processed to automatically determine alignment and distance, enabling automated control without requiring complex physical measurement devices.
3Measurement precision
If visual data processing is used to determine distance, then measurement precision improves, but the loss of time for data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system processes only the essential visual information needed for distance determination - specifically analyzing the position of the light plane and mining tool relative to each other. By focusing on only the critical features rather than processing the entire image comprehensively, the system achieves accurate measurements with minimal processing time.
4Manufacturing precision
If the light source emits light along a plane at reference distance, then alignment accuracy improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source emits light along a specific plane at a predetermined reference distance, creating illumination only where needed for measurement. This localized lighting approach provides sufficient alignment precision for the measurement task while consuming minimal energy compared to omnidirectional lighting.
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
Enables accurate and efficient replacement of mining tools by monitoring distance and movement, improving operational efficiency and reducing manual intervention in underground mining operations.
Implementation Method 1
a light source is configured to emit light along a plane at a predetermined reference distance to the mining tool magazine
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus may control movement of a mining tool of a mining vehicle towards a mining tool magazine, wherein a light source is configured to emit light along a plane at a predetermined reference distance to the mining tool magazine; receive visual data comprising a representation of the mining tool; determine a distance between the mining tool and the mining tool magazine based on detecting, based on the visual data, illumination of a predetermined portion of the mining tool or the mining vehicle by the emitted light; monitor the distance between the mining tool and the mining tool magazine based on movement of the mining tool and/or the mining vehicle; and control replacement of at least a distal portion of the mining tool by another mining tool stored in the mining tool magazine based on the monitoring of the distance between the mining tool and the mining tool magazine.